Welcome to the vibrant city of Manchester, where the spirit of good times flows freely through its energetic streets. And what better way to soak up the lively atmosphere than by visiting some of the best outdoor bars in town? Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply looking for a spot to unwind with friends, we’ve got you covered. From trendy rooftops with breathtaking views to cosy pubs nestled in historic squares, this list will guide you through Manchester’s top 10 outdoor bars that are sure to leave you thirsty for more. So grab your sunglasses, and let’s dive into this refreshing adventure!
Top 10 Best Outdoor Bars in Manchester
1. Rain Bar
- Website: www.rain-bar.co.uk
- Contact: 0161 235 6500
- Location: 80 Great Bridgewater Street Manchester M1 5JG
- Menu: Drinks
- Timing: Monday to Saturday: 2 pm-8.30 pm, Sunday: 12 pm-8 pm
Step into the newly refurbished Rain Bar and prepare to be amazed. This iconic establishment has undergone a stunning transformation, revealing itself in all its glory. As you enter, your eyes are immediately drawn to the central bar that takes pride of place at the heart of this pub. And what a bar it is! It boasts an impressive selection of award-winning cask ales and lagers, ensuring that beer enthusiasts will find their perfect pint.
But fear not if beer isn’t your drink of choice because the Rain Bar also offers an extensive range of wines and spirits sourced from around the world. From fine wines to expertly crafted cocktails, there’s something for every taste bud here. Even non-alcoholic options are available so that everyone can join in on the fun.
What sets the Rain Bar apart from other outdoor bars is its commitment to providing not just great drinks but also delicious food. The thoughtfully crafted menus offer an abundance of choices for hungry patrons. Indulge in classic pub favourites like fish & chips or treat yourself to their renowned Brewery Tower Burger – a true culinary masterpiece.
2. The Wharf
- Website: www.thewharf-castlefield.co.uk
- Contact: 0161 220 2960
- Location: 6 Slate Wharf, Castlefield, Manchester, M15 4ST
- Menu: Daily menu, Pudding menu, Wine list
- Timing: Thursday: 5 pm – 10 pm, Friday: 4 pm – 12 am, Saturday: 12 noon to 12 am, Sunday: 12 noon to 10 pm
The Wharf is a chain pub, but it’s not your typical run-of-the-mill establishment. Run by the Good Pub Guide’s pub group of the year, Brunning & Price, there’s some credibility behind its reputation. Plus, only a chain could have afforded to renovate such a massive property that was once home to Jackson’s Wharf.
It’s actually quite an interesting story. The building was originally supposed to be turned into apartment blocks by Peel Holdings (the company behind Trafford Centre), but local opposition put a stop to those plans. That’s when B&P stepped in and created a 350-cover establishment that fits perfectly with the area’s Urban Heritage Park status.
One of the highlights of The Wharf is its amazing beer garden. With most of the seating located outside, it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re having trouble finding a table elsewhere. Inside, you’ll find a standard upmarket pub atmosphere – light and airy with plenty of wood accents.
When it comes to drinks, The Wharf aims to please all tastes. While they do offer popular options like J2Os and Magners cider, they also feature offbeat craft beers on their six-cask pumps. You might come across Thornbridge Jaipur or offerings from Hawkshead or Roosters Breweries. They even have Shindigger’s West Coast Pale Ale for something zesty and hoppy.
If you’re more into spirits than beer, don’t worry – The Wharf has got you covered, too! With over 100 malt whiskeys on their list and a decent wine selection, including Rueda whites and enjoyable Pinot Noirs around the £20 mark.
3. 20 Stories
- Website: www.20stories.co.uk
- Contact: 0161 204 3333
- Location: No 1 Spinningfields, 1 Hardman Square, Spinningfields, Manchester, M3 3EB
- Menu: Drinks
- Timing: Monday to Saturday 2 pm – 8.30 pm, Sunday: 12 pm-8 pm
Located on the 19th floor of a shopping complex in Manchester, 20 Stories is a trendy and stylish establishment that offers more than just breathtaking views of the city. This high-rise destination not only serves contemporary British cuisine and cocktails but also hosts exciting events that celebrate all things Best of British.
One such event is their British-themed Garden Party, which pays homage to the Jubilee and showcases the best of what Britain has to offer. Guests can enjoy live music from a resident DJ while indulging in a quintessentially British Afternoon Tea. The tea includes an array of delicious sandwiches, signature cakes, and desserts like the tantalizing Pornstar Martini cheesecake.
