Here are the top 20 bars in Manchester to enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the city.
1. The Alchemist - Spinningfields
The Alchemist - Spinningfields is in the heart of Manchester's financial district, a prime location attracting a diverse and cosmopolitan clientele. Founded by Simon Potts and his team in 2010, this bar has mastered the art of mixology with the science of molecular gastronomy. The Alchemist adds a unique touch of drama at every step, and the showstopper is the "rhythm machine," a contraption that mixes cocktails using a series of pipes, gears, and pulleys. The extended outdoor terrace offers a 360-degree view of the city skyline, making it perfect for an evening drink.Must Try
The must-try is the “Color Changing One” - a specially crafted vodka that changes color from blue to pink with the addition of a citrus blend. You can also try the Hip Flask Margarita with orange bitters and apricot or the all-time famous Cherry Poppins with strawberry and Whitley Neill Raspberry Gin. Other significant hits include Pina Colada, Bloody Mary, Cosmopolitan, Frube, Pinot Grigio Sparkling Rose, and more.Address: 3 Hardman StreetManchester, Greater Manchester M3 3HF
Timings: Saturday 5pm - 2am, Sunday 1pm - 6pm
Contact: 0161 817 2950
Approximate cost for two: GBP 80 - GBP 90
2. Cottonopolis Food & Liquor
The warm lighting and the welcoming ambiance of this stylish bar on Manchester's Newton Street have attracted crowds since 2015. Cottonopolis Food & Liquor Bar pays homage to the history of Manchester with its design and menu. The ambiance is chic and relaxed, with elegant Japanese touches such as ornate lanterns and minimalist furnishings. Specializing in authentic Japanese cuisine, the food is flavorsome and is header by famous head chef Joe Grant. From Japanese fried chicken and waffles to sushi rice - it's a must-try for anybody exploring Manchester's different flavors. Cottonopolis offers a unique music program that features both live acts and DJs.Must Try
Unique Japanese and Asian gins are famous here, like the Etsu Gin, Kinobi, Roku Gin, Kokoro, and many more. Try as many cocktails inspired by seasonal Japanese ingredients, starting from the Raisu with White Miso and Mirin, Poppukon, Twirling Geisha with Baisl Ketel One Vodka, and the French Exit with Lillet Blanc. There is also a traditional way of serving spirits; you can try N*2, N*3, and others.Address: Newton SS Street, Manchester M1 2AE
Timings:12:00 PM to Midnight
Contact: [email protected]
Approximate cost for two: GBP 70 - GBP - 803.
3. Albert's Schloss
Located in Peter Street, Albert's Schloss is owned by Mission Mars group and has been the heartthrob of Manchester since 2015. Once you enter Albert's, you notice that The decor is inspired by traditional Bavarian beer halls, with long wooden benches, large murals, and antler chandeliers. The bar offers a wide range of German-inspired dishes such as schnitzel, sausages, pretzels, and more. Do not worry; there is also a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan options, such as their popular beetroot and lentil burger. The place becomes even more lively with its live DJ, DJ Booth, stage performances, and the elusive beer pipes and tanks network. In food and snacks, the all-time favorite is the schweinshaxe, the Bavarian crispy pork knuckle with horseradish gravy.Must try
The black forest cocktails are filled with new and unique choices, such as Black Cherry Kaiser, Wild Apple Baum, Winterblaume, Pink Preussian, and more. You can try the Bohemian Twists, including the Lady Rhabarber with Tanqueray gin and the Winter Rose MOjito with Havana 3-year rum. Try the unforgettable Mumm Cordon Rouge, Billecart Salmon Brut Reserve, and Louis Roederer Cristal Champagne in Champagne.Address: 27 Peter St, Manchester M2 5QR, UK
Timings: Cook Haus Dining- Monday – Saturday 12:00 PM -10:00 PM, Bier Halle Dining Monday – Saturday 12:00 PM to -6:00 PM, Sunday Service - 12:00 PM -9:00 PM
Contact : +44 161 833 4040
Approximate cost for two: GBP 60 - GBP 80
