Best Rooftop Bars In Manchester

• Location: 1 Hardman Street, M3 3AQ
• Price: £££
• For views of: Spinningfields
• Dress code: smart
• Booking tip: reservations are strongly recommended here, it's one of the best places to dine with a view in the city 
• Why I recommend: part of The Evolv Collection, 20 Stories is Manchester's highest place to eat and drink, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, enchanting foliage, and plush furnishings. I love this bar and restaurant for a first date spot - even a second or third. It screams romance, and the cocktail menu is delightfully refined. You can look forward to bubbles at sunset, or a signature sip like Cloud 9, made using Havana 3-year, Flor de Cana 12 Rum, and coconut

Perched in the clouds at one of the city's most enviable addresses, 20 Stories is firmly on the list of most beautiful rooftop bars in Manchester city centre. Chill out on the expansive patio, which comes complete with English garden-style touches, igloos in winter and some of the finest modern British food in town.

Floor-to-ceiling windows let floods of natural light in, which is particularly impressive during golden hour. Dress up in something a little bit fancy and venture over to the cocktail bar for 360-degree views and bespoke cocktails like Garden View, featuring Monkey 47 Gin and elderflower cordial.

• Location: Beetham Tower, Hilton Hotel, 303 Deansgate, M3 4LQ
• Price: ££
• For views of: a panorama of the city skyline
• Dress code: smart casual. Avoid sportswear, tracksuits, gym trainers, caps, and flip flops.
• Booking tip: be sure to book in advance as it gets busy during peak hours. Go for the guaranteed window option for the best views in the house. 
• Why I recommend: with floor to ceiling windows right around around the bar, Cloud 23 is hard to beat for a cocktail or two with striking city views

On the 23^rd floor of the iconic Beetham Tower, Cloud 23 gives you breathtaking views across Manchester with its creative and innovative cocktails. The views inside are just as good, with sleek interiors, plush seating and low, inviting lighting.

There's plenty to pair with your favourite tipples here too. We're talking indulgent afternoon teas and tasty tapas-style nibbles.

• Location: St Michaels Building, 36 Jackson's Row, M2 5WD
• Price: £££
• For views of: Spinningfields 
• Dress code: smart casual 
• Booking tip: reservations are required, and make sure to try to get a seat by the window
• Why I recommend: I'm obsessed with Chotto Matte - it's a chic Tokyo-meets-Lima penthouse right in the heart of Manchester. It's tucked away atop the No. 1 St Michael's development, and while the 360-degree skyline views are the initial draw, the electric atmosphere is what keeps you there. The open sushi counter and flaming robata grill give the whole space a theatrical edge that's perfect for a big night out

Chotto Matte's first UK restaurant outside London packs in much more than a show-stopping Japanese-Peruvian menu. On the rooftop of Gary Neville's much-anticipated St Michael's development, it hides one of Manchester's newest sky-high bars. 

Head on up to sip signature cocktails, such as a mezcalito featuring Los Siete Misterios Doba Yej mezcal, fresh apple juice, and make your way through over 200 tequilas and mezcals with perfectly paired skyline views. Laidback and sophisticated by day, it transforms into a den of live DJs and energetic tunes by night.

• Location: ABC Building Rooftop, 21-23 Quay Street, M3 4AE
• Price: £££
• For views of: Spinningfields, River Irwell, Castlefield
• Dress code: smart
• Booking tip: this one's popular, book in advance for your event 
• Why I recommend: I think The Dome offers a sleek and stylish escape from the city bustle below. The atmosphere is effortlessly cool, combining a chic aesthetic with panoramic views. I love how you can have a spritz and relax on one of the many sun chairs scattered about the rooftop. There's a bar up there, too, so you don't have to go far for your second round

The Dome stands as the city's go-to rooftop destination for unforgettable events. Nestled in the heart of Manchester, it offers a distinctive space that wows every guest.

With its versatile blank canvas design, The Dome seamlessly transitions between indoor and outdoor settings, making it perfect for any occasion - from vibrant summer soirées to magical winter gatherings. Check out its fantastic food and drinks offering too, featuring street food like beef burgers, jerk-style chicken skewers and lamb koftas.

