INNSiDE by Melia, Manchester

This city centre hotel is next to the HOME arts centre, which has a cinema and theatre, and hosts temporary art exhibitions. Be sure to have a drink at Briton's Protection, one of Manchester's oldest pubs.

Deansgate-Castlefield Metrolink station and Deansgate station are less than a 5-minute walk, while Oxford Road station is less than 10 minutes away.

By car: over 2 hours from Nottingham and 4 hours 30 minutes from London. Paid parking available nearby.

By train: London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly takes around 2 hours, after which, it's a 5-minute taxi ride (or 15-minute walk) to the hotel. Book trains to Manchester.

This is a modern hotel, with clean lines and open-plan bedrooms. We loved the lobby with its artistic displays and the "doodle pillar" by illustrator Dave Draws, which depicts local attractions.

There are plenty of facilities including a gym, sauna and steam rooms. Guests can request beauty treatments from an independent company. Staff are friendly and helpful, offering a warm welcome.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Terrace
• Gym
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms and suites are open-plan and spacious with monochrome décor accented by purple feature walls. Integrated bathrooms have rain showers behind frosted glass cubicles.

Room types: Innside Room, The Studio, The Townhouse

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, tea and coffee-making facilities, TV, minibar, free Wi-Fi

First Street Bar & Kitchen is described as "Food for a Social Mood" and the outdoor terrace is a pleasant spot for a pre- or post-dinner drink (if the weather is on your side). At the weekend, enjoy breakfast with a chilled-out soundtrack from the hotel's resident DJ.

First Street Bar & Kitchen: modern European cuisine, seasonal menus. All-day dining, open daily.