4. The Refuge by Volta
Suppose you are an art, music, and culinary enthusiast. In that case, the Refuge by Volta bar in the historic Palace Hotel is your ultimate destination for a fun night out in Manchester. It was opened in 2016 by Luke Cowdrey and Justin Crawford. This venue was designed to celebrate Manchester's heritage and creative energy and has several dedicated areas with unique features. This 10,000 sq ft space includes 139-cover restaurants, a private dining room, a winter grader for romantic date nights, a public bar with a mix of jazz and funk, and the Den for celebrating special events.Must Try
Firstly start exploring the beauty of the giant Public Bar at the heart of Refuge. The best sellers include Tipsy Lemonade with Absolut Citron Vodka, Piccadilly Garden Project with Beefeater gin, Fever Tree elderflower tonic, and the Dusk Drunk with Jameson Black Barrel. Gin lovers can also try the Monkey 47, Bloom, Citadelle, and Bathtub. There are a lot of other choices for non-alcoholic drinks, wine, Rum, brandy, scotch, Irish whiskey, and beer and cider on draught. You can club your drink with tasty Public Bar food options like House chopped salad, Chip Shop Curry Sauce Pie, or the Chicken Sandwich.Address: Oxford St, Manchester M60 7HA, United Kingdom
Timings: Mon - Wed - 8:00 AM - 12 Midnight
Thursday - 8:00 AM -1:00 AM
Friday - Saturday - 8:00 AM -2:00 AM
Sunday - 8:00 AM - 11.30 PM
Contact: +44 161 233 5151
Approximate cost for two: GBP 100 - GBP - 120
5. The Whiskey Jar
Located in the heart of Manchester's bustling city lights, the Whiskey Jar is a hidden gem that locals and visitors love. The Whiskey Jar is located in the trendy Northern Quarter of Manchester and is housed in a converted old textile mill. The bar is cozy and intimate, with plenty of seating options, including booths, high tables, and a mezzanine level overlooking the bar. The place is spread across two floors, and the downstairs is dedicatedly primarily to exceptional live music events, including DJ nights and acoustic nights.Must Try
The menu includes classic bar snacks like nachos, chicken wings and more substantial options like sandwiches and salads. If you are a cocktail enthusiast, you can also participate in the Whiskey Jar Cocktail Workshops organized by skilled and award-winning bartenders to learn the art and fun of it.As the name suggests, you will not be disappointed by their comprehensive collections ranging from Hinglandsto to Scottish Isles. In Blended, you can try the Compass Box Spice Tree, Hedonism, Artists Blend, and Spaniard. If you yearn for Japanese taste, try the Togouchi Blended, Nikka Coffey Grain, Hibiki, Hakushu, and others.
Address: 14 Tariff Street, Manchester
Timings: Monday to Sun 12pm - 12am
Contact: 0871 977 4309, [email protected]
Approximate cost for two: GBP 60 - GBP - 80
6. The Fitzgerald
Named after the famous author of the then-era F. Scott Fitzgerald, the bar captures the spirit and ethos of the old bygone era. Nestled in the heart of the city's Northern Quarter, The Fitzgerald offers an immersive experience that transports visitors to the glamor and glitz of the 1920s. The bar owner has carefully crafted the atmosphere of a speakeasy with low ambient lighting, vintage decor, and wooden furniture. The exciting part is that the bar has its own 'hidden' entrance through a commonplace to keep the mystery alive. On many nights the candle lights on each table are accompanied by lovely live jazz music. The bar also hosts themed parties and burlesque shows, with live music every Friday and Saturday, and offers excellent bar snacks.Must try
This Instagrammable bar in the heart of Manchester is even more praised for its long list of exciting cocktails with various unique names and flavors. Try My Dearest Zelda, a drink named after Fitzgerald's wife, or enjoy the South Side Fizz with Tanqueray, lime, and mint. Gin lovers can try the Fitzgerald Bramble with gin, blueberry, and lemon. The bar snacks menu features classic dishes with a modern twist, such as truffle popcorn, duck croquettes, and charcuterie boards.Address: 11, Stevenson Square, M1 1DB
