Top Bars in Manchester – Most Viewed (2025)

Nestled in the iconic Art‑Deco Sunlight House—a 1930s architectural gem—Schofield’s Bar is the long‑awaited debut of bartender brothers Joe and Daniel Schofield, combining over 25 years of global bartending expertise to create a refined homecoming in Manchester. Opening in March 2021 after years of dreaming and planning, the bar feels like stepping into a golden era—think Harry’s New York Bar in Paris or the Savoy’s American Bar—yet with a distinctly Northern charisma. The interior is both plush and unpretentious: navy walls, rich dark woods, a sweeping wooden bar, bespoke furniture, and exactly the right playlist to strike that sophisticated‑but‑friendly note. The drinks menu focuses on 12 unwavering classics—Martini, Manhattan, Negroni, Sazerac, Clover Club, Penicillin, and more—each refined to perfection, plus inventive in‑house creations, fine wines, Champagne, draft beer, and even non‑alcoholic choices. Cocktails hover around £9.50‑£12 on average (≈ $13). Complementing the drinks, guests enjoy locally‑sourced cheese and charcuterie boards, small bites, pastries and coffee during the day, plus a “library” of books paired with cocktails for a uniquely immersive touch. The venue seats around 70 guests inside and offers a terrace that accommodates up to 60 more for elegant al fresco sipping. It’s mostly a walk‑in spot (groups up to six), with limited reservations, and enforces a tasteful dress code—no fancy‑dress or football shirts. Schofield’s has swiftly earned top accolades: #1 in the UK’s Top 50 Cocktail Bars of 2024, “Bar of the Year” in 2022–23, and Best Bar in the North multiple times. Despite its luxurious surroundings, the vibe remains warm, accessible, and never stuffy—a place where both craft and comfort go hand in hand.

Alcotraz Manchester: Cell Block Three-Four is an immersive, prison-themed cocktail bar located in the heart of Manchester. Disguised as a high-security penitentiary, this unique venue offers guests an unforgettable theatrical experience. Upon arrival, "inmates" are processed, fitted with orange jumpsuits, and guided to their cells. The challenge? Successfully smuggle in your own sealed bottle of liquor past the watchful eyes of the Warden. Once inside, the real fun begins. Crooked guards and long-serving inmate mixologists collaborate to craft four personalized cocktails using your contraband. There's no set menu; instead, each drink is tailored to your tastes, ensuring a unique experience every time. The 1 hour 45-minute "sentence" is filled with interactive storytelling, character interactions, and plenty of laughter. Alcotraz Manchester is perfect for various occasions, including hen parties, birthdays, corporate events, or simply a memorable night out. The venue can accommodate up to 80 guests for private hires, offering options like pizza catering and extended hire durations. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the storyline or sit back and enjoy the ambiance, Alcotraz promises a night like no other.

NQ64 Manchester, located in the heart of the Northern Quarter, is a unique fusion of a bar and an arcade, offering a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of gaming. This neon-splattered venue is adorned with graffiti art and is home to over 40 classic arcade machines, 2 pinball machines, and 7 retro consoles, including favorites like Mortal Kombat, Pac-Man, Street Fighter II, Tekken, Guitar Hero, Sega Mega Drive, Super Nintendo, N64, and the original PlayStation . The arcade machines operate on a token system, with tokens available for purchase at the bar. Consoles are free to play, encouraging patrons to enjoy a drink while gaming . NQ64's bar offers a range of game-themed cocktails, such as the "Mad Max" and "Bubble Bobble," alongside a selection of beers, wines, spirits, and sodas . The venue also features an outdoor terrace space, perfect for socializing and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere . Open late seven days a week, NQ64 is an ideal spot for date nights, group outings, or solo adventures. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just looking for a fun night out, NQ64 Manchester offers an unforgettable experience.

