When you think of the classic Manchester skyline, chances are you picture bridges, Manchester Central, and the Beetham Tower, poking out amongst the factory and warehouse buildings. The skyline has changed dramatically over the past 20 years, with the likes of Deansgate Square and Viadux being built at rapid speed, but Beetham Tower has been a constant – as has the name Hilton Hotel, bestowed by its owners. The building has been owned by the Hiltons (yes, as in Paris) since it was built in 2006, but now Manchester’s iconic Hilton Hotel has officially changed ownership, becoming The Manchester Deansgate Hotel, by IHG.
In a statement on social media, the Manchester Denagsate Hotel said: “Our name has changed, but this is so much more than a new logo. It marks the beginning of a new chapter to become the InterContinental Manchester.
“During this entire journey, and as the hotel undergoes an exciting transformation, we’ll all be here in person to answer any questions, and of course, to make sure you receive the same exceptional levels of service you have come to expect.”
Instagram post via @mcrdeansgatehotel
The Hilton Hotel is just one in a line of Manchester institutions that have gone through a name change, but the likelihood is many will use the old name anyway. Just think of Manchester Arena, the GMEX and Urbis – we all know what we mean.
The Beetham Tower is 168.87 metres (554ft) tall, and was the tallest building outside London, and the highest living space in the UK, at the time of completion. It stands 47 storeys above the city centre, but the tower was originally planned to stand at 171m (561ft) tall, being changed because of local wind conditions – Deansgate‘s length potentially not helping.
In 2006, Beetham Tower was Manchester’s first true skyscraper, dwarfing all other structures in Manchester and seemed to hint at a vision of the future – which certainly materialised. The Beetham Tower – and Hilton Hotel – seemed to kick off the metropolis we know today, and remains the most recognisable building in Manchester, no matter what its name is.