Malmaison Manchester - Manchester, United Kingdom 

Friendly, warm, Mancunian welcome
Posted: Thu, Jul 24 2008
I never write reviews but I was really worried about staying at Malmaison Manchester after reading some of the previous reviews and I just had to write to say - how wrong were they!!!!! We had a great time and would definately go back. We received a warm, genuine welcome from the reception staff who were very happy to help with any queries, directions etc. All the staff we met were normal, friendly, down to earth and approachable leaving us not only with a good impression of the hotel but also the people of Manchester. Our room wasn't ready when we returned from lunch but we were automatically upgraded for our inconvenience - if you can call it that - without having to utter a word. Room service was incredibly speedy. Great location for shops, nightlife, travel to the airport and Trafford Centre really easy even by public transport and for someone who doesn't do trains/ bus normally that's saying something. If I was being picky then I'd have to agree that maybe its time to start thinking about a refurb but its definately not tatty and it would be a shame if it lost its dark, cosy edge. If you want warm, friendly and welcoming instead of harsh, sterile and flashy then you'll have a great time.

Disapointing
Posted: Tue, Jul 15 2008
As a single business traveler, I found this hotel rather pretentious and the tarts boudior styling will not be to everyones liking...a litany of low level niggles means I wont be back in a hurry! All black, red and glass, the room was very dusty on all the ledges and mirrors. Black furniture showed all the greasy marks from previous guests. There was numerous hairs on the chairs and carpets. The phone was dirty. The television had a poor picture. The bathroom is a poor design, particulary for shaving - the large sink means you are 2 feet from the mirror and the moody downlights keeps your neck in the shade. The plug didnt release the water and the toilet flush was very weak. Far more serious is the towel rail next to the toilet, on which I burnt my arm whilst using the loo. The bar/ restaurant would not serve me a simple club sandwich, unless I went to me my room to eat it. Not wanting to eat in my room I was led into the restaurant to "lepers row" - the area all the single business men were sat. Nearly 40 minutes wait for a chicken salad - rubish.

Too try hard and now tired
Posted: Mon, Jul 07 2008
We stayed in the Malmaison on a weekend break in Manchester. Location is great, close to the station, the shops and plenty of bars (and Canal St) After hearing so much about the chain I came away disappointed. The decor was over the top, and looked in need of an overhaul, too much looked frayed and old. Also our room was very small and an odd shape, being on a corner. Saying that, breakfast was great and the staff very friendly and helpful.