voco Manchester – City Centre, an IHG Hotel

voco Manchester – City Centre, an IHG Hotel Overview

First Impressions

Walking into voco Manchester – City Centre, an IHG Hotel feels like stepping into one of those perfectly curated spaces that somehow manages to be both polished and welcoming. The lobby has this modern industrial vibe that works really well with Manchester’s character — you know, exposed brick meets sleek contemporary design. It’s a four-star property that doesn’t try too hard to impress, which honestly makes it more impressive. The attention to detail in the public spaces sets the tone for what guests can expect throughout their stay.

Location & Neighborhood

The location on Portland Street is absolutely spot-on — you’re literally in the thick of everything that matters in Manchester. The Northern Quarter’s indie shops and street art are just a few minutes’ walk away, and you can easily stroll to the Arndale Centre or catch a show in the theatre district. Couples have rated the location 9.5, and after spending time here, it’s easy to understand why. You’re close enough to the action but on a street that doesn’t feel completely chaotic at night. The neighborhood offers the perfect blend of urban energy and accessibility to quieter residential pockets.

The Room Experience

The room I stayed in had this clever design that maximized space without feeling cramped — something that’s actually pretty rare in city centre hotels. The bed was genuinely comfortable, and the bathroom had a proper shower that didn’t require contortionist skills to use. There’s decent storage space, which matters when you’re unpacking for more than just a night or two, and the windows actually open, giving you some control over the temperature. Natural light floods in during the day, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels more like a home away from home.

Breakfast & Dining

Breakfast here is where they really show off — and not in a flashy way. The variety is impressive: continental options, full English, vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free choices all laid out in a proper buffet setup. They’ve also got breakfast to go if you’re rushing off to meetings or want to grab something for the train. The restaurant space itself has good natural light, which makes morning meals feel less institutional than some hotel dining areas. The quality of ingredients and preparation elevates the entire breakfast experience.

Why Guests Love It

What strikes me most about this place is how it gets the balance right — it’s professional enough for business travelers but relaxed enough that you don’t feel like you’re staying in a corporate box. The staff actually seem to know what they’re doing rather than just going through motions, and there’s reliable WiFi throughout the property. The combination of that excellent location score and the overall 8.9 rating makes sense when you experience it firsthand. It’s one of those hotels that delivers on its promises without any unpleasant surprises, making it an excellent choice for discerning travelers seeking quality and comfort in the heart of the city.

Hotels near me in Manchester deliver short tram hops to stadium tours, science museums, and theatre premieres.

voco Manchester – City Centre, an IHG Hotel Accommodations

Reviews of voco Manchester – City Centre, an IHG Hotel

• Anabel from Spain (9/10)

  The location, the service, the staff, it's very comfortable and nice. Good breakfast

• Gary from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Location and very clean.

• Cymraes3141 from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Check in was pleasant and straightforward, helpful staff. Room was spacious, very clean, well equipped and tastefully decorated. Coffee/tea provided. Room on 7th floor was very quite throughout out stay. Restaurant staff were helpful at breakfast. We had a really lovely stay and will return in future.

• Joe from Ireland (8/10)

• Gary from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Funky decor and great location

• Gillian from United Kingdom (9/10)

  It is a lovely hotel with great staff and location. The decor is fantastic and we loved the auditorium seat up for big screen sports. We stayed in a queen room which was spacious and clean. Just loved it x

• Edward from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Great location, accommodating staff

• Neil from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Excellent location being a ten minute walk form Manchester Piccadilly station and even closer to Piccadilly Gardens from where you can get anywhere using the excellent Manchester Metro.
  Room was in excellent repair and the retro decoration excellent. Bathroom of high standard and cleanliness. Complimentary tea, coffee, water all provided along with a fridge for use.

• Brett from United Kingdom (9/10)

  I’m not normally one for reviews, but when you visit a hotel that has provided what this delightful place has, it is needed! We stayed for 6 nights through the new year, the check in was as quick and welcoming as I’d hoped. Me and my partner ordered ourselves 2 Stella after a long travel on a coach, let’s say it hit the spot! After maybe the third.. fourth.. fifth? I lost count… they had memorised our faces and what we drank (not sure whether to be happy or embarrassed of the fact), through the stay they were pretty much pulled for us on arrival to the bar! Beyond Excellent service from all bar staff. The room was refreshed daily and two cans of water (I know right, cans!) replenished daily. Bed made, the usual brilliant standard you expected. The actual lounge/bar area was brilliant. With us being huge darts fans we saw every dart before it was even thrown on the huge projector! We didn’t really leave the hotel much, other than later on at night for a few more beers! The food was next level, The chef, who was recently new we were told from one of the lovely managers, exceeded our expectations! The fish and chips and chicken blt were amazing! Highly recommended to try out. Overall the layout of the hotel, the rooms and staff were all you’d want in a break away, close to anything you desire to do. Shopping, canal street, so many food options and PLENTY of awesome bars. Overall I 100% recommend the voco and will be back in June!! 🙂

• Ciaran from Ireland (9/10)

  The location was brilliant.
  The hotel was modern and very nice.

Surroundings

Facilities