• Location: 10 Booth Street, M2 4AW
• Price: £££
• For views of: Manchester Art Gallery, Piccadilly Gardens, Town Hall clock tower, River Irwell 
• Dress code: smart casual 
• Booking tip: whether it's an overnight stay or a couple of drinks on the roof terrace, book in advance 
• Why I recommend: I adore the King Street Townhouse Hotel, as it offers a timeless, sophisticated rooftop in the form of The Tavern, its British restaurant. The crowning jewel is the rooftop infinity pool and terrace, which provides an incredibly intimate view of the Town Hall clock tower

The King Street Townhouse Hotel is an upscale boutique hotel housed in a magnificent 1800s building that originally served as a bank. It is part of the THG More collection and is celebrated for its 'baby grand' hotel concept - small enough to feel personal, but grand enough to offer world-class amenities.

The terrace is stylish, complete with panoramic views, fairy lights, and well-maintained foliage, giving it an alfresco feel. There's also an amazing infinity pool that's only open to hotel guests. Beyond its famous rooftop, the hotel features a luxurious destination spa, a private cinema room, and an elegant tavern serving classic British fare.

• Location: 23 Deansgate, Princess Street, M2 4EB
• Price: £££
• For views of: Central Retail District, Manchester Art Gallery, Deansgate
• Dress code: smart 
• Booking tip: make sure this is your next date night destination and book ahead to impress
• Why I recommend: the space is beautifully designed with low lighting and plush seating, creating an intimate atmosphere that feels like a hidden sanctuary above the Deansgate rush. It's undeniable that the experience is elevated by the view; the outdoor terrace is one of the most stylish spots in the city for a sunset drink, and I'd suggest it to anyone looking for quality cocktails with the small plates to match

On the lookout for rooftop bars in Manchester's Deansgate? Sora Sky Bar at Malmaison is a rooftop gem serving up small plates with big flavour. Think Japanese fried chicken, Thai-style prawns and expertly mixed cocktails with Japanese-inspired flavours like peach and lychee spritz or miso old fashioned, all with panoramic views of the city.

The terrace offers a stunning, bird's-eye view of Manchester's architectural icons, making it a prime spot for golden hour. It's the perfect spot for sunset drinks or a stylish date night.

• Location: 100 King Street, M2 4WU
• Price: £££
• For views of: Northern Quarter
• Dress code: dress to impress
• Booking tip: while this spot is only open to members or hotel guests, you should still book your spot for the bar on weekends to avoid disappointment 
• Why I recommend: for a luxurious environment, I think Club Brass has an elusive and appealing feel. I'd suggest it as a go-to for organising meetings if you want to impress, as well as a special date if you book a room at Hotel Gotham, too. Registration fees begin at £100 per couple, and you can even opt in for an annual subscription

The luxurious Hotel Gotham harbours a secret - and that's one of the swankiest rooftop cocktail bars in Manchester. While only open to hotel guests and members, this intimate retreat is the ultimate location for cocktails or Champagne with plenty of stunning views across the Northern Quarter. 

On the way to Club Brass, you'll pass through vault-like doors to the Prohibition-style speakeasy, which is adorned with rich chocolate-coloured leather sofas, candlight and golden flourishes. It has an opulent feel and is housed in an iconic Edwin Lutyens building. On the menu? Signature cocktails like The King of King Street, Belboy Barry's Bramble, and Lady Crumpsall's Champagne Cocktail. 

• Location: 52 King Street, M2 4LY
• Price: ££
• For views of: Northern Quarter
• Dress code: smart casual 
• Booking tip: come hungry, and make sure to book your spot in advance, especially for groups, as this place fills up quickly 
• Why I recommend: I love El Gato Negro for its brilliant tapas offers (three for £20) and its suntrap terrace. It's a well-respected place to eat as well as to drink, having held a Bib Gourmand from 2017 to 2024. On a clear blue day, it comes alive, and you feel as though you've been transported to Spain without the air miles, sangria in hand and lapping up the rays

You can really imagine that you're in a stunning Spanish city with El Gato Negro, the central tapas bar with a rooftop terrace and thirst-quenching cocktails that are perfect on those rare sunny days. Dinner dates? Sun-soaked sips? You'll find it all here.

