Once an old bank, Manchester’s Hotel Gotham has been rebranded as The Rex Hotel. A stylish space – and one with deep heritage in the city – we checked in, to check out the new look.
Situated on Manchester’s iconic King Street, an address long synonymous with elegance, this hotel has been thoughtfully reimagined and breathes new life into one of the city’s most storied addresses. Original architectural details nod to the building’s banking past, while refined interiors and understated luxury create a distinctly contemporary stay.
Now owned by Leonardo Hotels, a group that also includes The Dilly hotel in London’s Piccadilly, The Midland Hotel in Manchester and The Grand in Brighton, The Rex looks set to become the newest hangout for the who’s who of Manchester.
The recent refurb (April 2026) celebrates the building’s historic grandeur, while introducing an Art Deco style. The hotel has carefully preserved details of its former life as a bank, like the original iron vault door and vintage typewriters thoughtfully displayed as decorative pieces. Throughout, guests are dressed stylishly, whether it’s for cocktails on the rooftop terrace, catch ups with friends over afternoon or a private event – think glamorous cocktail dresses, a touch of Gatsby glamour and impeccably swept-up hair.
The Rex has an intimate feel, and staying here transports guests to the golden age of Art Deco, where elegant interiors, geometric details and vintage glamour combine to create a timeless boutique escape. The rooftop terrace has sweeping city views, and elsewhere Reign Restaurant serves afternoon tea and evening tasting menus, and there’s an on-site beauty service to get you ready for the night.
The Rooms and Suites
The Gotham Suite
Step inside any of the 60 bedrooms and you’ll find geometric carpets, jewel-toned armchairs in vibrant teal and fuchsia, polished dark wood and burnished metals that create a bold and inviting atmosphere. Spacious walk-in showers come with all rooms, but those with a generous budget should book the Bank Manager’s Suite – the original bank manager’s room and complete with an indulgent roll-top bath. For complete seclusion, the Inner Sanctum Suite offers something a little different from most hotels: an entirely private retreat, centred around a striking architectural feature wall and intentionally free from windows.
The Food + Drink
Named after the building’s original architect, Sir Edwin Lutyens, Lutyens Afternoon Tea is a fitting tribute to one of Britain’s great designers. Served in Reign Restaurant on the sixth floor, it’s an elegant affair framed by sweeping views across Manchester through the hotel’s signature black arched windows. Delicately crafted finger sandwiches, warm, freshly baked scones served with rich clotted cream and an exquisite selection of pastries are paired with a carefully curated tea selection. Dinner is also served at Reign Restaurant, and it’s a five-course tasting menu. Signature dishes include the fillet steak and fries complete with traditional northern delights: apple crumble and custard. No stay would be complete without the terrace experience, though. With skyline views of the city, it’s an ideal spot for cocktails after dark, served with a side of live music.
The Little Extras
Two levels beneath The Rex, and hidden behind the original vault doors is The Strongroom, one of the city’s most distinctive private event spaces. At its heart is a full-size snooker table that transforms into an impressive dining table, and a large screen makes it equally suited to presentations, private film screenings or watching live sporting events with friends. For larger occasions, The Treasury provides an exclusive events space, continuing the property’s signature blend of history, character and understated elegance.
Service throughout this hotel is excellent, and you can feel the excitement amongst staff about its revamp.
The To-Do List
Perfectly positioned in the heart of the city, staying at The Rex gives you instant access to some of Manchester’s best shopping, dining and cultural landmarks. Look to Vivienne Westwood, and the designer stores on King Street and Market Street where you’ll find all the best high street shops and restaurants. A short stroll from here are the food districts of the Northern Quarter – or visit Spinningfields for a table at The Ivy, Sexy Fish or 20 Stories, which has one of the highest views over Manchester’s skyline. The Manchester Art Gallery is also just minutes away, as is the Royal Exchange theatre, known for its unique performances inside a historic trading hall; it will be showing King Lear from 2 October.
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