The Best Winter Bars In Manchester

The nights are drawing in and the temperature has plummeted. That's right people... the coldest season is upon us. So, don your warmest coat or fluffiest socks before heading out for an evening of drinking, dancing and merriment. Whether you're looking for a cosy pub complete with roaring fires or a private igloo for Instagram-worthy pictures, we've rounded up the best bars in Manchester this winter.

Last edited by Kiera Chapman

Last updated on 14th November 2024




The Oast House

This Spinningfields boozer comes into its own in the winter period, boasting its very own pop-up tipi that makes it firmly on the list of our favourite winter outdoor bars in Manchester. Lit with twinkly lights, covered in fur throws and warmed by an open fire, The Oast House is one of the city's most atmospheric venues. 

NQ64 Manchester Northern Quarter

Head over to the Northern Quarter to discover NQ64, the popular activity bar covered in neon graffiti. They're best known for their retro gaming, from old-school consoles to arcade machines, offering Time Crisis, Guitar Hero and much more.

They've got an exciting Christmas terrace to enjoy too this year, bookable for anywhere between five and 200 guests at a time. This is covered with festive decorations, boasting heaters and more arcade games too, and you can also enjoy themed cocktails like the Lemmingade.

The Best Mulled Wine Bars

The ultimate of seasonal, wintery serves - especially around Christmas - mulled wine is the ideal way to warm yourself up by sipping through a steaming cup of something boozy. This spiced, hot wine can be found at waterfront bars, across pop-up Christmas market bars, inside tipis and more.

Bar Hütte

Bar Hütte is back once more this November, offering the people of Manchester one unique winter bar experience. Keeping to their signature après ski theme, the space is decorated with cosy chalets complete with festive lights, snug heat lamps and even a 'carol-oke' machine. 

Winter Island

Once again this year, Freight Island transforms into Winter Island - becoming the North's largest indoor and outdoor seasonal festival. Expect hot chocolates, mulled wine and cider from the seasonal market, as well as the usual residents like tequila cocktail bar Casa Pomelo, alongside Freight tap room for local pours.

Menagerie

Right in Salford, Menagerie offers everything pretty and pink, but they're also bringing the holiday spirit. You can choose from a selection of wine or candy cane cocktails, as well as festive canapes, Christmas-themed performances and a three-course menu.

Tattu

Known for turning their iconic cherry blossoms an icy blue and covering them in sparkling frost to celebrate the season, Tattu Manchester are making sure you can enjoy a wintery bar. Last year, the restaurant's walls came to life with 'The Last Snow', while limited edition themed cocktails and desserts were available too.

Ramona and The Firehouse's Winter Village

Get ready for a truly magical Christmas experience at Ramona's Winter Village in Manchester this 2024. This festive pop-up brings a vibrant winter wonderland to the heart of the city, offering everything you need for a fun-filled holiday season. With its charming alpine-style huts, twinkling lights, and cosy outdoor seating, it creates the perfect atmosphere for celebrating with loved ones. 

Indulge in delicious seasonal food and drinks, from hot mulled wine and spiced cider to tasty festive treats and the venue's popular Detroit-style pizzas (including festive slices topped with pigs in blankets and turkey gravy). The village also features an exciting range of winter activities, live entertainment, and seasonal cocktails to keep you in the holiday spirit all day and night.