Since opening in 2014 in a stunning three-storey townhouse, it's been bringing heritage charm with a modern edge, which you'll find plenty of on its terrace (think checkerboard accents, red leather stools, and vintage-looking tables). You can enjoy sky-high patatas bravas and sangria all year round here, thanks to its retractable roof terrace. More favourite drinks include the margarita and a signature Apicot Blossom, made using Tanqueray Flor de Seville.

• Location: The Pavilion, Byrom Street, M3 3HG
• Price: £££
• For views of: Spinningfields 
• Dress code: smart casual 
• Booking tip: book your table in advance, whether it's brunch or just drinks, as The Ivy Spinningfields is very popular
• Why I recommend: I enjoy The Ivy Spinnfields rooftop bar for a summer sip, and can't resist booking myself in for something to eat at either its brasserie or The Ivy Asia. I think it's a great place to have a get-together with your friends, surrounded by blush pink parasols, foliage and comfy booths. My favourite thing to order while I'm there is a G&T with some small plates to share 

On the hunt for a rooftop bar? Manchester's The Ivy Spinningfields is a gorgeous pick - the perfect spot to soak up the last of the summer sun. Sitting high above the city with panoramic views, The Ivy on the Roof features a brasserie-meets-Asian fusion menu, cocktails, and live DJ entertainment every weekend.

You'll find small and large plates packed with bold seasonal flavours, including yellowfin tuna tataki, wagyu short rib croquettes, lobster and prawn rolls, and a peach, prosciutto and mozzarella salad. Drinks-wise, you can expect seasonal cocktails, G&Ts, beers, ciders and more. 

• Location: 29 Ducie Street, Manchester City Centre, M1 2JL
• Price: £££
• For views of: Greater Manchester
• Dress code: smart casual
• Booking tip: reserve a table on the Terrace well in advance, especially for weekend evening spritzes or a sunny afternoon brunch
• Why we recommend: I absolutely love Dakota Hotel Manchester because it brings a flawless sense of moody, dark-hued luxury right to the heart of the city. The terrace is a beautifully landscaped, plant-fringed sanctuary equipped with a fully retractable roof and heaters that allow you to escape the Manchester elements completely

Dakota Hotel in Manchester's rooftop terrace is a brilliant, serene oasis with plenty of dangling foliage, and a fully retractable roof that makes it perfect for whatever the Manucian weather brings. 

From perfectly chilled champagne to expertly crafted cocktails, the drinks menu is designed to impress. You'll get to sink into plush, comfortable seating while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of one of the city's most fashionable crowds. Come evening, the entire space softens under dramatic, low-level lighting that sets the ultimate upscale tone. Hungry? The adjoining Dakota Grill serves up premium, showcase steaks and refined brasserie classics, while the dedicated Cigar Garden and Champagne Room offer even more intimate corners to keep the night going.

• Location: Kampus, 24a Minshull Street, M1 3EF
• Price: ££
• For views of: Kampus gardens, canal-side walkways, Piccadilly 
• Dress code: casual chic
• Booking tip: tables on the terrace fill up fast in good weather, so book ahead or arrive early for walk-ins
• Why I recommend: The Beeswing is a laid-back rooftop-style terrace that's all about chilling in its sun-drenched garden and browsing its excellent wine selection in the height of summer alongside some delicious pinxtos that'll have you mentally transported to Spain

Tucked into the Kampus neighbourhood, The Beeswing brings a Mediterranean spirit to Manchester's rooftop scene. What it lacks in height, its roof terrace makes up for in tranquillity- overlooking leafy gardens and the canal, it delivers that golden-hour magic with a glass in hand and nowhere else to be.

The rotating wine list champions low-intervention, organic and sustainable bottles, with playful wine flights (any three for £15) that make it easy to explore. Sip everything from crisp Albariño and mineral Muscadet to elegant sparkling rosé, perfect for sipping as the sun dips behind the city. Alongside, you can enjoy a tight selection of pintxos designed for grazing, such as king prawns with garlic and rosemary on crusty bread, flaky txistorra sausage rolls with jamón Ibérico, and indulgent patatas layered with manchego and herbs. 

