Whether you’re coming to Manchester for the weekend to visit or if you’re a local looking to find somewhere new to impress your pals, we have put together the ultimate list of cool bars in Manchester. We wanted to provide you with a vibrant mix of bars to suit all. Alternatively head over to our blogs on cocktail bars in Manchester and the best bars in Manchester for more inspiration.
Terrace NQ
If you’re after somewhere with immaculate vibes, a great atmosphere and a quality range of drinks, Terrace NQ is the place for you. Located in the heart of the Northern Quarter, Terrace is in the centre of all of the activity. The perfect spot for afterwork drinks, and when the sun is out the terrace is a hidden sun trap which we think is one of the best outdoor bars Manchester has to offer. Choose from a large selection of beers, ales and cocktails and find yourself a cosy seat at this walk in only bar.
Alcotraz
One of Manchester’s latest additions to the city is the Alcotraz prison bar, a secret home to a speakeasy prison. It would be wrong not to include this in our list of cool bars Manchester. You smuggle in your alcohol behind bars and get it in the hands of the ‘longer serving inmates’ who will create delicious cocktails for you and your pals. Each cocktail is completely unique and based on the drinks you smuggle inside. You won’t find a set menu at Alcotraz, after all it is prison. We suggest booking a slot in advance, you can choose from prison commissary seating or a prison cell to yourself, tickets start from £29.99.
YES
YES is one of our favourite cool bars in Manchester with its different floors each giving off a different vibe. On the ground floor you can find the main bar overlooked by an open kitchen. The next floor up is called the pink room, and the name suggests it is an entirely pink room that holds some fantastic and unique events. On the top floor you can find the romantic shabby chic style roof terrace. The owners wanted to create a space that had a different experience on each floor. The building is bursting with character too. Built in 1912, the three story building was once a printing press but had been empty until 2015 when the project for YES began.
The Wash House
Next on our list of cool bars in Manchester and potentially the most unique isTthe Wash House. We haven’t seen anything like this before, a real hidden gem that not many people know about. Disguised as a laundrette, this bar is a must visit, especially if you’re wanting to impress your mates or other half.
When you enter through the washing machine style door you will be greeted by a speakeasy style bar. Here you can find a range of cocktails from your classics to unique tiki style drinks. Expect Ibiza style deep house music played by the DJ in the corner. If you’re looking to find this bar we can’t give too much away, but it’s located close to the Arndale in the Northern Quarter, just remember to look out for a laundrette.
Bunny Jacksons
Home to the 20p chicken wing, at Bunny Jacksons you can expect deliciously cold beers, tasty cocktails and a lot of whiskey. This American themed bar is a must visit playing American sports, having live music and guaranteed good times. If you’re looking to impress your mates, take on the hot wings challenge and expect to cry with the burn, but either way you’ll bag yourself a free t-shirt. For more information on Comedy clubs click here.
To find out more about other cool bars in Manchester check out our previous posts like cheap cocktails Manchester or best outdoor bars Manchester.
