The Midland
The Midland is Manchester's grand Edwardian railway hotel, opened in 1903 on Peter Street opposite the former Central station. It is where Charles Rolls met Henry Royce in 1904, and today offers more than 300 bedrooms and suites, Adam Reid at The French and the Mount Street dining room.
Photos
Daniel Giger
History
The Midland Railway built the hotel to serve Manchester Central station, now a conference and exhibition centre across the road. Designed by Charles Trubshaw in an Edwardian Baroque style, its terracotta and granite bulk takes up a whole block. Its most famous moment came in 1904, when Charles Rolls and Henry Royce met here, leading to Rolls-Royce. The building is Grade II* listed. Its scale reflects the confidence of the railway age.
Staying and dining
There are 312 en-suite bedrooms and 14 suites. Adam Reid at The French is the hotel's fine-dining restaurant, and Mount Street Dining Room & Bar offers a more relaxed option. Both are open to non-residents.
Location
You're on St Peter's Square, beside Manchester Central and a short walk from Albert Square, the Bridgewater Hall and Deansgate. The Metrolink stop at St Peter's Square is outside, and Oxford Road and Deansgate stations are close. It's a strong base for concerts, conferences and theatre at the Opera House or Palace. Even if you aren't staying, the public rooms are worth a look as one of the city's finest Edwardian interiors. Book dining ahead on weekends.
Highlights
- Opened 1903 by the Midland Railway
- Where Rolls met Royce in 1904
- Grade II* listed Edwardian Baroque building
- 312 bedrooms and 14 suites
- Adam Reid at The French
Good to know
- St Peter's Square Metrolink stop is next to the hotel.
- Restaurants are open to non-residents; booking advised.
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: en.wikipedia.org