City Tower, Manchester: Iconic Commercial Skyscraper at the Heart of the City
Manchester’s iconic 30-storey skyscraper offering premium office spaces and panoramic city views in the heart of the vibrant city centre.
City Tower stands as one of Manchester’s most prominent skyscrapers, rising 107 meters over 30 floors. Originally built in 1967 and recently refurbished, it is a landmark of modern business and urban regeneration, offering premium office spaces in the city centre near Piccadilly Gardens. Its striking international style architecture and panoramic city views make it a key feature of Manchester’s evolving skyline.
A brief summary to City Tower, Manchester
- City Tower, New York St, Manchester, M1 4BT, GB
- +441612363713
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to experience the vibrant business atmosphere and access office amenities.
- Explore nearby Piccadilly Gardens and the Northern Quarter for dining and cultural experiences after business hours.
- Take advantage of the panoramic views from upper floors if you have access to the Skylounge or business lounges.
- Use public transport via Piccadilly station or Piccadilly Gardens tram and bus stops for convenient access.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Manchester Piccadilly train station is approximately a 5-minute walk from City Tower, offering frequent regional and national rail services. Tickets range from £5 to £25 depending on destination.
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Tram
The Metrolink tram service stops at Piccadilly Gardens, adjacent to City Tower, with trams running every 6-12 minutes. Single fares start at £2.50.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Piccadilly Gardens, providing extensive coverage across Manchester. Buses run frequently during weekdays with fares typically £2-£4 per journey.
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Car
On-site car parking is available at City Tower, but spaces are limited and charges apply. Expect parking fees of approximately £10-£20 per day. Traffic congestion may occur during peak hours.
City Tower, Manchester location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about City Tower, Manchester
Architectural Significance and Historical Context
City Tower, originally known as Sunley House, was completed in 1967 and embodies the international style of architecture prevalent in that era. Rising to 107 meters with 30 floors, it ranks as one of Manchester’s tallest buildings and a significant example of mid-20th-century commercial skyscraper design. Its concrete and glass façade reflects the modernist movement’s emphasis on function and simplicity, contrasting with the Victorian architecture surrounding it. Over the decades, the building has witnessed Manchester's transformation from an industrial hub to a vibrant commercial city.Modern Refurbishment and Urban Regeneration
In recent years, City Tower underwent a comprehensive refurbishment led by local architects Covell, Matthews & Partners. This modernization introduced new glass panels and digital screens, revitalizing its exterior and interior spaces. The refurbishment has reestablished City Tower as a symbol of Mancunian regeneration, attracting businesses back to its floors with contemporary office layouts, high-speed lifts, and upgraded amenities. The building now features a modern reception area and flexible workspaces, blending historic stature with current commercial demands.Location and Connectivity
Situated on New York Street adjacent to Piccadilly Gardens, City Tower enjoys a prime central location in Manchester’s bustling city centre. It offers exceptional connectivity with Manchester Piccadilly train station just a short walk away, and immediate access to tram and bus services at Piccadilly Gardens. This strategic position places City Tower at the nexus of public transport routes, retail districts like Market Street, and cultural hotspots such as the Northern Quarter, making it highly accessible for commuters and visitors alike.Facilities and Amenities
City Tower provides a comprehensive range of facilities tailored to modern businesses. These include air-conditioned office floors with options for open-plan or cellular layouts, suspended ceilings, recessed lighting, and conferencing rooms. The building supports sustainable commuting with an on-site Greater Manchester Cycle Hub, secure bicycle storage, and dedicated showers. Tenants benefit from 24/7 concierge services, on-site car parking, and a business lounge on the 28th floor offering panoramic city views. Ground-floor amenities include shops, food outlets, and a gym, creating a vertical business district within the tower.Visual Impact and Skyline Presence
From Piccadilly Gardens and surrounding areas, City Tower stands out as a distinctive landmark, its sleek modernist design contrasting with Manchester’s historic architecture. While new developments continue to rise and alter the city skyline, City Tower remains a prominent feature, offering unrivalled 360-degree views from its upper floors. Its presence marks the eastern gateway to Manchester’s central business district and contributes to the city’s architectural diversity.Role in Manchester’s Business Landscape
As a major business centre, City Tower hosts a variety of corporate tenants and executive search firms, reflecting Manchester’s economic dynamism. The building’s flexible office solutions, including fully furnished suites branded as Elevate, cater to evolving workstyles and foster long-term partnerships between landlords and occupiers. Its blend of history, modernity, and location consolidates City Tower’s role as a cornerstone of Manchester’s commercial identity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.2 km
A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
Arch of Chinatown
0.3 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Connaught Building
0.3 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
St. Peter's Square
0.4 km
Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Manchester City Council
0.4 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
John Bright Statue
0.5 km
A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Albert Memorial
0.5 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
0.5 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
Dalton Entry
0.5 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Mulberry Passage
0.5 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
Victory Over Blindness
0.5 km
A powerful bronze memorial at Manchester Piccadilly honoring WWI veterans blinded in battle, symbolizing resilience and solidarity at eye level.
