Step inside one of Manchester’s most iconic buildings and discover its rich past at a new free exhibition hosted at the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel.
Clocking Manchester: 130 Years in the City’s Evolving Skyline opens on 12 June and runs throughout the summer. The exhibition takes place in the stunning surroundings of the hotel’s Refuge bar and dining space, where visitors can trace the building’s journey from its 1895 origins as the Refuge Assurance Building to its present-day role as a landmark luxury hotel.
Highlights include rare archive photographs and original architectural drawings that reveal the fascinating story behind the building’s evolution – including how the now-famous clocktower was never part of the original design.
Alongside the history of the building itself, the exhibition shares portraits and personal stories from those who’ve shaped its legacy – from former employees to a couple who met working at the building and later returned as hotel guests.
Today, the Grade II listed Kimpton Clocktower Hotel is known for its blend of Victorian grandeur and modern style. Visitors can admire original features such as glazed bricks, stained glass windows and carved staircases, alongside contemporary design and art, including a striking three-metre bronze horse sculpture by artist Sophie Dickens in the lobby.
As part of the celebration, guests can also view Suite No.51, Manchester’s first three-bedroom suite, created in the building’s former Directors’ office.
An interactive guestbook invites everyone to share their own memories, stories or connections to the building, adding new voices to a legacy that’s spanned over a century.
To mark the anniversary, the hotel is also offering 130 special giveaways, including overnight stays, meals, drinks, luxury treats and more. These exclusive prizes are available to members of the hotel’s mailing list, offering a little something special as part of the celebration.
