MCR boasts a hive of activity like no other across the UK because us northern folk know how to do it best. From its art scene down to its hospitality industry, you'll find no shortage of exciting things to do. But, when the need for a good drinking sesh strikes? Check out our recommendations for the most fun Manchester bars.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 28th August 2024
The best of bars for fun drinks, The Alchemist is the renowned home of fizzing and foaming theatrical cocktails. Closer to Media City or New York Street? You can still head on over to one of these swish venues for a range of tipples.
Bringing plenty of activities to your night out at a bar? Think 1UP, where everything from D&D to Pokemon cards, board games, arcade machines and classic consoles await. There's even a UV room for beer pong, alongside a Pac-Mac theme in the beer garden.
Located in Spinningfields, this three-storey venue is Dirty martini's first location in the North - and it truly is something special. Expect sparkly gold decor and cool, quirky touches throughout the space, as well as some of the most delicious cocktails around. You can enjoy these for just £7 during their happy hour, alongside £4.50 beers and £15.50 bottles of wine, running from 4 until 8pm every day except for Saturday, and 2pm until 1.30am on Sundays.
When it comes to fun bars in Manchester's Gay Village, The Brewers has plenty to offer, including happy hour deals and a dazzling dancefloor. If that wasn't enough, there's also a whole host of events - think drag, comedy, burlesque and live music.
The most fun cocktail bars in Manchester are topped off by The Liquor Store. Not only are there rock 'n' roll vibes and a bustling atmosphere here, but the mixologists really put on a show while they're shaking up your drinks.
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On the last Friday of every month The Lawn Club hosts a sell-out event, Famous First Words. You can test your music knowledge and win prizes by finishing lyrics, all while sipping cocktails across this fun drinking den. Take advantage of their outdoor bar while you're here too, where you can nab refreshing spritz cocktails that are perfect for relaxing with on their sunny, foliage covered terrace area.
Thought darts wasn't fun? Then you clearly haven't been to Flight Club, one of the most cutting-edge bars with activities in Manchester. It uses high-tech oches, fairground interiors and sharing cocktails to make sure you're having the best time possible.
Sixes Cricket Manchester sees you take to the crease for an interactive batting sesh, one that lets you go up against the best bowlers in the world. For afters, expect live sports, hearty grub and drinks at the bar.
In need of the most fun bars with activities in Manchester? 7 Sins is packed out with graffiti, low lighting, pool and arcade games like Street Fighter. The cool cocktail list shouldn't be passed up either, as the unique mixes will tantalise your tastebuds.
From the bottomless brunches to DJs and live entertainment, BLVD is the luxe den inspired by Miami, New York and LA that's got plenty in store. Grab cocktails from the bar and then dance the night away afterwards.
@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: Manchester on Various dates from Tuesday 31st December 2024
On the hunt for fun secret bars in Manchester? Alcotraz is the speakeasy prison answering your call. Smuggle your liquor in past the warden to be rewarded with bespoke cocktails and an immersive story.
Salt Dog Slims is a great place to enjoy a night out, making it one of the greatest drinking dens for all kinds of fun. Think pool, signature cocktails, cheap hot dogs and drinks from the beer vending machine to boot.
Via is a fun gay bar where drag performances, karaoke, cabaret and more await. Make your way to this Canal Street hotspot to see what all the fuss is about, grabbing some cocktails to sip before dancing the night away to DJ sets.
Welcome to Albert's Schloss Manchester, the beer and pleasure palace of your dreams. They serve the finest steins of beer from across Europe and delicious traditional cook haus cuisine. And don't forget the epic live entertainment every night of the week.
When it comes down to fun activity spots in Manchester, Boom Battle Bar is sure to impress. From shuffleboard to private karaoke rooms and live DJ sets this venue has it all. On top of that, there's also tasty grub to get stuck into. Think nachos or chicken tenders.
Combining speakeasy-style interiors with simulation shooting games, Point Blank Shooting is one of the most fun game bars in Manchester. Topping it off? Sundays see bottomless brunch hit the venue, with 90 minutes of unlimited booze, pizza and gaming for just £35 per person.
One of the best bars in Manchester city centre for a bit of fun, Blues Kitchen is a staple of the city's nightlife scene. Expect to guzzle bourbon-laced cocktails or spicy margs, alongside live music to accompany and DJs late into the night.
Leaving boring boozers and cocktail caverns behind, Revolution has arrived. A party powerhouse brimming with burgers, cocktail hours, masterclasses, DJ nights and more, this happening spot is one of the best bars in Manchester.
Theatre, bar and restaurant Impossible sees you dress up to the nines and enjoy an evening packed with quirky entertainment. From their nights of killer DJs to roasts with bottomless sides, this stellar spot is serving up one helluva treat on Peter Street.
A fun choice of activity bars in Manchester, Twenty Twenty Two is a haven of darts, ping pong and unique cocktails. Not only that, but there are also underground DJ sets and big names on the cards once night falls.
When fun and cheap bars in Manchester are on your mind, Bunny Jackson's Juke Joint ought to fit the bill. Think bandoke, live music, bargain wings and a whole load of cheap booze to accompany your rock 'n' roll evening.
Night and Day Cafe is a must for live music, as many of their shows are either very cheap entry or totally free. Whatever your favourite genre, these guys have it covered too, with everything from disco DJ sets to Elbow and local showcases.
The most fun rooftop bars in Manchester? YES has to be up there. Not only is there a sky-high outdoor terrace, but also a beer garden, pink gig room and downstairs space packed with cheap pizza slices and vegan kebabs.
