In addition to this the Grade II listed building, built in 1903, now has nine new bedrooms bringing the total number to 312, and the hotel has wireless free internet access (Wi-Fi) in all bedrooms, plus all public areas.

The Midland has also created two new facilities; what once served as the main restaurant of the Hotel is now The Trafford Room, a function suite catering for up to 200 guests, befitting for business or social events and a perfect setting for weddings. The other area is The Wyvern, a stylish new bar in which to relax and unwind, situated at the front of the hotel overlooking St. Peter’s Square and the hustle and bustle of the vibrant city centre.

The new design of the interior is the brainchild of London based Charles Leon, of Charles Leon Associates. CLA pride themselves on being a team of innovative designers dedicated to creating interiors that have personality and attitude, whilst keeping in mind the most important aspect – the people who will use it.

Charles Leon says:
“We studied photographs and original plans of the hotel to get a sense of its grand past then set out to revive the hotel’s stature and gravitas. Atmospheric lighting, slender and dignified columns, a polished marble floor and elegantly etched glass panels with extracts from WH Auden’s ‘Night Mail’ bring authority and confidence to the reception court and give reference to its railway origins.

The ground floor is, and has always been one of Manchester’s most important meeting and greeting spaces and sets the tone for the hotel. We have introduced a timelessness that sits comfortably within the Grade II listed building.”

The refurbishment has been well received by management and staff at the hotel. Mike Magrane, General Manager says:

“We are absolutely delighted with the result, the hotel looks amazing and it’s a resounding success with our customers too, which is, of course, the most important factor.

The hotel was ready for the refurbishment; The Midland is much loved by many people and we are proud of the fact that we have a very loyal customer base, but we know that can never be taken for granted. With the influx of new hotels to Manchester we had no intention of resting on our laurels, and now the hotel is exactly where it belongs – back at the forefront of the region.”

The Midland is unrivalled when it comes to history and character boasting a guest list over the years that other hotels can only envy, and it has its own dedicated Blue Badge Tour Guide, holding weekly tours of the venue.