Timings: Thursday - 5:00 PM to Midnight
Friday & Saturday - 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Sunday & Wednesday - Available for Private Hire
Contact - 0161 228 6629
Approximate cost for two: GBP 60 - GBP - 80
7. The Botanist - Manchester
The Botanist - Manchester is located on Deansgate, one of the most famous streets in the city. Once you enter this beautifully decorated botanical bar, you will surely fall in love with the beauty of Manchester. The décor of The Botanist is one of the most striking features of the bar. It is designed to look like a Victorian-era greenhouse, with plants and foliage adorning the walls and ceilings. Like the exciting decor, the menu's aunty drinks list keeps changing according to seasons, just like the flowers and the plants. An outside terrace area is adorned with flora, which is entirely pet friendly.Must Try
There's hardly anything that you might not want to taste in the Botanist, starting from the botanical cocktails to the Botanical a la carte. You can try the Jasmine & Passion Fruit with Cazcabel Tequila, Peach & Honey Blossom with Maker's Mark Whiskey, or the BOtanist Pornstar in cocktails with Vodka and Prosecco. Even there are drinks from the roots and shoots of the plants like Rhubarb & Sage Spiritz with Portobello Road Gin or the Vanilla & Macadamia with Marker's Mark Whiskey.Address: 78 Deansgate, Manchester M3 2FW
Timings: Monday to Thursday- 12:00 - 12:00 AM
Friday 12:00 - 01:00 AM
Saturday & Sunday - 12:00 - 01:00 AM
Contact: 0161 833 1878
Approximate cost for two: GBP 60 - GBP - 80
8. The Molly House
The Molly House is a popular bar located in the heart of Manchester's Gay Village. The rustic vintage old bar has more than what you can imagine. Once you enter the bar, you will be confronted with more than 400 ales, spirits, beer, and wine choices. The brickwork on the wall will transport you to an ancient time, and the tasty tapas food will allure your taste buds till the end. If you are open to trying some rare concoction in the heart of Manchester, then Molly House is probably the best choice.Must Try
You can try the Beautiful Things 4.2% Pale in beer, the soft juicy, and creamy session NEIPA served with the expected haze. If you love wine, try the Highway to Hell or Somewhere Else with soft tannins. You can enjoy the Pan Tumaca VE, Patatas Bravas VE or some tasty Olives and Capers as a side dish.Address: 26 Richmond Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 3NB
Timings:Sun to Thu: 1pm-11pm
Fri to Sat:1pm-1:30am
Contact: 0161 237 9329
Approximate cost for two: GBP 60 - GBP - 80
9. The Wash House
The Wash House is not your typical bar. It's not even advertised as a bar. Instead, it masquerades as a laundromat, with washing machines and dryers lining the walls and a sign reading "Wash and Dry Service." But inside lies the secret entrance to the bar, where you need to enter, push a button and find the hidden door to the bar. Once inside, you will be readily transported to a world of low-hanging lamps with candles and eclectic decor. The building that houses the bar was once home to a real laundromat, which operated for several decades before closing in the 1980s. In 2011, the building was transformed into The Wash House bar, preserving its original features and paying homage to its past. The rugged style with exposed brick and dark leather seats transports us to a supposedly new world of mystery.Must Try
Despite its unique concept and exceptional service, The Wash House is surprisingly affordable. You can start with specialty cocktails like the Orange Blossom, New Fashion, Platinum Margarita, Manhattan, and the French 75. Apart from that, the local beer range is highly appreciable, which includes Causeway IPA, Blue Pants Pale Ale, Westbrook White Thai, and more.Address: 19 Shudehill, Manchester M4 2AF, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Wednesday - 4:00 PM –1:00 AM
Thursday: 4:00 PM –3:00 AM
Friday: 12:00 PM –3:00 AM
Saturday: 12:00 PM –3:00 AM
