Holiday Inn Express Manchester – Salford Quays, an IHG Hotel

Holiday Inn Express Manchester – Salford Quays, an IHG Hotel Overview

First Impressions

Walking into the Holiday Inn Express Manchester – Salford Quays, an IHG Hotel, you immediately get that “this place has its act together” feeling. The lobby’s modern and clean without trying too hard, and honestly, the staff seem genuinely happy to see you — which isn’t always a given at three-star properties. What really caught my attention was how the whole place feels purpose-built for this location, not just dropped here as an afterthought.

Location & Neighborhood

Here’s the thing about Salford Quays — it’s one of those areas that completely transformed itself, and this hotel sits right in the sweet spot. You’re literally walking distance from MediaCity UK (where the BBC moved their operations), and Old Trafford is close enough that you can hear the roar on match days. The waterfront location means you’ve got proper views, not just another car park to stare at. I mean, you can walk to The Lowry arts center in about five minutes, and there’s a decent selection of restaurants right around the corner without having to trek into central Manchester.

The Room Experience

The rooms are what you’d expect from Holiday Inn Express — functional, comfortable, and surprisingly quiet given how close you are to everything. The beds are actually really good (I’m picky about this), and there’s enough space to spread out your stuff without feeling cramped. What I appreciated was the attention to small details — decent lighting for reading, enough plugs near the bed, and a proper shower with good water pressure. The views vary depending on which side you’re on, but even the less scenic ones aren’t looking at anything depressing.

Breakfast & Amenities

The complimentary breakfast is solid — not fancy, but it’ll definitely set you up for the day. They’ve got the usual suspects (cereals, pastries, fruit) plus hot options that are actually hot when you get there. The coffee’s decent too, which matters more than people realize. There’s a fitness center that’s small but has the basics, and the 24-hour front desk is genuinely helpful when you need directions or recommendations. You know what I really liked? The business center actually works properly — sometimes the simplest things make the biggest difference.

Why Guests Love It

This three-star hotel punches above its weight because it gets the fundamentals right while giving you that waterfront location that would cost significantly more elsewhere in Manchester. Couples seem to particularly appreciate the area — it’s got that relaxed, almost resort-like feel during the day, but you’re still connected to everything Manchester has to offer. The combination of being near major attractions without the chaos of staying right in the city center is pretty appealing, especially when you factor in the value for money. It’s the kind of place where you sleep well, start your day properly, and spend your time exploring rather than dealing with hotel hassles.

Early hotels booking in Manchester secures Pride grandstands, Christmas markets, and rooftop fireworks parties.

Holiday Inn Express Manchester – Salford Quays, an IHG Hotel Accommodations

Reviews of Holiday Inn Express Manchester – Salford Quays, an IHG Hotel

• Miriame from France (8/10)

  Everything was good, we had a good time.

• Sarah from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Location, price, breakfast and cancellation

• Michelle from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Everything bar the shower. Staff were fantastic and helpful, breakfast was great, rooms were good

• Sara from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Situation

• Chelsea from United Kingdom (8/10)

  All staff where very friendly and helpful.

• Burry from United Kingdom (7/10)

  Location is quiet and you can find many restaurants and pubs around and clean rooms,

• David from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Booking in was easy, help with paying for the car parking, staff very helpful. Hotel was very clean and tidy.

• Jan from Australia (8/10)

  Closeness to Old Trafford

• Jessica from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Location to media city perfect

• Christine from United Kingdom (9/10)

  The best ever blackout curtains!

Surroundings

Facilities