The first thing you’ll hear when talking about Manchester is its contribution to pop culture, rock and electronica, and football, which add color to the city’s nightlife.
Manchester is home to many Rock and New wave artists like the Stone Roses, the Smiths, New Order, Joy Division, Oasis, And several electronica artists like the Chemical Brothers. The city is also home to many music venues and festivals and is an important hub for the music industry.
In addition to its music scene, the city is renowned for its passion for football, with two of the country’s biggest clubs, Manchester United and Manchester City, based in the town.
Fans flock to the city to experience the electric atmosphere of a matchday, and there are plenty of pubs and bars in the city center dedicated to football that provides a lively atmosphere for fans to enjoy.
Where To Party In Manchester?
There are many popular areas for nightlife in Manchester and primarily concentrated in the city center, including the Northern Quarter, Deansgate, and Oxford Road, which has its unique atmosphere and is known for different types of bars and clubs, ranging from traditional pubs and beer gardens to quirky bars and music venues.
Students and many young people go to the Northern Quarter and Oxford Road for its trendy bars, boutique shops, street art, and music venues at affordable prices.
Many of these venues are near the major universities on Oxford Road, and Northern Quarter is a few blocks to the north.
For some upscale nightlife, Deansgate and Spinningfields are the places to go. Deansgate is popular among the city’s more affluent residents, while Spinningfields attracts the city’s business crowd.
Manchester Nightlife & Safety Tips
Manchester is generally considered a safe city for anyone to enjoy its nightlife. The city has a strong police presence that works together with a citywide surveillance system; however, as with any large city, it is essential to consider safety, especially for tourists that may find the place too foreign.
When getting around at night, Avoid walking alone in dark alleys and be attentive to the surroundings. Know the primary routes and ways to get around during the wee hours, and make sure that help is reachable wherever you go.
Drinking alcohol publicly on the streets is prohibited and can get you fined. Partying all night is okay as long as you can hold out, but causing a ruckus might also get you a fine.
Minors aren’t allowed to be served alcohol, and some venues may hold your liquor unless you are over 21. Drink spiking isn’t typical, but it’s better to always be on guard, especially for women.
How Expensive Is It To Party In Manchester?
Manchester’s nightlife is known for being affordable, making it accessible to anyone. This is made possible because of the city’s music and sports cultures, where you can enjoy drinking and live music or a football broadcast. Still, the cost of experience is relative wherever you go, depending on how you spend.
Generally speaking, entry fees for nightclubs and bars can range from free to around £10 ($13) per person, with drinks prices varying depending on the venue. Most bars and pubs in Manchester have reasonably priced drinks, with a pint of beer costing between £3 ($4) and £5 ($6) on average.
If you’re looking for a more premium experience, such as VIP tables or bottle service in a nightclub, you can expect to pay much more, often hundreds of pounds per night.
It’s possible to find affordable options in Manchester, but you may need to do some research and look for deals or discounts to get the most value for your money. Some bars and pubs offer happy hour deals, and some nightclubs may have cheaper entry fees or drink offers on certain weeknights.
Manchester Nightlife Venues
Manchester Nightlife on a Monday
The best bar in Manchester on a Monday – 7 Sins
If you’re looking for a game, this neon-lit underground hideaway has it. 7 Sins is an underground realm teeming with entertainment, from shuffleboard and billiards to arcade classics, while enjoying yourself on inventive drinks and Instagram-able shakes.
The best club on a Monday – Matt and Phred’s
Matt and Phred’s, a Tib Street jazz club with live performers six nights a week, is the place to go if you’re looking for music with a party ambiance. Check out their upcoming shows, which include burlesque revues, blues jams, and salsa bands.
Manchester Nightlife on a Tuesday
The best bars in Manchester on Tuesday – Jimmy’s
Jimmy’s is a popular live music venue, with rock ‘n’ roll streaming through its blood. Band posters adorn the walls, along with knick-knacks acquired by traveling performers and a long list of bands set to perform. What about the assistance? Excellent beer and comfort meal.
The best clubs on a Tuesday – Cirque
Cirque, an elite Manchester club that spotlights risqué acts, is not for the faint of heart. Expect a circus atmosphere where everything goes, from great concerts and star DJs to funfair décor and ball pit shenanigans.
Wednesday Party
The best bar in Manchester on Wednesday – Washhouse
The Washhouse is a hidden bar in the north end of Manchester’s city center. It hides under a facade of a laundromat, and inside is a quirky and eccentric bar that is only for reservation.
The best club in Manchester on Wednesday– FAC251
FAC251 – The Factory is a nightclub offering something for everyone. Expect indie Thursdays, cheesy’rewind’ Tuesdays, and three levels of music on the weekends.
