Some hotels are just a base for exploring, but the Kimpton Clocktower in Manchester is an experience in itself. We checked in with our dog, Hugo, and while the hotel is renowned for rolling out the red carpet for four-legged guests, it was this mix of dog-friendly hospitality, jaw-dropping architecture, and a perfect central location that made our trip.
Set inside one of the city’s most beautiful historic buildings, this hotel not only feels uniquely Mancunian but also perfectly balances old-school character with relaxed comfort.
First impressions: A lobby with the wow factor
You know that feeling when you walk into somewhere and immediately want to stop, stare and fill up your camera roll? That was us stepping into the Kimpton Clocktower’s lobby, with its magnificent glass-domed roof and beautiful architectural details.
There’s an immediate quiet hum and history that surrounds you – like you’ve walked into a grand museum. It turns out that’s not far from the truth – the building was designed by Alfred Waterhouse, the same Victorian architect behind London’s Natural History Museum. Which explains why looking up gives you that exact same sense of wonder.
The building opened in the 1890s as the headquarters for the Refuge Assurance Company, and today its massive clocktower is one of Manchester’s most famous landmarks. Everywhere you look, there’s intricate tiling, glazed brickwork, and stained glass. It’s absolutely worth taking a while to wander around and take it all in before you even think about heading up to your room.
The showstopper in the glass-domed lobby is a massive, 10-foot bronze horse. It isn’t just there for the Instagram photos, though – sculpted by Charles Dickens’ great-great-granddaughter, it marks the exact spot where the ‘turning circle’ for horse-drawn carriages used to be back in the Victorian era. That said, it is the ultimate photo spot, and you will make your dog pose next to it -guaranteed.
A warm welcome for Hugo
Of course, beautiful buildings are all very well, but when you travel with a dog, it’s the welcome they receive that really matters. The Kimpton Clocktower has a reputation for being one of Manchester’s most dog-friendly hotels, and we could see why.
Our room was bright, spacious and thoughtfully set up with everything Hugo needed to settle in comfortably. Waiting for him was a dog bed, a bowl, treats, poo bags, a soft pig toy and a tug toy. The toys were a particularly lovely touch, and Hugo was delighted with them!
Also good to know that there’s no extra charge if you bring your dog.
The architecture – and why you should skip the lift
Even if you’re not usually someone who spends time admiring architectural details, it’s hard not to be impressed by this building. From the striking terracotta exterior to the glazed brickwork, decorative tiles, and stained glass, there is a historical detail worth stopping for around every single corner.
And then there’s the Grand Staircase, magnificent in marble, with bronze detailing that looks down through the floors. It was originally reserved for directors and wealthy clients of the Refuge Assurance Company, so you can imagine the sort of people who once swept up and down it in the 1890s. Trust me on this: no matter what floor your room is on, ditch the lift and take the stairs at least once.
The original features sit alongside contemporary design, too. You’ll spot music-themed artwork throughout the building – a fitting nod to Manchester’s legendary music scene.
Dining at The Refuge – from breakfast to dinner (with your dog)
The Refuge, the hotel’s impressive restaurant and bar, is a destination in its own right. Set in a massive, open space, it has a lively atmosphere and plenty of personality, with striking artwork and an eclectic, buzzy, modern Manchester energy.
We enjoyed a fantastic breakfast here, the perfect fuel for a day of exploring – and came back for our evening meal, too. Best of all, dogs are completely welcome – and being able to enjoy both breakfast and dinner without having to make separate arrangements for Hugo made our stay that much easier.
Another win? The hotel’s nightly Social Hour, where guests can head down to the wood-panelled Post Room between 5pm and 6pm for a free glass of wine, beer, or a soft drink (and refills) – a brilliant, relaxed perk that instantly makes you feel looked after.
Manchester on your doorstep
Location-wise, the Kimpton Clocktower is right in the heart of Manchester, with your pick of shops, independent cafés and restaurants all within easy walking distance.
One of our favourite routes took us away from the busy shopping streets and out along the canal path toward New Islington Marina. It’s a lovely way to see a different, calmer, side of Manchester , and a great opportunity for Hugo to stretch his legs. Naturally, we had to stop at Pollen Bakery, a much-loved cafe right on the water. If you appreciate great coffee and a seriously tempting counter full of fresh pastries, it is the perfect excuse for a walk.
We also met up with family for a meal in Ancoats, another Manchester neighbourhood packed with independent spots that’s well worth exploring. We chose Canto, a Spanish and Portuguese-inspired tapas restaurant, where the team couldn’t have been more accommodating. They found us a large table tucked away in a quiet corner, where Hugo soon settled down and fell asleep while we enjoyed our meal, which is pretty much the ultimate victory when dining out with a dog!
Our verdict: A special place to stay with your dog
The Kimpton Clocktower manages to be both gloriously grand and genuinely welcoming. And what an opportunity to stay in a piece of Manchester’s history!
From that first impressive view of the glass-domed lobby to the sweeping marble staircases, decorative tiles and historic details, you’re staying somewhere completely unique. Add a comfortable, spacious room, thoughtful touches for Hugo, excellent food and a walk-everywhere location, and you have all the ingredients for a memorable dog-friendly getaway.
Address: The Kimpton Clocktower, Oxford Street, Manchester, M60 7HA