Manchester is one of those cities in which there's always something going on, so you might not actually be spending that much time at your temporary abode. However, you'll still want it to nail the basics and this studio right in the heart of the city does this and more. The windows facing up towards the sky make sure that the space is full of natural light, while the kitchen is a sleek mix of neat tiling and white cupboards that will have you covered if you ever decide to take a night off the city's ample supply of restaurants. Elsewhere in the building, there's a communal gym that guests can take advantage of, so there are no excuses for skipping early morning workouts — even if you have been out for a late-night boogie in the bars on Canal Street, only a minute's walk away. Manchester Art Gallery is only six minutes away on foot if you prefer a more sedate affair.

Home truths:
*There's a sofa-bed that can accommodate an extra guest, although this must be requested beforehand and there isn't much privacy if it's set up
*The building has a reception open twenty-four hours a day, as well as round-the-clock security
*There's a lift in the building and the apartment itself is step-free