Rooftop Bars in Manchester

Spectacular views from the 23rd floor of Manchester's landmark Beetham Tower make Cloud 23 a drinking heaven. The highest of all the cocktail bars in Manchester, this stunning rooftop bar offers Champagne and cocktails as well as a global bottled beer selection, just a short stroll away from (and 23 floors above) its neighbouring Deansgate bars. Ceiling to floor windows make the most of the impressive views across Manchester - especially on a clear day when you can see all the way to the Pennines.

Perched on top of the city's most enviable addresses, this gorgeous restaurant boasts one of the best rooftop bars in Manchester. The expansive patio, complete with large umbrellas and a fire pit, offers some of the best views and finest food in town. 

In the heart of the bustling Canal Street, G-A-Y is right next to the canal and some of the city's best party spots. Nab a place on their rooftop space for great views, a lively atmosphere and, come sundown, some of the best nights in town.

Overlooking the city centre from its Deansgate Perch, the Roof Garden Playground on top of the Great John Street Hotel is probably Manchester's best rooftop bar - and somewhat of a Manchester nightlife secret. 

The Rooftop Lounge is on top of the Great John Street Hotel, next to its sister bar Roof Garden Playground; a collection of elegant rooms looking out onto the playground with large ceiling to floor windows which make the most of the beautiful views of the city. The perfect spot to escape the chaos of the city and enjoy the relaxing hum of the streets below while enjoying their vast selection of drinks.

Situated a stone's throw from the restaurants and bars of Deansgate and Albert Square, The Terrace at The Restaurant Bar & Grill on John Dalton Street is an outdoor drinking and dining haven; a beautiful al fresco spot in the heart of the city centre at which to enjoy delicious cocktails and food. Great in any weather, the terrace boasts cosy heating and a retractable awning for whenever the inevitable Manchester weather should set in. 

It's already attracted some of Manchester's famous faces, and with a rooftop terrace like this, it's not hard to see why. The Ivy in Spinningfields is boasting one heck of a sky-high space, from the floral prints and abundance of botany, through to the inventive cocktails.

A stones throw away from Manchester Academy on Oxford Road, Big Hands is the perfect bar for a few drinks before or after a gig seeing your favourite band. It's a small venue but has a rooftop garden opening in the warmer months. This garden may not have spectacular views, being only one floor up, but is a breath of fresh air from the bars usual cramped interior.

You can really imagine that you're in a scorching Spanish city with El Gato Negro, the central tapas bar that has a retractable roof terrace, perfect on those rare sunny days.

Terrace NQ is a rustic little spot in Manchester's Northern Quarter. Framed by exposed brick walls and a distinctive stripped-back look, the venue's rooftop area kicks into life when the clouds part. Serving a range of locally sourced ales and beers, there are few better places to unwind on the weekend or decompress after a hard day of work. 

The Skylounge is the penthouse private dining area within the Doubletree at the Hilton Hotel Manchester. It takes full advantage of the beautiful views over Manchester city centre from its Piccadilly perch, perfect for a magical night under the stars.

One of the most luxurious hotels in the city harbours a secret, and that's one of the best rooftop spaces in the city. While only open to hotel guests and members, this intimate space is the ultimate location for cocktails and bubbly overlooking Manchester.