Best Bars With Entertainment In Manchester

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By scarlett welch Editor, DesignMyNight Scarlett has covered the UK's best restaurants, bars and events for DesignMyNight since 2023. She holds an MA in Media & Journalism, with bylines in The Crack magazine and South London News, among others. Last updated on 11th August 2026

We all know that there are some seriously great watering holes in this city, but when you're looking for something a little more interesting? Then check out our guide to the best bars with entertainment in Manchester.

With live music coming out of its ears, secret gaming spots around unassuming corners and activity favourites calling your name, this city is home to more than a few drinking dens with a difference. Between date nights and after-work specials, it's time that you got to know these unmissable spots.

Find out more about how we curated this guide in our Editorial Policy.

Best Entertainment Bars In Manchester




Albert's Schloss - Manchester

Complimentary Round - Drinks only Table and 6 other offers

From live music to kabaret, there's always something fun going on at Albert's Schloss. This buzzy joint hosts seven days of live performances, music, and kabaret, each with its own spektakulär theme and curated guest acts to keep you entertained every night of the week. From Baby Grand Slam to Friday Frölich and Pleasure Palace, they've got something to please everyone.

Trax Social

Located upstairs in the Printworks Manchester, Trax Social offers a whole lot in the entertainment department. Their immersive music quizzes take place on a regular basis, getting you and your team involved in trivia rounds on all genres, as well as musical activities like feel the beat and sing in-tune - costing £9 per person to attend.

That's not all though, as they've got private karaoke booths for groups of up to ten people, boasting a choice of more than 100,000 tunes. They've also got state-of-the-art racing simulators to try out, if you fancy competing against your friends. And afterwards, you can sip cocktails and tuck into everything from halloumi skewers to buttermilk chicken burgers.

Electric Shuffle Manchester

Happy Hour and 6 other offers

Head to Electric Shuffle in Deansgate for an evening full of shuffleboard, cracking food (think pizza for all) and tipples. This Art Deco-inspired venue has space for up to 16 players at a time and a menu of small plates to keep everyone satisfied throughout. Sip on quirky cocktails too, like the vodka-based Sweet Circuit or the Solar Eclipse, made with whisky. 

Black Cat Club Manchester

This competitive social club offers interactive darts with multiple game modes and tech shuffleboard, where the scoring is handled for you, so there's no need for arguments. It's not just about the games, though - The Black Cat Club boasts the best sports viewing experience in Manchester.

Think luxury surrounds, push-button service, and a premium atmosphere featuring elements of Manchester's iconic music scene. You'll also enjoy a delicious food menu, crafted by the masterminds behind El Gato Negro, with dishes like crispy chicken bites and pepperoni pizzas. 

NQ64 Manchester Peter Street

NQ64 on Peter Street or in Manchester's Northern Quarter is the ultimate destination when it comes to bars with a twist. You'll never be short of entertainment here while sipping on themed tipples, thanks to its expansive range of retro arcade games like Pac-Man, Super Mario Bros and, of course, Dance Stage 2 Euro Mix. The walls are covered in neon graffiti and the atmosphere is buzzing, making it a great choice for an evening out with mates and for pics to post on socials.

Immersive Gamebox

With your own private pod for getting involved in all kinds of fun activities, Immersive Gamebox is a totally unique pick. Order drinks to your room and get involved in everything from Squid Game to Angry Birds and alien aptitude tests, all while wearing a motion sensor on your head.

Night and Day Cafe

If you're on the hunt for live music bars in Manchester's Northern Quarter, chances are Night and Day Cafe have something for you. Showcasing a mighty measure of musical talent, while not being particular about genre, this haunt accommodates everything from international indie bands to house DJs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there bars with entertainment in Manchester that are good for groups?

Absolutely. Flight Club accommodates groups with its multiplayer darts format and weekend brunch socials, while The Black Cat Club offers bookable experiences with push-button service, and Alcotraz works brilliantly as a shared immersive experience. For something more laid-back, Salt Dog Slims has pool tables, a beer vending machine and bookable booths — ideal for a group that wants fun without a fixed activity.

What bars with entertainment in Manchester are good for a date night?

For a date night with a difference, Flight Club sets a fun, low-pressure competitive tone, while Alcotraz delivers a genuinely memorable shared story. Treetop Adventure Golf at The Printworks is another strong pick — two indoor 18-hole courses with cocktails and pizza on site. If you'd rather lean into atmosphere over activity, Impossible on Peter Street blends theatrical entertainment with a stylish bar and restaurant setting.

Which bars with entertainment in Manchester are open late?

Several of Manchester's best entertainment bars keep the fun going well into the night. Alcotraz runs immersive sessions throughout the evening, Salt Dog Slims is a go-to late-night dive bar with pool and cocktails, and NQ64 in the Northern Quarter and on Peter Street stays open late with retro arcade games and themed cocktails. Impossible also runs late with its club space downstairs. Always check individual venue websites for current opening hours, as last entry times vary.

Are there bars with entertainment in Manchester that don't require booking?

Some venues welcome walk-ins, but Manchester's most popular entertainment bars — particularly Flight Club, Electric Shuffle and Alcotraz — are best booked in advance, especially at weekends. Salt Dog Slims and NQ64 are generally more walk-in friendly, as the entertainment (pool tables, arcade machines) doesn't require a reserved slot. If you're planning a group visit, booking ahead is almost always recommended to guarantee a lane, booth or game station.