4. The Oast House Bar & Restaurant
- Contact: 0161 829 3830
- Location: The Avenue Courtyard, Spinningfields, Crown Square, Manchester, M3 3ay
- Timing: Monday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, Tuesday 11:00 am, Wednesday 11:00 am,
Thursday to Saturday: 11:00 – 01:00 am, Sunday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
The Oast House Bar & Restaurant in Manchester is an absolute gem nestled in the heart of Manchester. With its rustic-style ambience, this pub exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff who are ready to cater to your every need.
One of the highlights of The Oast House is its diverse menu offering international cuisine. From deli boards filled with delicious meats and cheeses to mouthwatering kebabs priced at just £6.75 each, there’s something for everyone’s taste buds to enjoy. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in a hearty meal after a long day exploring the city.
For beer enthusiasts, The Oast House also offers ale and beer-tasting experiences. You can sample a wide range of brews from local breweries as well as some international favourites. It’s a great opportunity to discover new flavours and expand your beer knowledge.
5. Honest Burgers Manchester
- Website: www.honestburgers.co.uk
- Contact: +44 (0) 161 676 3890
- Location: 36 Bridge St, Manchester M3 3BT
- Menu: Drinks
- Timing: Monday to Thursday: 11:30 am – 10:00 pm, Friday and Saturday: 11:30 am – 11:00 pm Sunday: 11:30 am – 10:00 pm
Honest Burgers Manchester is not your average burger joint. With a commitment to redefining the burger experience, they take great pride in crafting burgers with a distinctive approach. Each day, their dedicated butchery meticulously prepares their burgers using premium British beef.
But it’s not just the beef that sets Honest Burgers apart. They are renowned for their rosemary chips, which are freshly cut and cooked daily. This attention to detail ensures that every bite is bursting with flavour.
What truly sets Honest Burgers Manchester apart is its passion for local flavours. They have introduced an exclusive local burger, carefully curated with ingredients sourced from The Bury Black Pudding Company and Runaway Brewery. It’s a delicious combination of flavours that showcases the best of what the region has to offer.
To complement this gastronomic journey, Honest Burgers offers exceptional local beers from breweries such as Runaway and Alphabet. These brews perfectly pair with their mouthwatering burgers, creating a complete dining experience for patrons.
6. Atlas Bar
- Website: www.atlasbarmanchester.com
- Contact: +441618342124
- Location: 376 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4LY, United Kingdom
- Menu: Drinks
- Timing: Sunday to Thursday: 10 AM–11 PM, Friday and Saturday: 10 AM-12 AM
Nestled within the historic railway arches of Deansgate, Atlas Bar has established itself as an iconic destination in Manchester for gin enthusiasts and bar connoisseurs alike. With a staggering collection of over 570 gins from around the world, it boasts the largest selection in Manchester City Centre.
Not only does Atlas Bar excel in its gin offerings, but it also holds an impressive list of accolades to prove its commitment to excellence. It has been awarded Best Spirits Bar North West and Best Bar Team North West in The Great British Pub Awards. Additionally, it was recognized with the prestigious Design My Night Best Beer Garden Award and named a finalist for Best Spirits Bar in the UK at the 2019 Star Pub Awards.
Stepping into Atlas Bar is like entering a refined haven where attention to detail is paramount. From their expertly crafted cocktails to their knowledgeable staff, every aspect reflects their dedication to providing a top-notch experience for patrons.
7. The Old Wellington
- Website: www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk
- Contact: +441618395179
- Location: The Old Wellington, 4, Cathedral Approach, M3 1SW
- Menu: Food and Whiskey
- Timing: Monday to Friday: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 am – 10:30 pm
The Old Wellington, affectionately known as The Welly, is a hidden gem tucked away in Manchester’s bustling city centre. Situated on The Shambles Square alongside other iconic establishments like Sinclair’s Oyster Bar and The Mitre, this traditional English pub offers an authentic experience that transports you back in time.
As you step into the square, you can’t help but be captivated by the charming outdoor seating area that dominates much of the space. Surrounded by towering buildings, it feels like stumbling upon one of Manchester’s best-kept secrets. But it doesn’t end there; The Old Wellington has a story to tell.
The building itself holds historical significance as one of the oldest of its kind in the city. In a remarkable feat of regeneration after the bombing in the mid-90s, both The Old Wellington and Sinclair’s Oyster Bar were painstakingly moved brick by brick up the road to their current location.