Sunday: 12:00 PM –11:00 PM
Approximate cost for two: GBP 40 - GBP - 50
10. All Bar One Manchester
All Bar One Manchester is part of a chain of bars across the UK, with over 50 locations. The bar is located in the city's heart on King Street, a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and unending nightlife. The bar's drinks menu is not just excellent but unique in the entire neighborhood, with a fusion of local and seasonal ingredients in most preparations. Apart from great food and drinks, there is also an All Bar One Wine Library catering to the minds of all the wine lovers who want to dive deep into the world of wine and winery.Must Try
A simple dinner with a glass of wine and an accompanying Tapas dish can be your go-to meal anytime. Otherwise, there is Palmer & Co Rose reserve in champagne, Veuve Clicquot Yellow label Nv, and more. You can also find classic cocktails like Pina Colada, Cosmopolitan, Daiquiri, French Martini, and Blackcurrant Collins here.Address: 73-79 King Street, Manchester, M2 4NG
Timings : Mon - Wed 10:00 AM- 11:00 PM
Thu 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Fri & Sat - 10:00 AM - 1:00 AM
Sun 10:00 AM - 10.:00 PM
Contact - 0871 978 8041
Approximate cost for two: GBP 40 - GBP - 60
11. The Bay Horse Tavern
The Bay Horse Tavern has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s when it was first established as a pub for workers in the Northern Quarter. The concept behind The Bay Horse Tavern was reopened in 2017 and was created as a space where people can come together to relax, socialize, and taste great food. The bar's laid-back ambiance, stylish decor, warm lighting, and cozy seating make it more comfortable. There's always something going on here, from live music and DJ nights to pub quizzes and themed parties.Must try
You can find their long list of Long Drinks. Portobello Road No 171 Gin with Natural Indian Tonic, Finlandia Mango with Elderflower Tonic, Al Fresco Spritz with El Bandarra Al Fresco, and more. Some best-selling traditional gins include Bay Horse Small Batch, Bulldog, Kuro, King of Soho, Star of Bombay, and Bombay Sapphire.Address: 35 - 37 Thomas St, Manchester, M4 1NA
Timings: Monday – Friday - 12:00 PM – Midnight
Saturday & Sunday - 11:00 AM – Midnight
Contact: 0161 669 5799
Approximate cost for two: GBP 60 - GBP - 80
12. Cloud 23
Situated on the 23rd floor of the iconic Beetham Tower, Cloud 23 boasts unparalleled views of the city skyline, an extensive drinks menu, and an unforgettable atmosphere. Undeniably, the location of this bar is the most distinctive aspect, where you can enjoy signature cocktails while watching the River Irwell. From organizing selected DJ nights to Afternoon Tea, the experience here is unparalleled. The carefully curated cocktails menu keeps changing and has unique citrus and aromatic notes to add to the uniqueness of each drink. Cloud 23 has a smart dress code, with no sportswear or trainers allowed.Must try
You can try Ambrosia with berries, Champagne, and Bergamot foam. The taste is particularly Aromatic, Tangy, and Zesty. There is also the Aegis with Bulleit Bourbon, Mozart Dark, and Chocolate Bitter, giving a touch of coffee at every sip. Non-alcoholic drinks are also available.Address: Cloud 23, Hilton Deansgate, Beetham Tower,303 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4LQ
Timings - Monday & Tuesday: 12 pm – 10 pm
Wednesday & Thursday: 12 pm – 12 am
Friday & Saturday: 12 pm – 1 am
Sunday: 12 pm – 10 pm
Contact: 0161 870 1688
Approximate cost for two: GBP 80 - GBP 90
13. Dusk til Pawn
Dusk Til Pawn is a unique and stylish bar with the theme of a pawn shop in the heart of Manchester, UK. The bar was established in 2012 and is the entertainment warehouse in Manchester. The bar has gained a reputation for its impressive drinks menu, tasty food offerings, and vibrant atmosphere merged with the vintage look. Once you enter the bar, you can notice the space covered with vintage guitars, televisions, and old furniture. There is also live music and live jazz on most of the weekends.
