The Lowry Hotel, Manchester

The hotel's located on the banks of the River Irwell - cross the bridge and you'll reach the city centre. You're close to the bars and restaurants in Spinningfields, or you can visit The People's History Museum.

Located in Salford, the hotel is only a five-minute walk from Deansgate, in the city centre.

By car: around 2 hours 30 minutes from Nottingham and over 4 hours from London. Paid parking available on-site.

By train: London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly takes around 2 hours, after which, it's a a 20-minute taxi to the hotel. Book trains to Manchester.

Expect modern luxury with chic interiors - from the enormous honeycomb-effect light in the lobby to the gold reception desks. Natural light floods in from floor-to-ceiling windows, also offering stunning river views. In the restaurant, geometric partitions between tables give an intimate feel.

Staff are friendly and keen to make recommendations, particularly on cocktails. There's a small gym and hairdressers, but head to the spa for a relaxing treatment in one of six rooms.

• Restaurant

• Bar

• Terrace

• Gym

• Spa

• Hair salon

• On-site parking

• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms are spacious with neutral décor, livened up by pops of colours (orange and turquoise) on features including curtains, cushions and chaise longues. Floor-to-ceiling windows means rooms are bright and they also have enormous statement lamps.

Room types: Deluxe, Superior, Executive, Junior Suite, Riverside Suite, Presidental Suite

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

Overlooking the River Irwell, the River Restaurant serves British classics, such as Cheshire farm steak and beef Wellington. Be sure to save room for dessert - try the Heather Honey cake which is made using honey from The Lowry's own beehive. The afternoon tea is popular with guests and locals alike, while the bar & lounge next door serves cocktails and light bites.

The River Restaurant: two AA-Rosettes, modern British cuisine. Open daily for breakfast and lunch, Mon-Sat for dinner.

The Lowry Lounge & Bar: cocktails and small plates, open daily 10am-10pm.