Canada House, Manchester
0.6 km
Discover Canada House, a majestic Grade II listed cotton warehouse in Manchester, embodying the city’s rich industrial heritage and architectural splendor.
Historic England
0.6 km
Explore the rich heritage of England at Historic England in Manchester, where history meets preservation and community engagement.
Free Trade Hall
0.6 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
0.6 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Piccadilly Gardens
0.1 km
Manchester’s central green space blending historic charm, modern design, and vital transport connections in a lively urban setting.
The Portico Library
0.2 km
Discover Manchester’s historic Portico Library, a Greek Revival architectural gem and vibrant cultural hub since 1806.
Chinatown
0.2 km
Discover Manchester Chinatown’s vibrant streets filled with authentic Asian cuisine, rich culture, and festive charm in the city’s heart.
Blue Rinse Manchester and Kilo Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures by the kilo in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, blending style with sustainability.
Empire Exchange
0.3 km
Dive into Manchester’s eclectic Empire Exchange, a treasure trove of vintage comics, vinyl, and collectibles where every visit uncovers a new story.
Manchester Art Gallery
0.3 km
Explore centuries of art and design in Manchester’s historic and dynamic city-centre gallery with free entry and family-friendly spaces.
Afflecks
0.3 km
Explore Manchester’s legendary alternative indoor market, home to over 60 independent traders and a vibrant hub of creativity and culture.
DNA VR Manchester
0.3 km
Step into Manchester’s premier VR arcade where immersive games, escape rooms, and free-roam adventures bring virtual worlds to life.
Grey Horse Inn
0.3 km
Experience the heart of Manchester at the Grey Horse Inn, where delicious food, local brews, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Breakout Manchester Church Street
0.3 km
Experience thrilling, immersive escape rooms on Manchester’s Church Street with diverse themes and challenging puzzles for all skill levels.
Shops
0.3 km
Discover Oldham Street, Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter hotspot for vintage fashion, indie shops, live music, and authentic urban culture.
Market St
0.3 km
Manchester’s bustling pedestrian retail street linking major stations with iconic shops and vibrant city life.
The Cockatoo Club
0.3 km
Manchester’s vibrant cabaret hotspot offering dazzling drag shows, lively bars, and unforgettable LGBTQ+ nightlife in the heart of the Gay Village.
DRY BAR
0.3 km
Discover the lively ambiance and eclectic music scene at DRY BAR, a premier bar and nightclub in Manchester's vibrant nightlife.
The Molly House
0.4 km
Discover the delightful atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings at The Molly House, Manchester's favorite bar and restaurant for tapas and drinks.
Essential places to dine
Namii Kitchen & Cocktails
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Vietnamese and pan-Asian flavors with creative cocktails in Manchester’s lively city centre.
Higher Ground
0.1 km
A vibrant Manchester bistro blending seasonal British produce with sustainable ethos and refined, shareable dishes in a modern, welcoming setting.
Browns Manchester
0.2 km
Victorian elegance meets contemporary British cuisine in Manchester's most distinguished brasserie.
Grand Pacific
0.3 km
Experience Manchester’s gothic-inspired Pan-Asian cocktail bar with stunning décor, lively atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks in the city center.
Pieminister Manchester
0.3 km
Savor award-winning British pies in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, where tradition meets modern comfort food in a lively, welcoming setting.
Sam's Chop House
0.4 km
Experience traditional British chophouse dining with locally sourced ingredients in Manchester’s cozy, historic atmosphere.
Tariff & Dale
0.4 km
Historic industrial charm meets modern British cuisine and inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter.
Kala
0.4 km
Modern European bistro blending classic and contemporary flavours in Manchester’s vibrant King Street district.
PUPA Restaurant & Bar
0.4 km
Authentic Mediterranean charcoal grill and vibrant atmosphere in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, perfect for steak lovers and lively dining.
Habesha Restaurant
0.4 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine and warm hospitality at Habesha Restaurant, Manchester’s beloved spot for traditional injera and hearty stews.
Sicilian NQ - Restaurant and Bar
0.4 km
Authentic Sicilian cuisine and vibrant bar life in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, famed for arancini and inclusive vegan options.
Store Street Exchange Restaurant
0.4 km
Modern British dining with rotisserie specialties and craft cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly hub.
Evuna NQ
0.4 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant hospitality in Manchester’s Northern Quarter at Evuna NQ, a lively hub for food, wine, and culture.
10 Tib Lane
0.4 km
A refined French-inspired restaurant and cocktail bar in Manchester’s historic core, blending seasonal small plates with natural wines and crafted cocktails.
