Sandside Vacations from $1,182

Card didn’t work twice but apart from that, everything was great

I arrived earlier than expected and asked if we could check in early and I'd be happy to pay for it. I was told my room wasn't ready, so asked if we could move rooms to one that was, but that was apparently unavailable. There was no warm welcome either, just felt like an inconvenience. I came back at 3:08pm, check in is at 3pm, and was told my room still wasn't ready! (I could see them handing keys over to other customers) I'd already explained we were in a rush to get to an event and needed to leave by 3:30pm. Regardless, I've never been told at any hotel our room wasn't ready after the check in time. Just kept being told they were busy. Not helpful after a 6 hour drive. I spoke to a different member of staff who was much more helpful and she moved our rooms immediately without me needing to ask. More annoyingly, upon booking, and 20 mins after booking on a phone call, I'd explained my accessibility needs (very quiet room on a high level, away from lifts, and at the end of the corridor), but this was not provided. I have to book hotels knowing this would be guaranteed, which it was promised over the phone. This led to a very poor night's sleep, which is detrimental to those with M.E, and I had to have a nap in the back of the car while my teenage children continued the day without me, so I could drive us home safely. For a hotel stay costing over £200 for the night, I did not expect this level of service, and it completely ruined our trip.

Hotel couldn't be better located for central Manchester. It was a 20 min walk from the station but plenty of options for cab, bus or tram there. We were able to check in early and the apartment was well appointed and spacious. Absolutely loved the fact the towels were decent sizes and there was plenty of crockery/glassware in the kitchen. Bed was comfortable with lots of hanging space and spare pillows/blanket. Staff were friendly and we were checked in promptly. Nespresso machine in the room and although we has breakfast included, we didn't end up utilising - great that there is both a cafe and restaurant downstairs though. Only negative was the carpet felt grubby and very tired looking. Didn't feel or look particularly clean in the bedrooms.

Great place, superb quirky, and right in the middle of the city. Would definitely stay here again.