Manchester, a vibrant city in the heart of North West England, is renowned for its rich industrial heritage, cultural dynamism, and, of course, its bustling nightlife. One of the best ways to experience the city’s lively social scene is through a pub crawl. Manchester boasts an array of diverse pubs and bars, each with its unique charm and character. Here, we explore some of the most popular pub crawl routes and themes that offer a true taste of Manchester’s nightlife.
The Northern Quarter Pub Crawl
The Northern Quarter is Manchester’s bohemian district, known for its eclectic mix of independent bars, quirky pubs, and stylish eateries. A pub crawl in this area promises a night of diverse experiences.
- Trof – Start your crawl at Trof, a laid-back bar with a rustic charm. Enjoy their selection of craft beers and hearty food, setting the tone for the night ahead.
- The Castle Hotel – Next, head to The Castle Hotel, a historic pub with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Known for its excellent selection of real ales and live music, it’s a must-visit.
- The Whiskey Jar – For those who appreciate fine spirits, The Whiskey Jar offers an extensive range of whiskies from around the world. Its cosy, rustic vibe makes it perfect for a relaxed drink.
- Twenty Twenty Two – This bar combines drinks with ping pong and art. It’s a great spot for those looking to add a bit of playful competition to their night.
- The Blue Pig – End your crawl at The Blue Pig, a vibrant bar with a creative cocktail menu and a lively atmosphere, perfect for dancing the night away.
The Oxford Road Corridor
Oxford Road is a bustling thoroughfare, home to Manchester’s universities and a plethora of pubs and bars. This route is popular with students and young professionals.
- The Old Pint Pot – Begin at The Old Pint Pot, a traditional pub with a beautiful riverside location. It’s ideal for starting the night with some classic pub grub and a pint.
- Big Hands – This small bar has a big personality, with a rooftop terrace that’s perfect for summer evenings. Enjoy their eclectic mix of beers and spirits.
- Gorilla – Just down the road is Gorilla, a bar, kitchen, and live music venue under the railway arches. Known for its industrial chic decor and great cocktail selection, it’s a lively stop on your crawl.
- The Font – A favourite among students, The Font offers an impressive range of affordable cocktails. The vibrant atmosphere and quirky decor make it a fun stop.
- Joshua Brooks – Finish at Joshua Brooks, a bar and nightclub known for its energetic vibe and basement dance floor. It’s the perfect place to end the night on a high note.
The Deansgate Locks Experience
Deansgate Locks is an iconic nightlife destination in Manchester, featuring a row of trendy bars housed in converted railway arches. This area is perfect for those looking for a more upscale pub crawl experience.
- Revolution – Start at Revolution, known for its extensive vodka menu and lively atmosphere. The outdoor terrace offers a great view of the canal.
- Ark – Next, head to Ark, a chic bar with a vibrant dance floor. Enjoy their innovative cocktails and upbeat music.
- Lola Lo – For a taste of the exotic, visit Lola Lo, a tiki-themed bar with tropical cocktails and a laid-back vibe. The decor is quirky and fun, making it a memorable stop.
- The Red Door – This hidden gem is known for its stylish interior and expert mixologists. The Red Door offers a more intimate setting to enjoy sophisticated drinks.
- Rebellion – End your night at Rebellion, a venue known for its live music and DJ sets. The industrial decor and high-energy atmosphere make it a fitting finale for your pub crawl.
The Ancoats Adventure
Ancoats, once an industrial powerhouse, has transformed into one of Manchester’s trendiest neighbourhoods. Its mix of historic buildings and modern developments provides a unique backdrop for a pub crawl.
- Seven Bro7hers Beerhouse – Begin at Seven Bro7hers, a brewery bar offering a wide range of craft beers. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great starting point.
- The Jane Eyre – This neighbourhood bar offers a sophisticated yet cosy setting with a great selection of cocktails and small plates.
- The Crown and Kettle – A historic pub with stunning architecture, The Crown and Kettle is perfect for those who appreciate a traditional pub experience with a modern twist.
- Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza – While technically a pizzeria, Rudy’s also has a great selection of beers and wines. It’s an ideal stop for a delicious slice and a drink.
- Elnecot – Finish at Elnecot, a bar and kitchen known for its innovative cocktails and contemporary British cuisine. The trendy setting and vibrant atmosphere make it a great place to end your crawl.
The Themed Pub Crawls
Themed pub crawls add an extra layer of fun and engagement to the experience. Here are a few ideas:
- Literary Crawl – Manchester has a rich literary history. Start at The Portico Library, followed by stops at pubs frequented by famous local writers, such as The Peveril of the Peak and The Britons Protection.
- Music Legends – Manchester’s music scene is legendary. Visit pubs and bars with ties to famous bands, such as The Temple (once a public toilet, now a cool bar with connections to the city’s music history) and The Salutation, known for its links to the local music community.
- Football Fans – For football enthusiasts, a pub crawl featuring stops like Café Football and The National Football Museum Bar will combine the city’s passion for the sport with its vibrant pub culture.
Practical Tips for a Manchester Pub Crawl
- Plan Your Route – Decide on the pubs you want to visit and the order in which to visit them. This will help ensure you make the most of your night without wasting time.
- Stay Safe – Stick with your group, keep an eye on your drinks, and be aware of your surroundings. Manchester is generally safe, but it’s always best to stay vigilant.
- Pace Yourself – Enjoy the drinks, but be mindful of your limits. Drinking water between alcoholic beverages can help keep you hydrated and prolong your night out.
- Enjoy the Atmosphere – Each pub has its unique vibe, so take the time to soak it all in. Engage with the locals, enjoy the music, and savour the diverse offerings.
Manchester’s pub crawls offer an exhilarating way to experience the city’s nightlife, from its historic pubs and stylish bars to its vibrant music and cultural scenes. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new and exciting to discover on a Manchester pub crawl.