• Location: 48 Greenwood Street, Altrincham, WA14 1RZ
• Price: ££
• For views of: Central Way
• Dress code: causal
• Booking tip: come thirsty, hungry, and make sure to book ahead for dates or large groups in the summer
• Why I recommend: I'm a huge fan of The Con because it manages to feel like an exclusive destination while remaining incredibly welcoming. It features a stunning hidden rooftop terrace - a secret cedar-clad oasis that is perfect for escaping the bustle of the nearby Market Quarter. The interior is equally impressive, with high ceilings and an open kitchen and sushi bar that provide a sense of culinary theatre

Get your fix of potent cocktails and craft beers at The Con Club, an Altrincham drinking and dining den. Not only does it have an on-site microbrewery and hidden rooftop tipi, which makes it one of our favourite bars with a view in Manchester, but it's also got a great menu of sushi and seafood if you get peckish.

You'll love the tranquil, secret garden feel of it all, and it's a great shout for a sun-drenched cocktail on the roof or a late-night dinner in the atmospheric main hall. You can look forward to the likes of lychee martinis, Disco Baby (made with Cachaca, strawberries and lime), and a great negroni. 

• Location: 43 Thomas Street, M4 1NA
• Price: ££
• For views of: Northern Quarter, Piccadilly Gardens 
• Dress code: casual - wrap up warm for when the sun goes in 
• Booking tip: I'd suggest trying a walk-in here, though on the weekends it's always best to book in advance for DJ nights
• Why I recommend: I think this one is for the beer lovers, thanks to its strong selection of cask ales and guest taps. It's got a great stripped-back look to it, with vintage old-school furniture that creates a playful feel. It can be super cosy too, come the evening, when the fairy lights take centre stage, and it's far from short on entertainment. I find the DJ nights on weekends to be a particular highlight 

Terrace NQ is a rooftop bar in Manchester's Northern Quarter framed by exposed brick walls and a distinctive stripped-back look. When the clouds part, it becomes a sun trap surrounded by plenty of foliage and fairy lights. It's a lovely spot for a casual bite to eat and drink with your friends, or on a date. You can relax with a range of locally sourced ales and beers, making it one incredible spot to unwind after a hard day of work, too.

Plus, you'll find sangrias being slung out in the summer, and fruity cocktails like a strawberry and hibiscus sour. There's an outdoor bar so you don't have to go far to get your order, and some delicious pizza on the menu too. 

• Location: 376 Deansgate, M3 4LY
• Price: ££
• For views of: Deansgate, Rochdale Canal Tow Path, Castlefield
• Dress code: smart casual 
• Booking tip: without a doubt, book well in advance for a rooftop spot with your friends 
• Why I recommend: I like the fact that Atlas treats gin with a theatrical level of expertise, boasting over 570 varieties from across the globe. The real draw is their award-winning, south-facing terrace, which is fully retractable and heated, making it a lush, plant-filled escape right under the city's historic brick arches

Gin, anyone? Atlas Bar has more juniper-laced pours than you can shake a stick at (over 570 at their last count), alongside that sunny terrace to boot, which is heated for when it gets a little chilly, and south-facing for when the sun comes out to play. This lovely little space might not be the highest rooftop around, but it's just as good for catching some rays while sipping delicious drinks.

It's been running for over 25 years, and you can find it nestled in the railway arches of Deansgate. It has a lot of accolades to its name, too, like Winner of Best Spirits Bar North West and Best Bar Team North West in The Great British Pub Awards, alongside the DesignMyNight Best Beer Garden Award.

• Location: 22 George Street, WA14 1SG
• Price: ££
• For views of: Stamford Quarter and Altrincham's shopping district
• Dress code: casual
• Booking tip: while they welcome walk-ins, it's worth booking a table for the 5pm happy hour rush to snag a spot on the sun-soaked terrace
• Why I recommend: Nell's has brought a slice of NYC cool to the heart of Altrincham. When the sun hits that massive outdoor terrace right as the margaritas start flowing, there isn't a better place in the suburbs to be

NYC-inspired but Manchester-made, Nell's Altrincham has quickly become the go-to anchor for the Stamford Quarter. Known for their enormous 22-inch pies and creative toppings, ranging from the classic Double Down Pepperoni to the local favourite Cheese and Onion Pie, they offer a sourdough crust that's become the talk of the town.

