Dakota is gearing up to make a bold statement in airport hospitality with the upcoming launch of its £55 million hotel at Manchester Airport, offering travellers a first glimpse inside the development ahead of its 1 July opening.

The new property, developed by Dakota Hotel Group, has officially opened bookings and released a series of striking computer-generated images showcasing its interiors. Designed as “the destination before the destination,” the seven-storey hotel aims to redefine the pre- and post-flight experience with a focus on comfort, style, and convenience.

Spanning 84,000 square feet, the boutique hotel will feature 154 rooms, including Classic King Rooms and Junior Suites, all styled with Dakota’s signature understated luxury. The visuals also highlight a premium Bar and Grill, expected to serve as a central hub for guests seeking a high-end dining experience without leaving the airport vicinity.

Beyond accommodation, the hotel is positioning itself as more than just a stopover. Guests can expect a range of amenities tailored to both leisure and business travellers, including private dining rooms, flexible event spaces, and an al fresco cigar terrace complete with a humidor. Practical touches such as a dedicated airport shuttle and valet parking further emphasise the brand’s focus on seamless travel.

The opening strengthens Dakota’s presence in Manchester, building on the success of its existing city-centre location. The group has earned a strong reputation in recent years, with consistent high rankings on Tripadvisor and recognition from The Sunday Times as one of the Best Places to Work in both 2024 and 2025.

Matt Townley, Group Operations Director, described the launch of bookings as a “major milestone,” noting that the hotel has been carefully designed to reflect the needs of a highly connected, international audience while staying true to Dakota’s core brand identity.

“Officially opening bookings for Dakota Hotel Manchester Airport marks a major milestone for the project and brings us another step closer to our highly anticipated launch.

“This development has been carefully designed to reflect the signature Dakota experience while responding to the needs of a highly connected, international location. Ahead of our planned 1 July 2026 opening, we’re delighted to be welcoming early interest and look forward to introducing a new standard of luxury hospitality at Manchester Airport.”

With recruitment for senior roles already underway and demand beginning to build, the Manchester Airport hotel is shaping up to be one of Dakota’s most significant projects to date. As the summer opening approaches, the development signals growing competition -and rising expectations - in the UK’s airport hospitality sector.