In 1895, a bold new building was completed on Oxford Street; the headquarters of Refuge Assurance. With its intricate terracotta façade and towering clock, it quickly became one of Manchester’s most iconic landmarks.
130 years later, that same building is now the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, and it’s time to celebrate a remarkable journey of architecture, community and unforgettable stories.
We’re marking this 130-year anniversary in true Kimpton style with an immersive new exhibition, a heartfelt look back through Manchester’s history, and a massive giveaway of 130 incredible prizes for our most loyal guests and followers.
Whether you’ve stayed with us before, wandered through our halls, or admired the building from afar – your chance to step inside, look bac, and celebrate the future.
🕰️ Introducing “Clocking Manchester: 130 Years in the City’s Evolving Skyline”
Launches 12 June 2025 | Free Entry | Refuge, Kimpton Clocktower Hotel
This immersive new exhibition transforms the walls of Refuge Bar & Dining Room into a living timeline of Manchester’s changing skyline told through rare archival photographs, personal stories, and never-before-seen architectural drawings. Did you know the building’s iconic clocktower wasn’t even in the original plans?
You’ll discover the people behind the building too, from employees who fell in love on the job to guests who returned decades later with stories to tell. Add your own memories in our interactive guestbook and help shape the next chapter of this Manchester icon.
Join Our Mailing List & Win One of 130 Incredible Giveaways
To celebrate this special anniversary, we’re giving away 130 exclusive Kimpton-inspired prizes — but only to our email subscribers!
From gourmet treats to luxury getaways, here’s a taste of what you could win:
Overnight Escapes
- Complimentary stays in our signature rooms
- VIP night in Suite No.51, Manchester’s first 3-bedroom suite
- Romantic weekend getaways with breakfast & bubbly
Dining & Drinks
- Chef’s tasting menus at Refuge
- Afternoon tea for two
- Cocktail-making masterclass
- Champagne welcome at your next dinner
Curated Kimpton Surprises
- Artisan chocolate gift boxes
- Custom Kimpton robes & slippers
- Spa treatments & in-room massage sessions
- Manchester-made treats from local partners
- Limited-edition souvenirs
Experiences That Make You Feel Like a VIP
- Private behind-the-scenes tour of the hotel
- Naming rights for a new signature cocktail
- Framed archival prints from the exhibition
Whether you’re a local with a story to tell, or a traveller discovering Manchester for the first time, this is your invitation to step inside a legend, celebrate 130 years, and win something wonderful along the way.
Sign up now to our mailing list for your chance to win!
📍 Exhibition Details
Where: Refuge Bar & Dining Room, Kimpton Clocktower Hotel
When: From 12pm on 12 June 2025
Admission: Absolutely free
Follow the journey. Share your story. Be part of history.
#ClockingManchester #Kimpton130
Terms & Conditions apply. All experiences are subject to availability. Workshops must be booked in advance of stay.