We’re constantly on the hunt for the very best boutique hotels across the United Kingdom. And we recently travelled north to review YOTEL Manchester Deansgate. This fast-growing hotel brand has properties from Singapore to San Francisco and prides itself on catering to the modern traveller. Find out what we thought below.

Take a look at the best boutique hotels in Manchester too.

While this stay was complimentary, all thoughts and opinions are our own.

YOTEL Manchester Deansgate review

The vibes

Yotel Manchester Deansgate lobby
The design style in the lobby is bursting with energy and colours. Photo by Jack Kirwin.

If I had to use one word to describe this hotel, it would be: buzzing. From the vibrant decor to the fact that the restaurant seating spills into the lobby, it feels like you’re in the heart of the action. Check-in and check-out computers make for a speedy entry or exit, with the friendly crew on hand should you have any needs or questions.

The communal aspect of the hotel spills into the galleys that feature on every floor. Rather than having drinks in every room, outside the lift, the galley is a space for making coffee, tea, and refilling water bottles, it’s also a spot for conversing with other guests or friends and family.

The neighbourhood

It was my first time visiting Manchester, and I’ve got to say that I’m a fan. It’s a really walkable and creative city and it feels really friendly too. Live music aficionados will want to head straight to Band on the Wall or Night and Day Cafe to catch the latest up-and-coming band. Vinyl Revival is a great record store that specialises in local music and also sells tees from Manchester heavy hitters like James and Oasis.

World-renowned Canal Street is a short walk away from the hotel, and an absolute must-visit. The colour, the costumes, the energy, is so much fun and you’re bound to find a drag show or LGBTQ+ event to tickle your fancy any night of the week.

We went all out on vintage shopping in the Northern Quarter where shop after shop offered more and more selection of pre-loved goodies. Be sure to visit Cow Vintage and Pop Boutique for high quality second-hand goods in really cool surroundings.

History buffs won’t want to sleep on sites such as the John Rylands Research Institute and Library, which is just across from the hotel. We went just as a free tour was starting and we loved learning about the lady behind this important research centre. A trip to the Manchester Cathedral is another must-do, and this handily backs onto two historic pubs: The Old Wellington and Sinclairs Oyster Bar.

A trip to the Manchester Art Gallery was a highlight too, not just for the exhibitions but the beautiful building itself.

Connected to the hotel, Trib3 is a HIIT fitness gym that offers a selection of classes. Speaking of working out, it would be remiss of me not to mention The National Football Museum. Even for me, not the biggest fan of the game, I loved learning about the history and appreciated the museum’s dedication to telling stories of underrepresented groups in the sport. There are loads of fun interactive activities to test your skills and a whole floor dedicated to games like foosball and Subbuteo.

The room

We stayed in a First Class King room that was spacious enough to sleep three adults across the king-sized bed and comfy couch. The room had plenty of USB ports and plug sockets for charging everyone’s devices and I’m happy to say the Chromecast was swift and simple.

Yotel Manchester Deansgate King room
Crisp white linens are contrasted with a teal green accent in the rooms

The bathroom has a lovely rain shower and comes with vegan amenities from Urban Jungle. A work desk, smart television, and industrial-style wardrobe round out the offering. It’s everything you need, and nothing you don’t.

Eat and drink

I’ve got to shout out the breakfast here which is really good for vegetarians. There was a sweet potato and spinach hash that I would have packed into tupperware had I had any on me. The team also does a wonderful job of keeping the buffet dishes such as shakshuka, eggs, and mushrooms fresh and warm. It’s not the biggest selection I’ve ever seen, but it’s done right, and that’s what really matters.

Yotel Manchester Deansgate Motley restaurant cocktails
Indulge in a range of innovative cocktails at Motley

Come 11am, on the weekend at least, MOTLEY turns into a vibrant spot for brunch, frequented by both locals and visitors alike. Open until late, it was constantly turning over while we stayed, with seating spilling out into the lobby and a high energy vibe. We tried some of the innovative cocktails that pay homage to local flavours and themes. I would definitely recommend the Oh Honey Bee-hive, a tribute to the bee symbol of Manchester that you’ll see everywhere and that represents the working class spirit on which the city was built.

This contemporary hotel is a great option for anyone who likes to be in the heart of the action.

Learn more about YOTEL Manchester Deansgate

But wait, there’s more…