I couldn’t quite believe my luck when the message popped up saying I’d won – I never win ANYTHING and after months of being stuck in the house, this was the dreamiest prize ever.  

We’d visited the hotel pre-lockdown for dinner and have always been huge fans of Dakota Hotels, but we weren’t quite sure what to expect in these ‘Covid-19 times’. However, as our masked chauffeur turned up to drive us (in style, may I add) to the biggest suite in Manchester, I didn’t have a care in the world.  

Instantly welcomed by the friendliest staff on arrival, the hotel reception was just as beautiful as I remembered. There were hand sanitiser stations in every corner, temperature checkers and free masks for guests, which I thought was a really nice touch.  

We were met by the lovely Maria, who took us through the details of our stay – dinner was included, which we could have in the room if that made us feel more comfortable and breakfast in bed the morning after. Maria then guided us to our room and we simply couldn’t keep our cool as she opened the door.  

Greeted by a huge dining space (which had a bottle of champagne and a plate of desserts ready and waiting), a floating fireplace and the most stunning living area, we were in awe. The suite has a massive wrap-around balcony with two different seating areas, where you can relax and take in all the sights of Manchester. We were then taken on a tour (yes, it was actually THAT big) which included the pantry, the first bathroom, the bedroom, the dressing space, the second bathroom with a steam shower and the THIRD bathroom with waterfall showers and a gigantic bath tub.