DesignMyNight's guide to an alternative alcohol - free night out in Manchester.
Fast paced and flourescent, the atmosphere at at Dog Bowl is electric: this multi-natured Oxford Road hangout delivers an ultra-cool, carefree smattering of fun. An open plan restaurant extends into a sleek bowling alley, allowing the peckish to nibble on hearty quesadillas, and the fun-loving to immerse themselves in a bit of healthy competition.
Essentially an ice cream van for adults (inside Afflecks, Northern Quarter), Ginger’s Comfort Emporium serves up a happy spectrum of ice creams to the weather worn sweet toothed of Manchester. Great for an early evening treat (open until 6pm), Ginger's offers a crazy selection of ice cream from French Elvis (french toast filled with the dairy delight) to Plum Crumble.
Ping Pong at Twenty Twenty Two
A warehouse space in the Northern Quarter, Twenty Twenty Two is as diverse as it is rowdy; specialising in music, arts and ping pong. Four ping pong tables are available to book, whilst the walls exhibit artwork from local and international artists; a charming alternative to nightlife in Manchester.
Non-Alcoholic Cocktails at The Alchemist, Spinningfields
Manchester boasts some of the most talented mixologists in the UK, so why not head to The Alchemist in Manchester’s Spinningfields to enjoy some of the best non-alcoholic cocktails. Sample drinks such as the Canadian Collins, a happy blend of apple juice, orange juice, maple foam and a dash of maple syrup and lime juice, or Ollies Cucumber Sling: apple, elderflower, lemon and cucumber.
Route 66 Drive In Cinema - closed
Hark back to the date nights of generations past with a trip to this drive in cinema. Tune your car radio into their FM frequency and order snacks and Dominos direct to your drive; tickets will set you back a bargain £20 per car, regardless of capacity.