Manchester Now
Discover what’s happening right now.
1.
The Kings Arms
As much a cultural hub as a pub, the Kings has been transformed under the management of Jon Cooper. The Salford boozer's upstairs, with a nautical theme, plays host to new theatre, gigs and film nights, while the ground floor snug is home to a weekly knitting club. Map link.
2.
The New Oxford
Further up Salford's Chapel Street, the New Oxford is a beer connoisseur's top local destination. It's small but carries an impressive array of both continental bottles and hand-pulled cask ales. Try to visit during one of the New Oxford's regular beer festivals – when you'll be able to choose from dozens of additional beers over a weekend. Map link.
3.
The Marble Arch
An all-round favourite. The Marble Arch is off the beaten track and requires its patrons to go the extra mile – the reward for doing so: a spectacular 120-year-old pub bustling all day long. Be sure to try the selection of Marble beers, which are brewed on site. Map links.
4.
Bar Fringe
A Belgian-style bar with regularly changing cask ales and a fridge packed full of strong continental ales. Fringe boasts one of the most diverse jukeboxes in town, and a beer garden that the regulars brave in practically any weather. The bar staff here are always up for a bit of banter. Map link.
5.
Sandbar
Situated in the middle of the main university area, this large bar is occupied by a fun mix of older students and younger professionals. It's also the main meeting point for Manchester's substantial cycling community. Go for the beer – and maybe stick around for the regular music sessions. Map link.
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The Smithfield is worth a mention too. Constantly changing selection of real ales (about 7 at a time) in a pub pretty much enchanged since the 50's. Next to Band On The Wall and well worth a visit if you're going to a gig there.
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The Knott, The City (Kennedy Street), Black Lion (Blackfriars), The Crescent (Salford), Bulls Head (by Piccadilly station), and Britons Protection (Albion/Gt Bridgewater St) are all also worth a punt for a decent pint. Continental lager fans should also visit Cask (Liverpool Road) for a decent beer and cracking jukebox
Slip Digby