Carlson has a host of hotel brands, but my favorite is Radisson Blu. If you are flying in and out of Manchester, England, the Radisson Blu – Manchester Airport is ideally located for early morning flights, between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. However, if you’re staying in Manchester’s city centre, the Radisson Blu – Edwardian is spectacular.
Lobby, Radisson Blu Edwardian
Situated near the bustle of Albert Hall, it provides a serene and calm respite from the bustle of the city. Decorated with eastern art, it boasts two restaurants and a health spa. We stayed in an Al-Fresco Suite with a terrace. Turns out the terrace was covered, which worked beautifully when the summer rains came.
Radisson Blu Edwardian
All the suites are named after people who performed in the Free Trade Hall (ours was the Page suite). We had an extra-large king, a sofa bed, terrace with seating, and a chaise longue. If you want to really splash out, you can book one of the four penthouse suites (Pennine Suites) on the 14th floor, also named after performers (Dylan, Bassey, Fitzgerald and Valentino).
We dined in Opus One, and really enjoyed the innovative cocktails as well as the teas. Breakfast is a real treat at the Edwardian. We enjoyed the comprehensive buffet, as well as some really gorgeously cooked-to-order items, especially truffled eggs benedict.
Page al-fresco suite, Radisson Blu Edwardian
The fitness and pool area was pleasant, with a well-equipped fitness area (think elliptical, treadmills, bikes, weights, and more), hot tub, steam room, sauna, and pool. Well-designed, the area is adjacent to the Sienna Spa, which offers a plethora of treatments. The aromatherapy massage is not to be missed! And currently, hotel guests receive 10% off services.
The staff, especially the concierge staff, is very attentive and helpful – every time we left the building, people unobtrusively offered help, advice, and direction. Given the Edwardian’s central Manchester location, everything is walkable and convenient – a real bonus.
Truffled Eggs Benedict, Radisson Blu Edwardian
We wandered extensively around Manchester, enjoying the sights, sounds, scents, and tastes of this rejuvenated city. (Meals at Revolucion de Cuba and Wagamama in addition to the hotel’s dining options).
Book your lodging directly at www.radissonblu-edwardian.com, or use one of the booking engines like www.booking.com or www.trivago.com. If you join the Radisson affinity club (Radisson Rewards, for no cost), you can earn points towards nights at any of their properties, which is an added incentive (www.radissonrewards.com).
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