HOTEL of the week

THE LOWRY HOTEL MANCHESTER

WHERE AND WHY Famous for housing Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho, this five-star hotel sits on the River Irwell, where Salford meets Manchester city centre. The deluxe and superior king rooms are seriously luxurious but I was lucky to stay in one of the six riverside suites, where Jose is also rumoured to reside. It’s easy to see why he likes it here. With a kitchen, a huge lounge area and a massive bedroom with an indulgent chaise longue, my partner and I felt thoroughly spoiled.

ON THE MENU The River Bar is one of my favourites in the city, with incredibly friendly staff and a great ambience. It has a fabulous cocktail list. I’d recommend the hotel’s signature Trinity Bridge, a fruity martini with a shot of champagne. What’s not to love? Cocktails come with nibbles and the opportunity to celebrity-spot from famous musicians playing on the bar’s grand piano to superstar footballers trying to keep a low profile. We dined in The River Restaurant, which offers attentive service, seductive booths and beautifully presented food. I loved my loin of monkfish and my partner was similarly enthused by his cannon of spring lamb. The desserts are spectacular. The à la carte menu starts at €27 for three courses at lunch and dinner, except on Saturday nights.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE The hotel has a glossy new spa, QMS Skin, which offers great treatments. My Deep Pore Cleanse facial worked wonders. Shopaholics will find they’re perfectly positioned with Selfridges and Harvey Nichols just a short stroll across Trinity Bridge. The nightlife possibilities are endless. Go for cocktails at the beautiful Grand Pacific bar, then dine at new tapas hotspot El Gato Negro. There are great pubs nearby too, including The Briton’s Protection and The Castle.

WAKE UP CALL Prices start from €185 for a standard room and €767 for a River Suite. thelowryhotel.com VIKKI WHITE