Inside Mollie's Manchester (Video): 128 Design-Led Bedrooms Bringing New Life To Granada Studios
The Beatles filmed their first TV appearance here in 1962. So did The Sex Pistols appearing on Tony Wilson’s ‘So It Goes’ in 1976.
Now after years of quiet, the legendary Granada Studios building is buzzing with life once more as Mollie's Hotel & Diner after the thoughtful renovation of one of Manchester's most significant buildings.
A building steeped in Manchester history
Built in 1956 under the eye of architect Ralph Tubbs, Granada Studios was the UK's first purpose-built television studio. For decades, it was the creative heart of Granada TV, producing everything from Coronation Street to groundbreaking music shows that launched careers and changed British culture.
The modernist building, with its striking glass and grey-granite façade, became synonymous with Granada's mission to represent "the culture, creativity and diversity" of the North. When the red Granada sign was finally removed in 2010, it felt like the end of an era. But the end no more…
Mollie's brings new energy to Quay Street
This is Mollie's first city centre site and their largest yet at 100,000 square feet. After successful roadside locations in Bristol and Oxfordshire, they're bringing their distinctive design-led, value-luxe approach to the heart of Manchester - a big milestone for the brand.
The project has been about balance - preserving the character that makes this building special whilst creating modern spaces that work for today's guests.
Every decision, from retaining the iconic 1950s glass and granite façade to working with local Manchester artists on bespoke pieces throughout, has been made with respect for what came before.
Luxe look, easy style across 128 rooms
Mollie's Manchester brings the brand's distinctive aesthetic to the city centre with 128 rooms and suites spanning five floors. Each room embraces that 'luxe look, easy style' philosophy - retro, design-led interiors that feel elevated without being fussy.
Dark wood oak panelling and natural oak finishes paired with terrazzo details create a warm, sophisticated atmosphere. Every room features a Hypnos bed with Egyptian cotton sheets, high-pressure rainshowers, Conran furniture and super-fast WiFi.
Guests can choose from several room types including:
Classic rooms - offer all the essentials with dark wood oak panelling, terrazzo details and king-size beds - perfect for couples or solo travellers seeking comfort and style.
Classic twin rooms - provide the same luxe interiors with two single beds, ideal for friends or colleagues travelling together.
Accessible rooms - deliver all the Mollie's comfort and style with thoughtful adaptations, featuring king-size beds and full accessibility throughout.
Bunk rooms - provide a fun option with four comfy singles, ideal for friends travelling together or families wanting a bit more adventure.
Comfy rooms - step things up with all the luxe essentials plus your own kitchenette and lounge area.
Studio rooms - offer generous space with king-size beds, a full lounge area, kitchenette and a large bathroom for those wanting extra room to spread out.
Suites - delivers the full Mollie's experience as the most luxurious option. These rooms feature freestanding bath tubs, walk-in wardrobes, lounge spaces and even Peloton bikes for guests looking to fit in a bit of exercise.
Hotel guests can also access the building’s state-of-the-art gym, sauna and wellness facilities.
Beyond the bedrooms, Mollie's Manchester features a 140 cover classic American diner on the ground floor and a cavernous basement bar called Studio IV, serving up swanky cocktails, cold beers and live music.
Celebrating Manchester's creative community
What makes this project special is how it connects the building's history with Manchester's current creative energy. Mollie's has worked with local Manchester-based artists to create bespoke pieces throughout the building, celebrating everything from the city's musical heritage to its sporting achievements.
The art collection brings together emerging talent and established artists whose work reflects the powerhouse that is the North of England. It's exactly the kind of approach that would have made the original Granada TV founders proud.
A project close to home
As a specialist Manchester fit out contractor, this project means something extra to us. Granada Studios isn't just a building - it's part of our city's DNA. Being trusted by Allied London to help write its next chapter has been brilliant.
Every member of our team, our fantastic subcontractors and suppliers have understood what this project represents. The care and attention they've brought to every detail - from the heritage preservation work to the cutting-edge facilities - shows what happens when people are genuinely invested in what they're building.
From the north
Mollie's Manchester opens as part of a broader transformation of this corner of the city. Sharing the building with the North of England's first Soho House, it signals Manchester's continued evolution as a creative and cultural destination.
Granada TV's mantra was always "from the north" - and now this building is ready to champion northern creativity all over again.
The Beatles and the Sex Pistols helped make history here. Now it's time for the next generation to take the stage.