Must Try
The specialty of Dusk Til Pawn is the subtle and unique twist in each of the classic cocktails. You can try the City Lights with Whiskey and Pineapple, the Iron Man with Gin and Cherry, and the Red Berry Spritz with Aperol and Strawberry. There is also a vast wine, beer, and soft drink collection.Address: Stevenson Square, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M1 1FB
Timings: Tuesday & Wednesday: 4pm - 12am
Thursday: 4pm - 1am
Friday & Saturday: 3pm - 3am
Sunday: 5pm - 12am
Contact : 0161 226 5355
Approximate cost for two: GBP 50 - GBP - 60
14. 7Sins, Northern Quarter
Manchester's Northern Quarter is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, and 7Sins is one of the top bars you don't want to miss. The bar is a tribute to the seven deadly sins; every detail, from the decor to the cocktail menu, reflects this theme. The bar concept is uniquely decorated with varied graffiti motifs and neon lights, setting the tone for the entire experience. One of the most fun things at this bar is the games corner. From shuffleboard tables to pool tables, there is everything you need to enjoy the best cocktails of Manchester here. To add up to the fun, there is also live music playing in the backdrop.Must Try
There is everything you would want to have in cocktails, starting from Bumblebee to Disco Iced Tea. You can try the unique Mango Coco Swizz with a fusion of the Bacardi White, Mango, Coconut, and Mint, or the Zoltars Revenge with Melon Liqueur, Pineapple, and Coconut Rum. You can try fresh bar snacks like Burgers, fries, pizza, and more for accompaniment.Address: 7 Sins, 43-45, Lever Street, M1 1FN
Timings: Monday to Friday - 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Saturday & Sunday - 12:00 pm to 2:00 AM
Approximate cost for two: GBP 40 - GBP - 50
15. The Pen and Pencil
The Pen and Pencil Bar opened its doors in 2015 to bring a touch of New York's vibrant bar scene to Manchester. Located on Hilton Street, in the heart of Manchester's Northern Quarter, this bar has inspired this name from the mind 20th-century bar on East 45th Street in New York. The comfortable seating area, with a mix of booths, tables, bar stools, and modern decors, makes the bar look more appealing to visitors. An in-house DJ also takes care of the party vibe in the Pen and Pencil. To add to the fun, there is also a Happy Hour time where you can have two cocktails for just GBP 12, a bottle of House Wine at GBP 14, and a Bottle of selected Beer at GBP 4.Must Try
Start your journey with the classic cocktails section. There is the Old Fashioned with Bulleit Bourbon, Demerara, and Orange, P&P Strawberry Daiquiri with El Dorado 3 yrs rum, and the Hemingway Daiquiri. The show stopper is the uniquely crafted Gold Rush, a perfect twist on a whiskey sour. There is also a wide range of wines, ranging from white, rose, and red. Try the House pours like the Ketel One Vodka, Bulleit Bourbon, or Tanqueray Gin.Address: 57 Hilton Street, Manchester, M1 2EJ
Timings:Sunday - Wednesday: 10:00 - 00:00
Thu: 10:00 - 01:00
Fri - Sat: 10:00 - 02:00
Contact: 0161 660 3303
Approximate cost for two: GBP 50 - GBP 60
16. The Temple Bar
The Temple bar in Manchester is becoming even more famous as one of the best dive bars for travelers who want to enjoy a quick drink and get going. This bar once used to be a public toilet which is now renovated with a brand new look. Also nicknamed the Temple of Convenience, this small quint bar is decorated with posters and antiques. The graffiti on the walls will transport you to a different world. If you are lucky, you can also spot famous local bands and singers resting in some corner and enjoying a drink at the Temple Bar. Needless to say. The jukebox of Temple Bar stands out from the rest of the dive-in bars in Manchester.Must Try
You can try the bottled craft beer or the beer on the tap. The range of draught beer comprises from all over the world as well. Try Havana, Pernod, Jack Daniels Honey, or some white wine at the Temple Bar.Address: 100 Great Bridgewater St, Manchester, M1 5 JW
Timings - 03:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Contact: +44 161 278 1610
Approximate cost for two: GBP 30 - GBP 50
17. Hawksmoor Manchester
If you love elegant decor and are a cocktail enthusiast, Hawksmoor Manchester is a paradise waiting for you. Hawksmoor Manchester Bar is well-known for its impressive cocktail list, including classic and contemporary cocktails. The bar's mixologists are experts in their craft, constantly experimenting with new flavor combinations. A private dining room inside the bar can accommodate up to 14 people for intimate gatherings. Apart from the bar menu, the snacks are equally alluring.Must try
