For two decades, Beetham Tower has played an integral part of Manchester’s ever changing skyline. This year, as The Manchester Deansgate Hotel by IHG celebrates its 20th anniversary, its beloved sky bar, Cloud 23, is reimagining its popular afternoon tea with a Manchester twist.
The new Sky High Afternoon Tea is as Mancunian as it gets. Every element of the experience celebrates the city’s character – from desserts inspired by its most iconic buildings to sandwiches made with locally loved ingredients like Martin’s Bakery bread and Mrs Kirkham’s cheese. Even the scones and playful Vimto jam pay homage to Manchester’s culinary heritage. Paired with sweeping views from 23 floors up, it’s a truly unique experience that combines the city’s spirit in every bite. All guests will be provided with a pair of binoculars, encouraging them to take in the finer details of the city from Cloud 23’s unrivalled viewpoint.
Desserts take centre stage, each inspired by the buildings that define modern Manchester. Guests can expect a showstopping selection that includes:
- Goat’s curd cheesecake with caramelised fig and ginger, inspired by the grandeur of the Trafford Centre
- Manchester honey mousse with basil, lemon and charcoal, echoing the industrial charm of the Science and Industry Museum
- Manchester Tart – raspberry, custard and coconut – a nod to the gothic beauty of Manchester Town Hall
- Dark chocolate, popcorn and salted caramel creation, inspired by the energy of the Etihad Stadium
The sandwiches are all about nostalgic, local flavours, made with fresh bread from Manchester’s much loved Martin’s Bakery. Guests can expect:
- Betty’s Beef Hot Pot on white – tender Cumbrian beef brisket, caramelised onion and Mrs Kirkham’s cheese
- Roast Chicken Thigh on brown – with tarragon, Manchester honey and mustard
- Hot Smoked Salmon on white – with preserved lemon and charcoal butter
- Classic Cucumber on brown – Lancashire cream cheese and black truffle
- Coronation Egg Mayonnaise on brioche – with mango and lime chutney yoghurt
Freshly baked plain and Granny Smith apple & cinnamon scones are served warm with Cornish clotted cream, strawberry preserve and a playful homemade Vimto jam – a sweet nod to one of Manchester’s most famous creations.
The Traditional Afternoon Tea is priced at £35 per person and includes the full savoury and sweet selection paired with unlimited teas. Guests can choose from an extensive range including black, herbal, white and Oolong varieties. For £10 per person, guests can also elevate the experience with a glass of Castelnau Classique Brut NV or one of Cloud 23’s signature cocktails, adding a little extra sparkle to the skyline.
A dedicated Kids’ Afternoon Tea (£17.50) is also available, featuring child-friendly favourites with unlimited teas, juices and cordials – perfect for family celebrations high above the city.
As The Manchester Deansgate Hotel by IHG marks 20 years on Manchester’s skyline, the Sky High Afternoon Tea celebrates the city’s spirit. Ideal for birthdays, baby showers, or catching up with friends, it’s a distinctly Mancunian experience filled with local produce and panoramic views that have defined the city for two decades.
The Sky High Afternoon Tea is served every day from 12 – 4:45 pm and is available to book now at The Manchester Deansgate Hotel by IHG.
For more information or to make a reservation, please visit the hotel’s website here.