Thursday Manchester Nightlife
The best bar in Manchester on Thursday – Dusk Til Pawn
This unusual watering place is hidden behind the guise of an old pawn store window and has cozy sofas, a booming jukebox, and top-notch drinks. Come by for concoctions and incredible sounds in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
The best club on a Thursday – Satan’s Hollow
If alternative club nights are more your thing, Satans Hollow is one of the city’s lone havens for punk, rock, and metal fans and the best place for affordable spirits and mixers.
Friday & Saturday Manchester Nightlife
Best bar on Friday & Saturday – Behind Closed Doors
Behind Closed Doors is a quirky and trendy hidden speakeasy bar in the Northern Quarter district that offers potent custom drinks.
Best club on the weekend in Manchester – Soup Kitchen
Hidden in the basement of this famous watering hole are an intimate gig venue and dancefloor—a place for underground DJs and cool alternative tunes.
Sunday Nightlife
Best bar on Sunday – Bunny Jackson’s Juke Joint
Bunny Jackson’s is a bustling live music bar billed as Manchester’s greatest ‘juke joint,’ playing hit songs and serving American cuisine.
Best club on Sunday – Mint Lounge
Mint Lounge is one of Manchester’s most well-known nightclubs, as it is home to the city’s longest-running night out. Funkademia draws a fun-seeking audience on Saturday nights to dance to pure soul funk.
Best Bars in Manchester
The Alchemist Spinningfields
The Alchemist’s Spinningfields branch perfectly encapsulates the brand’s dedication to creating a spellbinding cocktail experience. The bar’s sleek, modern decor provides the perfect setting for savoring their science-infused concoctions. Their inventive cocktail menu is inspired by the mystical elements of alchemy, with each drink presented in an unusual and theatrical way. You might find your cocktail bubbling over with smoke, glowing with an otherworldly sheen, or even changing color before your eyes. If you’re peckish, they also offer a delicious food menu with a variety of global dishes.
Cloud 23
For those seeking a touch of sophistication, Cloud 23 is a sky-high bar situated on the 23rd floor of the Beetham Tower. Offering panoramic views of the city, this venue is ideal for a special occasion or an elegant evening out. Enjoy their innovative cocktails while soaking in the breathtaking views of the Manchester skyline.
Port Street Beer House
Located in the Northern Quarter, Port Street Beer House is a paradise for craft beer enthusiasts. Offering an impressive selection of local and international brews, this bar provides a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re an experienced beer connoisseur or new to the craft beer scene, the knowledgeable staff is ready to guide you through their extensive menu.
The Whiskey Jar
Situated in the heart of the Northern Quarter, The Whiskey Jar is a must-visit for whiskey lovers. With an extensive range of over 350 types of whiskey from around the world, this rustic bar offers a cozy, relaxed vibe. It also hosts regular live music events, adding to the warm atmosphere.
The Liars Club
Taking its inspiration from a tropical hideaway, The Liars Club offers a unique atmosphere with its island-inspired decor and Polynesian-themed cocktails. This tiki bar, with its exciting menu of rum-based cocktails, is a slice of tropical paradise right in Manchester’s city center.
Best Nightclubs in Manchester
The Warehouse Project
Regarded as an institution in Manchester’s nightlife, The Warehouse Project is a seasonal club that hosts an array of international DJs and live acts. With its massive, warehouse-style setting and top-quality sound system, this venue offers a unique clubbing experience that draws party-goers from across the UK and beyond.
Bliss Club Manchester
For party-goers who love a posh and stylish venue, Bliss Club Manchester is a must-visit. This upscale nightclub boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a stylish interior design, a high-quality sound system, and a wide variety of beverages. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and visitors looking to dance the night away.
Albert Hall
Set in a restored Wesleyan chapel, Albert Hall is a truly unique venue. This stunning location features a grand organ, stained glass windows, and an enormous chandelier, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for its variety of club nights and live music events.
FAC251 – The Factory
Owned by New Order’s Peter Hook, FAC251 – The Factory is housed in the former headquarters of Factory Records. This nightclub has three floors, each offering a different music genre, from indie rock and pop to house and techno. Its deep-rooted connection to Manchester’s music history adds an extra layer of allure.
The Deaf Institute
Located in a historic building, The Deaf Institute is a favorite among locals in Manchester. This vibrant nightclub offers three levels, each with its unique vibe, hosting a variety of club nights and live music events. The bar is known for its eclectic mix of music, and its Victorian decor a
Manchester Nightlife Summary
The Manchester nightlife scene is dynamic, diverse, and full of character. With a range of offerings from sophisticated rooftop bars to energetic nightclubs, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a beer connoisseur, or a cocktail aficionado, you’re sure to find your perfect spot for a night out in Manchester.
Manchester’s nightlife captures the spirit of this vibrant city: the love for music, the commitment to creativity, and the sense of community. Whether you’re a local Mancunian or a first-time visitor, the city’s nightlife guarantees unforgettable memories. So gear up for a night of excitement and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere that the city of Manchester so proudly offers.