The bar menu is selective and engaging. You can start with something strawberry like the Strawberry & Matcha Sour with Ford's gin and vermouth. There is also the Bone dry Gibson with Ford's gin, Cocchi Americano, caramelized onion, and bone marrow pickle. You can state the Short rib nuggets or fried chicken for some accompaniment.Address: 184, 186 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3WB, United Kingdom
Timings: 12:00 PM –3:00 PM;5:00 PM –9:30 PM
Contact: +44 161 836 6980
Approximate cost for two: GBP 50 - GBP 60
18. 20 Stories
Located on the 19th floor of No. 1 Spinningfields, the 20 stories bar is iconic by providing the best 360-degree view of Manchester while you enjoy your sip of unique cocktails. Apart from the rooftop terrace view, the menu of 20 stories is equally delicious and enjoyable, made up of all locally sourced ingredients amalgamated in the best Northwest dishes. The bar is headed by Jack Marsden, who will look after your preferences and curate the perfect signature cocktail you want. The outdoor lounge bar is lined up with tall trees and warm lights. Apart from the bath, there are Al Fresco fire pieces on the rooftop, making the ambiance even better for any occasion. There are ample options for craft beer and wine as well. Weekend DJ nights are a must to experience here. Do not forget to maintain their intelligent dress code and avoid fancy dress for a quick dinner at the 20 Stories.Must try
20 Stories tell all the stories through its unique cocktails, especially the Manchester start cocktail, most famous among locals and foreigners. The other popular must-try items include Gin & Tonic Tini and a vast collection of white wine. You can try the Vermentino, Bombo leggero, and Chablis.Address: No 1 Spinningfields, 1 Hardman Square, Manchester, M3 3EB
Timings: BAR: Mon - Thur: 12:00 PM – 00:00
Fri - Sun: 12:00 PM – Late
Contact: 0161 204 3333
Approximate Cost for Two: GBP 50 - GBP 60
19. The Oast House
The Oast House Bar is a must-visit spot for anyone seeking a unique drinking experience. Located in the historic area of Spinningfields, the bar is housed in a historical building of the 19th century which was later converted into a bar in 2011. This Kentish-style pub has a warm and welcoming ambiance with a wooden interior and a brickwork facade. The bar organizes live music every night and serves Manchester's best quality food and drinks. There is also a unique outdoor seating area for those who want to drink under a starry night. If you plan to visit the Oast during some festival, book your table before having a seat.Must Try
The bar has a wide selection of craft beers, including many from local breweries such as Cloudwater and Marble Brewery. They also have an impressive selection of cocktails, with classics such as the Old Fashioned and Negroni, as well as their unique creations, such as the Spiced Apple Pie and the Manchester Tart. For accompaniments, you can try their deli counter serving fresh and delicious meat and cheese platters.Address: The Oast House, The Avenue Courtyard, M3 3AY
Timings: Saturday to Thursday - 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Friday - 12:00 PM to 2:00 AMContact +44 161 829 3830
Approximate cost for two: GBP 50 - GBP 60
20. Speak In Code
Located between Jackson Row and Lloyd Street, the Speak in Code bar was founded in 2018, offering unique cocktail choices and food recipes. Nathan Larkin initially established it with the pop-up concept in a shared space. The unique specialty of the bar is that it is entirely plant-based and puts maximum effort into creating a closed-loop drink. The brick walls, warm and subdued lighting, and the bar's wooden furnishing make the ambiance even better. Apart from the vast collection of cocktails available at the counter, the bar also sells different kinds of cocktail gift sets in different seasons.Must Try
From syrups to liqueurs, the unique tastes hidden in every sip of the cocktails are genuinely mesmerizing. You can try the Track 3 cocktail infused with Chamomile and Capucana Cachaca; Savoury spiced Lacto fermented honey, and Amaro Nonino. The coconut yogurt rinsed Rum with dark chocolate coin and Tio Pepe fino sherry is also a must-try. The must-have accompaniments with your drinks are the Cauliflower wings, Mock Duck Steamed Buns, and Rosemary & Lemon Zest Focaccia.Address: 7 Jackson's Row, Manchester M2 5ND
Timings: Fri - Sat: 5:00 PM - 2:00 AM
Sun - Thurs: 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Contact: +44 7887 947 850
Approximate cost for two: GBP 50 - GBP - 60
Whether you're looking for a trendy cocktail bar, a traditional pub, or something in between, this city has no shortage of options. So jump in and choose your favorite drinks from these bars in Manchester now!