If you're looking for a midday bargain, their 777 Lunch Deal is a total game-changer, offering a full 14-inch pizza for just £7.77 on weekdays. But the real magic happens as evening approaches. The bar boasts a huge terrace that catches the best of the afternoon sun, making it the premier destination for an outdoor drink.

• Location: 4a Moss Lane, Altrincham, WA14 1BA
• Price: ££-£££
• For views of: Greater Manchester
• Dress code: smart casual
• Booking tip: make this a date spot and book in advance
• Why we recommend: I absolutely love Tre Ciccio because it captures a warm, rustic Italian soul. The absolute highlight is the stunning all-weather terrace with a retractable roof, which makes dining here feel like an escape to a neighbourhood trattoria in Campania, regardless of the Manchester weather. It's usually buzzing and packed with locals who know exactly where to find the best wood-fired cooking in the area

Amalfi spritzes, negronis and Lombardy wines are all on the menu at Tre Ciccio, an Italian bar and restaurant outside of Manchester. Head here for a day spent sipping delicious drinks while topping up your tan on its beautiful, plant-filled rooftop space with a retractable roof and heaters -  perfect for drinking and dining year-round.

You'll get your own comfy booth to settle into, be able to gaze up at (hopefully blue skies), and come the evening, the terrace lights up with soft golden orbs dangling from above. Hungry? At the heart of the restaurant is the wood-burning oven, where you can watch Neapolitan pizzas and slow-roasted pollo scucchiato being prepared.

• Location: 36 Bridge Street, M3 3BT
• Price: ££
• For views of: Spinningfields, River Irwell
• Dress code: casual
• Booking tip: walk-ins are welcome here, but if you're looking for a spot on the roof terrace, then you should secure your place in advance during peak hours
• Why I recommend: I'm a huge fan of this specific Honest Burgers. It's set over three floors in a gorgeous Grade II-listed building, but the real secret is the sun-trapped rooftop terrace and taproom tucked away at the top. They really lean into the local scene here, too - they partnered with Runaway Brewery to run the top-floor bar, and you have to try the Manchester Special burger, which comes loaded with rum BBQ sauce and shoestring fries 

Honest Burgers is bringing so much more than just their signature patties. The burger joint has teamed up with Runaway Brewery to open a snug little terrace, which is one of the best rooftop restaurants. It serves ice-cold brews with impressive views all year round.

Potted plants around the sides give it a slight garden feel, and the wooden table tops are rustic. Should you order the signature burger, opt for a plant-based affair, or the pesto chicken, paired with a cold Brooklyn Pilsner or Moth margarita, you'll feel like you're having the ultimate picnic in the heart of Spinningfields.

• Location: 296 Oxford Road, M13 9NS
• Price: £
• For views of: Oxford Road corridor and the University architecture
• Dress code: casual 
• Booking tip: no bookings here - it's a walk-in-only dive bar, so get in early if there's a gig at the Academy
• Why I recommend: Big Hands is a legendary late-night institution that feels like a slice of downtown NYC dropped into the heart of Manchester's student district. While it's famous for its raw, DIY music energy and its status as the ultimate post-gig haunt, the real secret is the rooftop terrace. It's a leafy urban escape that feels worlds away from the city centre, and perfect for nursing a continental beer while listening to the faint hum of a soundcheck downstairs

On the hunt for cheap rooftop bars in Manchester? A cornerstone of the city's independent scene since 2001, Big Hands is loud, lived-in, and packed with character, with walls plastered in music history and vinyl DJs spinning everything from garage-rock to soul.

The rooftop terrace provides a buzzing, atmospheric contrast to the dark, cosy dive bar interiors. It's a year-round staple for the city's musicians and night owls, and it has recently levelled up with the addition of Rizzo's. You can now head upstairs to grab authentic Sicilian street food like crispy arancini and fresh pizza slices.

