A landmark reborn: where Victorian grandeur meets modern indulgence

Grand architecture, iconic clock tower, towering columns, vaulted ceilings, and original marble – The Municipal Hotel & Spa in Liverpool isn’t just a hotel. It’s a lovingly restored civic palace, boasting the only 5* hotel in the city, and the only M-Gallery property in the UK.

This boutique-hotel takes residence in a Grade II listed heritage building from the mid-19th century, on the city’s vibrant Dale Street and combine’s stylish, modern opulence with historic charm. The iconic listed building spans four floors and features 179 luxurious rooms, with considered design references throughout that pay homage to the building’s rich heritage of French and Italian influences. 

Whether it’s a spontaneous weekend break, a post-school-run escape or a romantic night away, this is a city retreat that wraps you in luxury, history, and timeless style.

Grandeur in Every Detail

Set within the former Liverpool City Council building (built in 1868), The Municipal has undergone a multi-million-pound transformation, resulting in a destination hotel brimming with elegance. The original Victorian architecture – grand staircases, tiled mosaics, and wrought-iron flourishes – has been matched with plush velvet, ambient lighting, and rich textures throughout.

Rooms That Cocoon

Spacious, calm and impeccably finished, the rooms nod to classic British design. We stayed in a Deluxe Double room on the ground floor. Each of these deluxe rooms offers a Smart TV, free WiFi, tea and coffee amenities, safe, fridge, and mineral water. Oh, and an old-fashioned, black, dialling telephone, similar to the one that I grew up with! The beds – decorated with plush soft velvet, the headboard with elegant floral, navy and brown tones, with gold accents, and blackout curtains that promise a lie-in. The bathrooms are indulgent with rainfall showers, luxury spa toiletries, and soft robes. 

For families, adjoining rooms and generous layouts make it an easy choice when travelling with children.

A Spa Sanctuary Beneath the Streets

Hidden beneath the historic floors lies one of the city’s most luxurious spas. The 16-metre pool glows with soft lighting, and the thermal suite includes a Himalayan salt sauna, steam room, monsoon experience shower, ice experience, plunge bucket and laconicum. 

Half day, full day, and Spa Stay packages are available, with a delectable afternoon tea available for residents, and equally enticing for non-residents.

The plush poolside loungers and city view seats are the perfect way to slip into a slumber. Enjoy an an ice-cold glass of water or order a glass of fizz or a cocktail from one of the spa attendants.

On top of the luxurious wellness facilities, the hotel offers a modern fitness zone with cardio and strength equipment.

Dining with Soul and Seasonality

The Palm Court Bar takes centre stage, where skilled mixologists create anything from exceptional cocktails to Espresso Martinis and Botanic Negronis. At night, diners retreat to Seaforth Restaurant for creative British plates with a global twist. Afternoon Tea is served in the Botanic Tea room. 

A three-course menu of sandwiches, scones and desserts – with Vegan and Gluten free options also available. We enjoyed the Seaforth Tasting Menu with Wine Pairings at £85pp, or if you prefer Food Only, it’s just £50pp. Take note, the Tasting Menu is only available on Friday evenings.

1ST COURSE

Asparagus & Burrata Peach, 
Wirral watercress, radish, balsamic pearls

2ND COURSE

Chef Greens Famous ‘Lobster Mac’ 
Lemon & garlic crumbs, lobster oil

3RD COURSE

SALT-AGED CREEDY CARVER DUCK BREAST
Smoked aubergine caviar, sprouting broccoli, blue berry jus, chive oil

4TH COURSE

Mint Chocolate Cremeux
Chocolate cremeux, cinder toffee, Lake District vanilla pod ice cream

With fast road links and valet parking, The Municipal is a natural bolthole for Glossy readers. Perfect for couples looking to revive date night, families wanting city culture with five-star comforts, and professionals craving spa serenity without flying abroad. 

This luxury boutique hotel, restaurant and spa is in the heart of Liverpool’s bustling commercial district, a short stroll from Lime Street and Moorfield railway stations and excellent shopping,  restaurants, bars and culture – is proof you don’t have to go far to go somewhere truly special.

OFFER

To celebrate Afternoon Tea Week enjoy 25% OFF traditional afternoon tea Monday to Sunday throughout August 

Book: municipalhotelliverpool.com

By Beverley Uddin-Khandakar