CitySuites Blog
Looking for places to stay in Manchester this 2024? Check out everything happening in Manchester in our local blog.
Manchester is an incredibly walkable city. And by that, we mean due its size and density, it is best explored on foot so that you don’t miss anything. When seeing the sights of Manchester, you’ll want to take in the shops and cafes of the Northern Quarter, the urban peacefulness of canal-side New Islington, and the hustle and bustle down Market Street. But have you thought about venturing just beyond Manchester Cathedral to Embankment West?
Where is Embankment West in Manchester?
Okay, so technically the River Irwell that passes through the city marks the boundary between Manchester and Salford, but Embankment West really is just a stone’s throw from Exchange Square and Selfridges.
What is the history of Embankment West?
The Embankment West area used to be the location of Manchester Exchange, a railway station that served major cities in the north, as well as London, from 1884 until 1969. It was left derelict for many years until being recently rejuvenated. Now, the Embankment West area is a home for many people, as well as an excellent spot to stay if visiting Manchester due to its proximity to the city centre.
What’s in Embankment West?
Glad you asked! Although the area is fairly new, there is lots going on – and more to come. Embankment West encompasses our two luxury aparthotels, CitySuites and CitySuites II, which are situated just next door to each other. For the foodies, Embankment Kitchen will tantalise your tastebuds with seasonal menus curated by head chef and former Masterchef contestant Marika Healey. EK also offers an extensive wine list and classic cocktails.
Also in the area is Embankment 100 and 101, two striking buildings offering premium office space right in the heart of Manchester. As we come out of the other side of the pandemic here in the UK, the return to the office is on many people’s minds. With a roof terrace, outstanding amenities and excellent connectivity, the Embankment buildings offer high quality spaces for you and your team.
If you like the idea of living right next to the city centre of Manchester, Affinity Living offers affordable, pet-friendly apartments to rent. With regular resident events, you’ll have ample opportunity to meet your neighbours (and their dogs!), giving this rental accommodation a lovely community feel. Not to mention on the ground floor, there is Embankment Cafe Co., offering amazing coffee, cakes and pastries, as well as some healthy nibbles for your post-gym session in the Affinity Living gym!
Where to stay in Embankment West?
Whether you’re in Manchester for a short time or a long time, for work or sightseeing, our serviced accommodation at CitySuites is designed to accommodate all types of stays. Every apartment features a separate living area and fully fitted kitchen, making it the ideal place for a ‘home away from home’ feel.
CitySuites is one of the only luxury aparthotels with a swimming pool in Manchester city centre, and each building has its own pool and hot tub. As well as this, CitySuites II also has a steam room, giving even more space to indulge and relax! But if working up a sweat is more your thing, CitySuites and CitySuites II both have spacious, fully equipped gyms that are open 24/7.
You can view our current offers here, or enquire about your dates!
If you only do one thing in Embankment West...
We absolutely recommend getting a coffee at Embankment Cafe Co.! This relaxing spot, which just opened in December 2021, offers a laid-back space to enjoy an attractive range of speciality coffee, teas, as well as delicious pastries.
Inside the café, there is imagery reflecting the site’s history and importance as a hub for travel and business in Manchester. Combined with these industrial touches is a informal feel, with contemporary art on the walls and slouchy sofas with blankets. You can bring your mates, your laptop, or your dog - everyone is welcome!
How to get to Embankment West?
Embankment West is very easily accessible due to its central location in Manchester, just next to the Arndale shopping centre and Manchester Cathedral. Manchester Victoria train station is just on the edge of the Embankment West neighbourhood, and the Exchange Square tram stop is less than a 5-minute walk away.
If you’re heading in via Manchester Piccadilly or Manchester Oxford Road train station, both are just a 20-minute walk from Embankment West, or a short taxi ride away. By car, you can park at the Q-Park Deansgate North car park which is located right in the middle of Embankment West. See here for instructions of how to get to the Q-Park Deansgate North.
What else is nearby?
Shoppers will love staying in Embankment West, due to its close proximity to Harvey Nichols, Selfridges, and the Manchester Arndale shopping centre. From the high end to the high street, there is something for everyone. The Embankment West neighbourhood is also just across the river from Exchange Square and Manchester’s Medieval Quarter, which is home to the Cathedral, the Corn Exchange, lots of lovely restaurants as well as Exchange Square tram stop.