• Location: 11-13 New Wakefield Street, M1 5NP
• Price: ££
• For views of: River Medlock, Manchester Oxford Road
• Dress code: casual 
• Booking tip: I'd definitely pre-book, particularly on match days, as it's very popular for its live sports 
• Why I recommend: Brickhouse Social is the perfect playground for adults, and it features a stunning hidden rooftop terrace that is a true urban oasis, complete with a retractable roof and its own bar. I think it's a great place to visit with your mates, as there are pool tables, live music, and late-night DJ sets

Brickhouse Social is a versatile multi-level venue on New Wakefield Street that prides itself on being a social cornerstone for Manchester's creative and student crowds. It's housed in a rugged brick building that masks a highly polished interior, featuring a dedicated pool room, a Day of the Dead-themed basement for events, and a kitchen serving up artisanal pizzas.

Naturally, its roof terrace is a real highlight, blending the inside with the outside by featuring dangling foliage, benches and exposed brick features. On warm days, you'll find seating areas to get sun-drenched, though there's still a handful tucked away in the shade if you're looking to cool off. To drink? Classic cocktails like pornstar martinis, eight beers rotating on tap, and shots. 

• Location: 38 Charles Street, M1 7DB
• Price: ££
• For views of: River Medlock, Manchester Metropolitan University 
• Dress code: casual 
• Booking tip: if you're looking to head to one of YES's events, book your tickets in advance; otherwise, walk-ins for rooftop food and drinks are welcome
• Why I recommend: I think that YES is one of those multi-layered spots where you can start your afternoon with a coffee and end it dancing on a rooftop. It has an industrial, DIY edge, and the roof terrace is the crowning jewel; it's a verdant, plant-filled escape with turquoise beams and rustic-chic decor that feels like a tropical greenhouse in the middle of the city. Watching the trains rattle past the terrace while sipping a spritz is an atmospheric experience

This former auction house is one of the top rooftop bars Manchester has to offer, thanks to its bright pink gig space, industrial touches and beer garden terrace space to boot. The rooftop, laced with fairylights, is a great suntrap, and up there you can find £3.95 pints of Amstel and £5 Aperol spritzes. 

You can grab pizza slices here from Pepperoni Playboy (we're talking ones with a garlic bread base - ugh), all washed down with affordable pints and heady concoctions. There's also food from Trippy Chippy, who are serving up turffle mayonaise and parmesan fries. 

• Location: 28-30 John Dalton Street, M2 6HQ
• Price: ££
• For views of: Deansgate and Central Retail District 
• Dress code: casual
• Booking tip: in the summer, this terrace fills up fast, so book in advance 
• Why I recommend: I have a real soft spot for The Ape & Apple because it's a hidden-in-plain-sight gem. While most people are queuing for the flashy bars on Deansgate, you can slip in here and head straight to the top floor for their sun-soaked roof terrace. It's surprisingly spacious, heated for when the Manchester weather turns, and offers a great urban garden feel overlooking the city's historic architecture

A proper Deansgate boozer, The Ape & Apple offers all the quirks of a traditional pub, with a tile-fronted bar, as well as a few modern touches. Think wood panelling and cosy interiors, alongside a spacious roof terrace with panoramic views of the city, making it a top pick among outdoor bars.

It's a lovely, pretty space, and if you're thirsty, then a must-order is a pint of Joseph Holt's Bitter (brewed right here in Manchester). You'll find a lot of laughs here too, thanks to its Wednesday comedy nights, starting from 7.30pm. 

• Location: 20 Fountain Street, M2 3AW
• Price: ££
• For views of: area around Market Street
• Dress code: casual
• Booking tip: grab pints downstairs before making your way up to your rooftop booking, as there are fewer taps upstairs than down at the main bar. Thankfully, there's a lift for any trips back down you want to take
• Why I recommend: the main bar here features 30 craft beers on tap, including BrewDog's rival to Guinness (Black Heart) and refreshing pints like Elvis Juice, as well as a selection of the brand's spirits - perfect for craft beer lovers, but suitable for everyone else too. The rooftop here is a smaller space, but well-shaded for any especially hot heatwave days, and complete with fun games like Jenga as well as mega burgers or wings galore

If your ideal hotel rooftop comes with beer on tap in the bedroom, DogHouse Manchester has already won. Found moments from Market Street, it pairs quirky rooms featuring shower beer fridges and vinyl players with a rooftop bar serving craft pours.

Don't worry though, you can visit without needing to stay at the hotel. The main bar and rooftop are ready for bookings, and the roof has its very own bar and food ordering area housed within a quirky shipping container.