Turtle Bay Manchester Northern Quarter
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively island vibes in Manchester’s Northern Quarter at Turtle Bay.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Manchester Souvenirs & Convenience Store
0.1 km
Discover authentic Manchester souvenirs and essentials in the heart of the city, blending culture, convenience, and community spirit.
The Manchester Shop
0.2 km
Discover Manchester's soul in bee motifs, music tees, and proud souvenirs at this Northern Quarter gem within Afflecks Arcade.
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
0.3 km
A vibrant Chinese art and craft gallery in Manchester’s Chinatown, showcasing handcrafted treasures and cultural heritage in a warm, welcoming space.
needi
0.3 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts with expert personal service in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly at Needi.
Red and Blue Umbrella
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and friendly service at Manchester’s Red and Blue Umbrella vintage clothing shop on Church Street.
Laissez Faire UK Fairtrade & Eco Clothes & Gifts
0.3 km
Discover fairtrade and eco-friendly fashion and gifts in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Church Street district.
Stare Society
0.3 km
Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
Cow Vintage Manchester
0.3 km
Discover trend-led vintage fashion and sustainable style in Manchester’s creative Northern Quarter at Cow Vintage.
Thunder Egg
0.3 km
Dive into a rainbow of quirky fashion and gifts at Thunder Egg, Manchester's colorful boutique for unique vintage-inspired styles and playful outfits.
Amazonas Gifts
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Amazonas Gifts, nestled in the heart of Manchester Markets Piccadilly.
Menkind
0.4 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, Manchester Arndale’s vibrant destination for fun and innovative presents.
Pop Boutique
0.4 km
Tucked into Oldham Street, Pop Boutique is Manchester’s well-curated vintage emporium for mid-century to 1990s fashion finds and eclectic accessories.
Fred Aldous Ltd
0.4 km
Manchester’s vibrant, family-run arts and crafts emporium with 30,000 products, vintage photo booths, and a creative spirit spanning over 130 years.
Suzylovesmilo concept store
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Suzylovesmilo, Manchester’s curated concept store blending Japanese influences with local creativity.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.4 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alchemist New York Street
0.1 km
A captivating cocktail theatre and dining experience blending molecular mixology with global cuisine in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
NQ64 Northern Quarter
0.3 km
Retro arcade bar blasting 80s-90s nostalgia with neon cocktails, token games, and basement buzz in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
All Bar One Manchester
0.3 km
Stylish wine bar on Manchester’s King Street offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a lively, modern atmosphere for casual dining and drinks.
The Daisy
0.3 km
Parisian subterranean cocktail haven in Manchester's Northern Quarter: eclectic vibes, masterful drinks, and weekend DJ magic beneath Evelyn's.
Night & Day Cafe
0.3 km
Manchester's intimate live music heartbeat in the Northern Quarter—where legends launched and nights ignite with raw indie energy.
Dusk Til Pawn
0.4 km
Secretive pawn-shop façade, intimate speakeasy interior and a menu of inventive cocktails in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
Wilson's Social
0.4 km
All-day Northern Quarter hub: brunch by day, cocktails and beats by night in a multi-level party palace with pool, courtyard, and private den.
Flok
0.4 km
Lively pub with excellent drinks and friendly vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife.
7Sins, Northern Quarter
0.4 km
A vibrant basement bar and gaming hub in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, mixing cocktails, pool, arcade games, and dance club energy.
Science And Industry
0.4 km
Sophisticated cocktails and a stylish vibe await you at Science and Industry, the first-floor bar of Cane & Grain in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
Hold Fast Bar
0.4 km
Dive into Manchester's Northern Quarter basement gem: nautical vibes, retro tiles, banging tunes, and chill nights at Hold Fast Bar.
The Fitzgerald
0.4 km
Velvet seats, craft cocktails and live jazz in a 1920s‑inspired Manchester speakeasy with a stage for cabaret and private hire.
Salt Dog Slim's Manchester
0.4 km
Dive into Salt Dog Slim's Manchester for bold cocktails, American-style hot dogs, and a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of the city.
Wolf at the Door
0.4 km
A vibrant Northern Quarter bar serving innovative tapas-style bao buns, craft cocktails, and a lively urban atmosphere.
Behind Closed Doors
0.4 km
Descend into debauched delight at this Northern Quarter speakeasy, where retro telephones summon saucy cocktails amid erotic art, neon booths, and funky DJ beats until 4am.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Twenty Twenty Two
0.3 km
Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
Satans Hollow
0.3 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Club Tropicana
0.4 km
Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.
Funkademia
0.4 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
Mint Lounge
0.4 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Aatma
0.4 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Cargo
0.5 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Club Liv Manchester
0.6 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Venue Nightclub
0.6 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
0.7 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
42's
0.7 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Bijou Club
0.8 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Viva Manchester
0.8 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Kable
0.8 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
0.8 km
Dive into Manchester's most inclusive queer rave: grungy beats, diverse dancers, and unapologetic joy at YDSA Events in Ancoats.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