Inside, you’ll find yourself immersed in an atmosphere steeped in history. Wooden beams and tables create a warm and inviting ambience, while dedicated traditional dining rooms offer mouthwatering dishes such as venison sausages and gourmet pies.
Of course, no visit to The Old Wellington would be complete without sampling their impressive selection of well-kept real ales from local and national breweries. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or prefer indulging in wine or whisky, they have options to suit every taste.
8. El Gato Negro Tapas Manchester
- Website: www.elgatonegrotapas.com
- Contact: +44 161 694 8585
- Location: 52 King St, Manchester M2 4LY, United Kingdom
- Menu: Drinks
- Timing: Monday to Sunday 12:00–late (last sitting 22:00)
El Gato Negro Tapas Manchester is housed in a charming three-story townhouse on King Street, right in the heart of the city. With its impeccable conversion and grand opening in 2016, this tapas restaurant has quickly become a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
The ground floor of El Gato Negro showcases al fresco dining on the pavement, allowing guests to enjoy their delicious Spanish-inspired dishes while soaking up the lively atmosphere of Manchester’s streets. Inside, an evocative bar and dining space await patrons who prefer to dine indoors.
Venturing upstairs, you’ll find a variety of seating options on the middle floor. Whether you choose one of their regular restaurant tables or opt for something more special, like the chef’s table near the open kitchen, every seat promises an exciting experience filled with tantalizing aromas and flavours.
But perhaps one of El Gato Negro’s most captivating features is its top-floor terrace. Adorned with a retractable roof, this remarkable outdoor space offers guests a stunning setting to savour their food and drinks while enjoying panoramic views of Manchester.
From start to finish, El Gato Negro Tapas Manchester provides an exquisite culinary journey that combines traditional Spanish flavours with a modern flair. With each visit, you’re sure to be delighted by their attention to detail and dedication to creating memorable experiences for all who enter their doors.
9. BrickHouse Social
- Website: www.brickhouse.social
- Mail: info@brickhouse.social
- Location: 11-13 New Wakefield St, M1 5NP
- Menu: Food and Drinks
- Timing: Sunday to Thursday: 12 pm – 2 am, Friday and Saturday: 12 pm – 4 am
BrickHouse Social, located on New Wakefield Street, is the latest addition to Oxford Road’s vibrant neighbourhood. This collective space has been thoughtfully curated to create an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome, embodying the idea that their house is your house. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely espresso on the rooftop terrace, a lively game of pool during lunchtime, or winding down with a refreshing cocktail or pale ale in the taproom at day’s end – BrickHouse Social has it all.
On Saturdays, they offer a delightful experience with bottomless brunch on their sunlit terrace. And if you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere after spending a night at KABLE, their underground club and event space, Sundays are the perfect time to unwind.
Committed to quality and sustainability, BrickHouse Social aligns itself with like-minded independent establishments that share their vision for providing exceptional offerings without compromising environmental responsibility. Open from midday, seven days a week, this new social establishment offers a laid-back haven for anyone seeking good vibes and great experiences.
10. The Woodstock Arms
- Website: www.thewoodstockarmsdidsbury.co.uk
- Contact: 0161 448 7951
- Location: 139 Barlow Moor Road, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M20 2DY
- Menu: Food and Drinks
- Timing: Monday to Thursday: 12:00 – 11:00 pm, Friday and Saturday: 12:00 pm – 01:00 am, Sunday: 12:00 – 10:30 pm
The Woodstock Arms is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Manchester. This beautifully restored building exudes charm and character, making it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a cosy evening. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by crackling log fires that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
But it’s not just the ambience that sets The Woodstock Arms apart; their menu offers an array of seasonal British dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. From hearty pies to succulent roasts, every dish is prepared with love and attention to detail.
To accompany your meal, The Woodstock Arms boasts an impressive selection of real ales sourced from local breweries. Sip on a pint while basking in the lively atmosphere, or take advantage of their outdoor seating area on warmer days.
If you’re looking for entertainment, this pub has got you covered. Live performances add even more excitement to an already vibrant setting. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, why not join in on one of their quiz nights? Test your knowledge while enjoying great company and delicious drinks.
With its large garden and various service options like dancing, The Woodstock Arms truly caters to all tastes. So whether you’re seeking a quiet evening by the fire or a night filled with music and laughter, this charming establishment has something for everyone.
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