Liverpool finally has a five-star hotel, according to the AA's industry-recognised ratings.
The Municipal Hotel and Spa in Liverpool city centre has achieved AA's five-star designation, becoming the first and sole establishment in the city to attain this prestigious status.
The Dale Street property, which forms part of Accor's MGallery hotel collection, now ranks amongst Britain's finest hotels, fewer than three years since welcoming its first guests.
Previously, The Hillbark Hotel and Spa in Frankby represented Merseyside's sole five-star accommodation option.
After examining the Municipal, the AA inspectors commended the establishment for its beauty, charm, grandeur, character, and luxurious touches, reports .
They observed that service standards remained consistently high, underpinned by a robust hospitality ethos with staff committed to guest satisfaction.
Regarding the property, the AA overview stated: "The Municipal Hotel and Spa MGallery Liverpool is a luxurious hotel set within a beautiful Grade II–listed landmark in the heart of the city, crowned by a grand clocktower.
"This former government building has been transformed into a contemporary space while retaining much of its original features, grandeur and charm. Rooms range from cosy classics to lavish suites, all designed with meticulous attention to detail.
"Enjoy all-day dining in the grand Palm Court atrium bar, dinner and breakfast in its adjacent Seaforth Brasserie restaurant, or indulge in afternoon tea at the Botanic Tearoom. A modern spa, a fully equipped gym, an attentive team and the signature Bath Butler service complete the experience."
Regarding its five-star-rated establishments, the AA said: "AA-rated five-star hotels in the º£½ÇÊÓƵ offer luxury stays and top-notch amenities to travellers seeking a sophisticated and indulgent experience.
"These hotels are known for their opulent deÌcor, world-class dining options, and exceptional customer service. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a luxurious base for exploring the sights, a 5-star hotel is sure to impress."
In addition to securing the five-star AA rating for the establishment, Seaforth, a brasserie-style eatery at The Municipal, has received an AA Rosette, a recognition for culinary excellence bestowed upon restaurants across the º£½ÇÊÓƵ based on food quality.
Set within the former council chambers, the historic Grade II listed Municipal Building on Dale Street, the establishment represents the outcome of a £70 million restoration project.
The venue launched in May 2023 and comprises 179 guest rooms, a restaurant, an afternoon tearoom, a bar and a spa facility.
The property also features the Palm Court Bar, Seaforth restaurant, the Botanic Tea Room and the Thermae Spa, which includes a 16-metre indoor swimming pool offering city vistas, a sauna, a steam room, a laconium, experience showers and a hot tub. Annie Brown, general manager, said: "We're incredibly proud to have received five-star status from the AA and to have been awarded an AA Rosette for Seaforth.
"These awards are a true testament to the unwavering passion, dedication and hard work of our excellent teams who consistently go above and beyond to provide exceptional service and create lasting memories for our guests."
Beyond securing the AA five-star rating for The Municipal Hotel and Spa and an AA Rosette for Seaforth, The Municipal has also recently earned a place on the shortlist for Large Hotel of The Year in the Liverpool Tourism Awards, whilst also being recognised as a finalist in the recently announced Good Spa Guide Awards 2025.
