The Hilton Deansgate (http://www.hilton.co.uk/manchesterdeansgate) hotel occupies the bottom 23 floors of what is easily the tallest building in Manchester. Located in the city centre, the 47 storey glass clad building is very impressive and can be seen from miles away: I lived in Leigh 14 miles away and could see (on a smog free day) the building towering over the city. I booked our one night stay through the Hilton's own website and found this to be quick and easy. Being 'budget conscious' (in other words stingy) I used their booking system to identify a cheap day and booked a Queen size with breakfast. If you are flexible on your dates you can make a real saving, and still make a really special evening.

We arrived as early as possible so we could take advantage of the hotel facilities, and parked in the NCP carpark that is adjacent to the Hilton (part of the AMC cinema). The hotel offers a discount for guests using this carpark. Unfortunately I cannot remember the price (sorry MALU) and it is not stated on the website. However, after some research it appears that a 40% discount is given making the overnight rate around £8.50. If you have heavy bags it is an inconvenience walking across the street to the hotel. But as we were only staying the one night we had small bags (despite still having to pack a hairdryer etc- can't use the one in the room, oh no). We were greeted upon arrival by a very friendly member of staff, who made us feel very welcome, the check-in was over very quickly and we made our way to our room on the 7th floor. We found the service to be on the whole very efficient and helpful throughout our stay (excluding the bar, more on that later).

Our room was spacious and well presented, but our attention was taken by the view out of the floor-to-ceiling window. A shame our room was south facing (and looked over Hulme and Moss Side) but it was an impressive view none-the-less. The room was very warm though as the air-con had not been switched on before our arrival. This was the first of two negative points about our stay. The bed was very comfortable, and the room was very clean as would be expected of a Hilton hotel. We left the room to cool down, and headed to the swimming pool on the second floor- a fantastic place with views over the surrounding streets and great place to unwind.

One of the attractions of the Hilton Deansgate is Cloud 23. With unparalleled views over Manchester (and Coronation Street) the bar on the 23rd floor is a must and considered a part of any stay. You are advised to reserve a table (although some rooms get priority access), but as it was a Sunday night the bar was not too busy. Cloud 23, despite its great views and a trendy (but relaxed) atmosphere, was the second of the negative experiences of our stay. The service was abysmal, bad enough that I actually complained (which, believe me, makes it pretty dire). We were moved from our table, having being told that it was reserved- although there was no sign to warn us. Despite being quick to shift us, the staff waited 30 minutes before asking us if we wanted to order anything. Subsequent orders also took 30+ minutes and I had to go to the bar to pay (meant to be table service). We are not alone in receiving poor service- I have heard many reports of long waits. But, on the plus side it saved us money as with no service we could not order the £10 cocktails. Still, the setting, music and atmosphere made it an enjoyable experience.

The next day we enjoyed a good buffet breakfast in the ground floor restaurant. It capped off what was a very relaxed and enjoyable stay. I would definitely go back for a special occasion or if I needed a hotel in the centre of Manchester. It is in a prime location for shopping and fine dining; many of the nearby restaurants have good reputations. Two train stations in close proximity, and the metrolink being right next door, make it convenient too. The hotel also offered good value for money- especially as we booked on a cheaper date. If you can be flexible you can get a great deal, at a great hotel, in the heart of a vibrant city. Highly recommended.