August Bank Holiday In Manchester

In need of August bank holiday Monday events in Manchester? Grab the gang to head over to Alcotraz, where the prison-themed cocktail experience will have you donning orange jumpsuits and sipping on contraband cocktails.

Still haven't experienced the madness that is the Manchester Brunch Social? Now's your chance. Not only is Flight Club hosting an afternoon of prosecco and pizza to celebrate the long weekend, but they're also offering you the opportunity to beat your mates on the oche.

Is there any better way to round up the summer than by relaxing under the sun with a pint in hand? We didn't think so. That's why we've got you covered with a list of the very best beer gardens across the city. Whether you're in the mood for fruity cocktails on a rooftop or a cask ale overlooking the docks, we've got views and top-notch tipples aplenty here. From 11 Central to The Lawn Club or The Woodstock Arms, there's so many great spots to explore.

Manchester bank holidays in 2025 are made all the better by The Hip Hop Orchestra Brunch - and August's long weekend is no exception. Sip through 90 minutes of unlimited rum punch or fizz, chow down on American soul food, and enjoy the live performances alongside DJs.

Gather your friends this bank holiday for an Electric Shuffle Brunch from £30 per person. This fun venue will have your afternoon activities covered with prosecco, bottomless pizza and a shuffle sampler. Enjoy a two hour session where you'll spend half battling it out around the table and the toasting at the bar. There'll also be a mix of orange juice carafes available should you fancy mixing it up and creating mimosas. 

Obsessed with all things Beyoncé or Gaga? So are the queens at this dedicated brunch extravaganza. Watch incredible performances from a collective of the city's best drag artists, all of which can be enjoyed with delicious dishes and unlimited prosecco.

Though the weather in Manchester may be a little unpredictable to say the least, when the sun's shining there's nowhere better to be than in one of the city's gorgeous outdoor restaurants. Whether you're in the mood for authentic Italian eats on a beautiful terrace, small plates by the water or casual pub fare on a rooftop, there are plenty of places to try - including the glamourous 20 Stories and the stunning Sunset By Australasia.

Offering some of our favourite August bank holiday events in the North West, Cherry Jam is the Stockport venue with two bottomless events across the weekend. Kick off your Saturday with afternoon tea accompanied by free-flowing cocktails, or mosey over on Sunday for sharing platters and the same unlimited drinks.

Love all your hops and malt-laced brews? Then the Manchester Craft Beer Experience has your Saturday sorted on this long weekend. You'll stop off at a number of the city's best taprooms and breweries, trying drinks at each.

Head over to The Spirit of Manchester Distillery this August bank holiday to try some award-winning spirits as part of its gin-tasting experience, from £30 per person. There's even the opportunity to learn how to make it yourself, from £135. This includes everything from learning about the history of the production process, selecting your own botanicals and distilling your own 700ml bottle to take home. 

Three Little Words is hosting a cocktail masterclass every Saturday at The Spirit of Manchester Distillery on Watson Street where you can indulge in an evening of top-class tipples and learn how to make your own. The bar team will be on hand to guide you through all the skills you need to make signature sips after you've enjoyed a classic French 75s upon arrival.

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Manchester? Then head far above the city for some of the prettiest rooftop bars around. There are plenty of pretty spots in the city to look out over with a drink in hand, whether you're in the mood for refreshing pints or an enticing spritz cocktail this bank holiday. We've got stunning picks like The Ivy in Spinningfields, SkyLounge at Doubletree or Terrace NQ on our list, so you're spoilt for choice here.

Manchester Pride 2025 is filling your bank holiday weekend with drag shows, the parade, community events, a full arts programme and, of course, all the highlights of that Gay Village Party. Check out our guide of unmissable things to do here.

Though you may not know it, Manchester is a city that's absolutely full of history and culture. That's why we've rounded up 16 of the very best museums and galleries to visit this bank holiday this weekend, from the Science and Industry museum to The Pankhurst Centre. You'll find everything from famous portraits to the history of football and even a 130-year-old sperm whale skeleton across these spots, so there's plenty to keep you entertained across this city.

Looking for something free to do this bank holiday weekend? Then check out some of the very best walking routes in and around Manchester, ranging from six-mile hikes to short strolls around a park. We've rounded up nine of the very top spots for a scenic walk, including the gorgeous Middle Black Clough waterfall, Tegg's Nose Country Park and Medlock Valle Way.