AC Hotel Manchester Salford Quays

I usually find Salford Quays a bit of a soulless place so it was good to discover that the newly renovated AC Hotel run by the Marriott Hotel Group is far from soulless.

The check in was swift and friendly, although we had to wait a while for the lift to our room as one of the two lifts was being repaired. It was pleasing to see lavender along with small sacks to put the lavender in, placed on a small table by the lift, so you could place the sack on your pillow to get a good night's sleep.

Not that you would need it as the beds were very comfortable. The Superior room had all the usual features you come to expect at this standard, such as a very comfortable bed, large screen TV, Nespresso coffee machine, fridge with a few complimentary soft drinks, fast free Wi Fi, a room on a high floor and a well equipped bathroom.

The on site restaurant doesn't have a large menu but what they do, they do well and the good thing is that it is all presented with northern hospitality.

My Classic Caesar salad came with cheese and garlic focaccia and croutons and was fresh and well balanced, whilst my partner commented about her Superfood salad of mixed leaves, cucumber, asparagus and sun blushed tomatoes that "it was a long time since I have eaten anything as tasty as this".

My main of 100% beef burger came with my added choice of bacon and cheddar cheese. It was just as good as any of those served in the higher end burger restaurants.

My partner thought that her 8oz Sirloin steak that came with proper steak cut chips was moreish and tasty, the steak was good and cooked just to her preference.

I enjoyed the cheeseboard of a tangy Stilton, a creamy Brie and a mild cheddar served with crackers and chutney, but my partner thought her cheesecake had a topping that was more like Angel Delight than what you normally get on a cheesecake.

There is a fully equipped gym on site should you wish to burn off the calories.

Breakfast is buffet style and the morning team were very attentive. They will cook your eggs scrambled, poached or fried to go with the bacon, sausages, mushrooms and beans, though I didn't see any tomatoes.

Good selection of fresh pastries too with some pain aux raisins that tasted like they do in France.

They have a lounge on the first floor that many guests seemed to miss, which is a shame as it was homely, relaxing and tranquil.

With the hotel being handy for Old Trafford cricket and football grounds, the Lowry and MediaCity and a tram stop just across the road, Manchester city centre is just a few minutes away. I also liked the free car park as anyone who knows this area will definitely appreciate.

The staff all seemed to enjoy working there and that made such a difference.

AC Hotel Manchester Salford Quays, 17-19 Trafford Road, Manchester M5 3AW
Telephone 0161 868 1138
www.ac-hotels.com