Liverpool is by far one of the most original, cosmopolitan and vibrant cities in England. The edgy downtown cobbled area around Seel Street is undergoing massive regeneration and is bursting with people having fun at the hipster bars and trendy restaurants.
Towards the end of Seel Street, in a row of historic terraced warehouse styled buildings, is the Nadler Hotel, which, in recent years, has undergone a £14m renovation. In its former life, this 19th century building housed a printer, a cork warehouse and an engineering works. Now it’s a 106-roomed air-conditioned contemporary designer hotel retaining much of its heritage features.
The hotel is in a fantastic location for exploring Liverpool and is within easy reach of the cathedrals and the beautifully restored Albert Dock. It’s in the middle of the shopping and restaurant district of Ropewalks, Liverpool One shopping centre and some of the UK’s best nightlife. It’s close to all the action and is the place to be in the evening (you’ll be glad of the triple glazing insulation).
Tranquil Haven in the Centre of Party Town
The Nadler have a less-is-more philosophy and very deliberately doesn’t have a restaurant or bar. Instead, they encourage patrons to eat out in the urban village as the neighbourhood’s resurgent restaurant scene is the biggest attraction. Literally the second you step out of the hotel you feel the contagious energy of the quarter with traditional pubs rubbing shoulders with iconic bars, family-run cafés, independent bakeries and restaurants, all championing fresh regional produce. Like the authentic Moroccan Kasbah Café on Bold Street or the Lebanese street food at Bakchich – ask after the best local dinner hotspots featured in the Nadler’s ever-growing address book – all offer special discounts for Nadler guests.
For unique cocktails, enjoy a few nightcaps at Salt Dog Slims on Seel Street, a few steps from Nadler’s. If you’re partial to a boozy milkshake, next door is Slims Pork Chop, who also do a terrific meat platter.
Should you not be in the mood for hip restaurants, consider in-room dining – your fully equipped hidden mini-kitchen with useful additions like microwave, fridge and kettle, has all you need for a self-catering option. The ingredients for your feast can either be sourced from the nearby supermarket or call the concierge for take-away suggestions (have them place the order). The hotel doesn’t have a bar but does sell some drinks over reception such as wines and prosecco.
Breakfast is a similar affair with a choice of an in-room continental breakfast (pre-ordered with guest relations) from Lunya, a local Catalonian fusion deli and restaurant. Going out for breakfast is a real treat; there must be at least ten eateries within a few minutes of the hotel. Try an Arabic breakfast on Bold Street or the cappuccino and a breakfast of brown toast, mushrooms, with avocado and an egg at Bold Street Coffee.
There’s handy Q-Parking nearby; have your parking card discounted at reception.
Several buildings immediately around the Nadler are undergoing renovation, but don’t let this cause concern. The minute you’ve gained swipe-card access through the unobtrusive entrance to the hotel’s lobby, it’s plain to see that this is a find. The entrance and reception is an oasis of calm surrounded by wonderful artwork, including moving images projected onto the wall outside the lift area, which is also swipe-card access only which is a great concept – trendy without sacrificing security.
The rooms are well designed, stylish and simple in black, white and grey. The Deluxe bedrooms are especially spacious and modern with a super comfortable 6ft king sized beds, a large bathroom (complimentary Gilchrist & Soames toiletries), power points (including European 220V) where you need them, conveniently placed mirrors, 37″ Flat screen HDTV, and little tech touches like (free) Wi-Fi password on the television – there’s even a pillow menu, which are all small things but add to a pleasant stay. Most of the rooms have the ability to be adjoining, offering a suite option for groups traveling together.
This 106-roomed luxury boutique hotel, located in the heart of Liverpool, has a refreshing approach to offering accommodation at 4-star value for money with prices starting at £49.
Nadler Hotel, 29 Seel Street, Liverpool L1 4AU