Manchester
England


The Experience

Taking its name from the renowned painter L.S. Lowry (best known for his matchstick-men pictures), the Lowry opened in 2001 with the high chic quotient that's a signature of Rocco Forte. Heavy on light, glass and steel, it's proven to fill a niche especially with the television and film crowd, who seem to appreciate the bold design. And while it boasts of being Manchester's first five-star hotel, locals consider it to be in much-less-fashionable Salford. It makes little difference; the heart of Manchester city is just across the River Irwell on Santiago Calatrava's stylishly modern Trinity footbridge.

The Rooms

Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the rooms with light to show off the contemporary furnishings. Soft beige tones and dark woods are mixed with a splash of color -- be it a red armchair or a bright orange cushion laid across the six-feet-wide beds. Designed with work in mind, the rooms have proper desks with ergonomic chairs and the latest in communication connections. For the ultimate treat, take the Charles Forte Suite (named in honor of the hotelier's father), complete with baby grand piano and a 24-hour bath butler.

The Service

Sir Rocco Forte runs a tight ship, and slackers are not welcome aboard. The concierge department is especially strong and can get you the table or ticket you desire -- even seats for a Manchester United home game (though some would argue that Man U home games are a time to give Manchester a wide berth).

The Highlights

The River Restaurant is a destination dining room for Manchester's finest, including footballers' wives and girlfriends, or WAGs, as they are known. (As in many U.K. cities, the action happens at the end of the week and things can be very calm at the beginning.) The cooking features fusion cuisine, but is equally proud to celebrate the best of British, using well-sourced ingredients for its modern British pie menu -- Tuesday means steak and kidney pie with ale. Finish off the day in the bar, which is large and buzzy, but thanks to the Japanese-style screens, can also feel quite intimate.

-- Alistair Scott

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