Staycation – Liverpool’s new INNSiDE by Melia
| 21st October 2021
Staycation: Nothing beats a mini-break and the spanking new INNSiDE by Melia is a gorgeous spot to enjoy the lively grandeur Liverpool has to offer as VIVA ventured out for much-needed change of scene.
You could just stay there and make the most of its contemporary stylish vibe as it boasts an in-house Gino D’Acampo (Old Hall Street) restaurant, which sprawls over much of the lobby and 360-degree sky bar, also run by the much-loved Italian chef.
This is a great plus point for the hotel as it means there’s a lively and fabulous eatery (and bar) just a lift ride away and none of the stuffiness or ‘wedding type’ fare that’s often on offer, but more of that later.
We had a studio room on the 15th floor with an almost panoramic view over the Mersey and distant Welsh hills, which was both chic and spacious.
The hotel is the former Echo and Daily Post building that INNSiDE Liverpool has given a new lease of life to one of the city’s most iconic structures, which is ideally placed to allow you to explore the heart of the city.
All rooms have high-speed Wi-Fi and in-room mini fridges, all muted greys and comfy beds with nice touches from dressing gowns and slippers, clothes steamer, hairdryer and coffee makers. There was even a warm welcome written on our mirror.
Liverpool’s new INNSiDE by Melia is the perfect space to enjoy a staycation
In fact, INNSiDE Liverpool upgraded rooms include 25 studio rooms, 26 townhouse suites and one standout condo suite featuring separate bedroom, living space and dining area.
It’s incredible value for money with double room rates starting from £109 (room only) and from £129 (bed & breakfast). INNSiDE Liverpool is also offering a special opening rate of 45% off best available rate for Meliá Rewards members, or 30% off for non-members, which is valid for bookings until the 2nd of December.
We loved it as a base and with its separate work area our toom would be idea if you’re visiting to work but also works for romance or if you’re mates going ‘out out’.
After checking in we went to explore and on your doorstep there’s Exchange Flags where we dropped into El Gato Negro for a quick bite (three tapas dishes are £15 in their lunchtime deal) which is a very pretty space and the quality you expect.
We also wondered into Bouchon, a charming bistro style bar where we had a cracking Bloody Mary and the menu looked great too, including an excellent wine list and oysters which we wished we’d had time to go back and enjoy.
Onto Liverpool One where we enjoyed a few drinks in the many bars dotted overlooking the Mersey and perfect to enjoy the hazy Autumnal sunshine.
Back to change and brush up, we had an hour to kill so popped out for a pre pre drink and discovered the utterly charming City Bar, where we enjoyed good pint and again wished we had more time as the vibying venue had an enticing menu and drinks offer. Check it out.
Liverpool’s new INNSiDE by Melia is the perfect space to enjoy a staycation
Then it was back to the hotel and onwards and literally upwards to Gino’s new 360 Sky Bar on the 18th floor of the hotel with unrivalled panoramic views of the city and beyond, set to be one of the city’s most desirable locations, with local resident DJ’s further elevating the atmosphere from day to night.
It was buzzing with the DJ pumping an extensive prosecco menu and fabulous cocktails from just short of nine pounds. The views are fantastic and whilst the weather didn’t quite oblige with a sunset it’s worth the trip to enjoy the views.
Backdown to the lobby and Gino’s restaurant was wonderfully busy, leagues away from normal hotel eateries. It’s traditional Italian and doesn’t disappoint as we enjoyed pate and garlic bread to start (starters from £6.95), a great ragu and lamb main, with mains from £11.25, followed by cheese. The wine list (bottles are from £27) is also a delight.
After a wonderful night’s sleep, it was down too breakfast served in Gino’s and again this was way above the standard of normal fare. Coffee was rich and steaming hot whilst the buffet was plentiful. You can go full English from the steaming hot buffet which was gorgeous with tasty bacon and everything else you wanted.
Whilst the continental was indulgent with the pastries, cheeses, fruit and all the bits you want from a top-notch table. You can ask for eggs how you want and there’s a breakfast menu of eggs benedict and other goodies from £6, if you’re not staying at the hotel.
INNSiDE Liverpool has also collaborated with ‘A Slower Space’ which features an impressive floral concept store at the entrance to the hotel, and a stunning living wall, providing the perfect backdrop for staycation photo moments.
INNSiDE Liverpool has also partnered with independent local art gallery, dot-art, as a reflection of the hotel’s commitment to local art, with a showcase of collections from local artists across the hotel’s suites and public spaces.
For those that keep wellness at the top of their list when travelling, INNSiDE Liverpool is also home to a stylish fitness hub, complete with state-of-the-art gym equipment and Wexer technology, available for guest use 24-hours a day.
With an unparalleled virtual class library that brings the world’s leading fitness brands and ambassadors direct to INNSiDE Liverpool, Wexer gym-tech offers hundreds of classes, from cardio and conditioning to mind & body, all from top instructors.
All in all, fabulous way to enjoy a staycation! Follow them on Instagram: @innside_by_melia_uk or visit www.innside.com/liverpool to book and for further information.