When the sunshine pops out, we're known for getting the shorts out and heading to the nearest outdoor terrace. Better yet, there are river, quay and lock views in store across a variety of locations. Check out our selection of the best waterfront bars in Manchester, from a whole street of canalside favourites to quirky cocktail bars and laid-back pubs.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 26th August 2025
Parked waterside in Salford Quays is the sleek 11 Central, a restaurant and bar that knows how to have a good time. It features a great range of cocktails, its very own gin school and a slap-up roast menu come the weekend with helpings of cauliflower cheese. There's live entertainment every week and a terrace that'll make you long for good weather all year round.
Looking for a bar that pairs canal-side views with a serious party spirit? Nell's Kampus has you covered. Perched right on the water at Kampus, this dog-friendly hangout combines lush garden surroundings with a knockout drinks list, like crisp beers on tap and their much-loved frozen margaritas. Throw in DJs, festivals, karaoke nights and some of Manchester's biggest seasonal parties, and you've got a waterside bar that's anything but sleepy.
Of course, it wouldn't be Nell's without the pizza - huge 22” New York-style pies and slices that have become legendary across the city. Just minutes from Piccadilly station, it's a slice of New York energy right on Manchester's canals.
A list of waterfront restaurants in Manchester wouldn't be complete without The Alchemist. The MediaCityUK location has expansive views across Salford Quays, alongside alchemy-inspired brunches, an international main menu and those theatrical cocktails.
A total suntrap, Dukes 92 is a gorgeous venue when the sun shines - and don't we all know it with the outdoor tables getting snapped up quickly. Watch the canal boats float along or step inside when the weather cools off for tasty deli boards and plenty of locally sourced dishes.
For some slick canalside drinking, Castlefield's Barca Bar has got you sorted with not one but two outdoor terraces. The den has a charming garden, along with an upstairs terrace - both great for soaking up the rays and working your way through a crowd-pleasing selection of beer or cocktails.
For a choice of the best outdoor bars in Manchester Spinningfields with waterside space, check out Slug and Lettuce. The terrace stretches the length of the venue, boasting River Irwell vistas, and makes a great place to settle down for bottomless brunch, affordable dinners or 2 for 1 cocktails galore.
For a cool pick of canalside pubs in Manchester, mosey over to Lock 91 to check out their great outdoor terrace - perfect for sipping cocktails and watching the world go by. Nab frozen daiquiris, lagers and more to drink.
The River Bar and Restaurant is a stunning waterside restaurant in Manchester that's overlooking the River Irwell at the wonderful 5-star Lowry Hotel. Sit inside, where you'll find slick decor with pops of colour, or go out to their terrace (the longest our city has) and soak up the sun.
Just five minutes from Salford University's main campus is The Old Pint Pot. Situated on the edge of the River Irwell to capture some stunning views, it's a thriving pick of waterside live music bars in Manchester, thanks to plenty of events through the week.
Overlooking the Rochdale Canal, Rain Bar Manchester is a lively waterfront hangout that comes alive over the summer. It gets its name from a past life, with the bar set in a former umbrella factory; now you can expect cool industrial touches, including exposed brick walls and wooden beams, alongside a multi-tiered outdoor space.
An extension of The Lowry's Theatre and Gallery, Pier Eight is the multimillion pound restaurant named after its Salford Quays address. Inspired by northern European design, you can expect a calming colour palette, trendy light fittings and relaxed, comfy seats, as well as amazing views over the water. The menu features everything from chicken breast with chorizo to spiced cauliflower steak, and you can even eat at the chef's table as well.
One of the city's most iconic canal pubs, The Wharf has got waterside sipping sorted all year round. Set in Castlefield, the venue is a treasure trove of spaces, from the large beer garden through to the higgledy-piggledy inside rooms.
Situated right by the water on Canal Street, Oscars is an LGBTQ+ friendly cabaret-themed bar, where everyone is welcome and the atmosphere is always buzzing. While their bright red interiors are the place to be for late-night drinks and dancing, their outdoor tables are perfect for a more laidback cocktail or two while enjoying waterside views.