The Washhouse in Manchester is a clandestine cocktail bar cleverly disguised as a laundrette. From the outside, it presents as a typical laundry facility, complete with washing machines and detergent boxes. However, those in the know can book a "machine" and, upon arrival, pick up the vintage phone to gain entry through a hidden door concealed behind a washing machine or vending machine. Inside, patrons are transported into a dimly lit, leather-clad speakeasy that offers a unique and immersive drinking experience. The cocktail menu is renowned for its creativity and theatrical presentation. Drinks like the "Soft-Brexfast," served with a bowl of Coco Pops and vanilla foam, and the "Winner Winner," featuring chicken-infused whiskey accompanied by fries and chicken skin crackling, exemplify the bar's inventive approach . Other cocktails may come with interactive elements, such as mugshots or unexpected accompaniments, enhancing the overall experience. The Washhouse has expanded over time, now encompassing multiple floors with hidden features like a secret slide, a private bar accessible through a wardrobe, and even a DJ booth in the restroom . The atmosphere is lively, with a house music playlist and a focus on providing a memorable night out. Reservations are essential, as entry is strictly by booking only. Guests are encouraged to embrace the secrecy and play along with the laundrette façade. The Washhouse is ideal for special occasions, offering a blend of mystery, creativity, and top-tier mixology that sets it apart from conventional bars.

Tucked away behind the rustic wood and skate‑crate panelling of Cane & Grain (49–51 Thomas St), Science & Industry is Manchester’s best‑kept cocktail secret. You’ll find it beyond a hidden door, ascending a staircase to an intimate, opulent lounge filled with leather booths, warm pendant lighting, and elegant bee‑themed wallpaper. This bar doubles as a drinks laboratory, where award‑winning mixologists like Massimo Zitti craft cutting‑edge cocktails using techniques inspired by chemistry—think distillation, crystallisation, and even “edible perfumes” sprayed onto glass rims. The drinks menu is cleverly grouped into Past (classic favourites), Present (timeless cocktails), and Future (experimental creations like fairy‑tale‑inspired infusions). Beyond the inventive libations, the bar hosts cocktail masterclasses (e.g., “The Perfect Serve” for around £35pp) and live blues on Sundays, all framed by decorative touches like antique glassware and quirky taxidermy squirrels. Behind its speakeasy style and science‑themed aesthetic lies a space that’s equal parts mysterious, sophisticated, and warmly welcoming—a perfect spot for aficionados and curious newcomers alike.

Nestled beneath the atmospheric brick arches of Manchester Central, The Spirit of Manchester Distillery is a one-of-a-kind locale where bold, independent spirits meet elegant hospitality. Here, the distillery and cocktail bar coexist under one roof—visitors can watch gin, vodka, rum, and (soon) whisky being produced on-site, and then enjoy those very spirits in thoughtfully crafted cocktails. The cocktail bar—formerly known as Three Little Words—invites you to savor inventive drinks that spotlight house-distilled spirits. From a date night Negroni to signature creations inspired by music themes (like “Spirited Riffs”) featuring bold riffs on familiar classics, the menu is as imaginative as it is delicious. Beyond cocktails, the venue offers food pairings with local produce—think artisan cheeses, fresh sourdough, and focaccia—designed to elevate the drinking experience. Plus, guests can take part in unique distillery experiences: guided tours, gin tastings, gin-making sessions, and even gin-making for two, complete with a bottle to take home. With its elegant yet industrial character, live bar vibes, and immersive spirit-focused offerings, The Spirit of Manchester is perfect for connoisseurs, curious newcomers, and anyone eager for a memorable night out.

Tucked down Jackson’s Row just off Deansgate, Speak in Code (SiC) is a cocktail bar that invents more than just drinks. It feels like stepping into a tasteful underground hideaway where technique meets warmth. Brick walls, dim lighting, plush seating, artful touches — everything is designed to slow you down. What sets SiC apart is the craftsmanship. Many of their cocktails are built in-house: they do fermentations, carbonations, their own syrups, distill when possible, and infuse botanical elements. Their food follows that rhythm too: small plates, fully plant-based, creative uses of ingredients (jackfruit “mock duck,” cauliflower wings, unique snacks). They marry high technique with accessibility — cocktails and bites that delight without making you feel like you need a science degree. They also care about atmosphere: Hip-hop-leaning playlists that set a groove without overwhelming; friendly, knowledgeable staff; attention to lighting, scent, and ambiance to make each visit feel intentional. It’s an award-winning bar, respected in Manchester’s cocktail scene for doing things differently but with heart. Whether you’re with friends, on a date, or just wanting to explore flavour and vibe, SiC has a lot to offer without pretence.