Looking to rack ‘em up and finally settle the score on who reigns supreme at bank shots, trick plays, and cross-corners? Whether you consider yourself a seasoned cue sports wizard or you're just looking for a casual frame with a cold pint in hand, Manchester has a table waiting for you.
From Northern Quarter hideouts and sleek city-centre gaming lounges to classic neighbourhood boozers with plenty of character, the city is packed with top-tier spots to show off your skills (or at least pretend to). To enjoy a lively atmosphere charged with the energy of friendly competition, head to one of our best pubs and bars with a pool table in Manchester.
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This pool bar in Manchester is also known for their American fare of, you guessed it, sausage slathered in sauce. But it doesn't stop there... Salt Dog Slims is a cool dive joint fronting graffiti-clad walls and their very own beer vending machine, so you can skip the queues and make it back to your game in a flash.
Get ready for a dive bar-style karaoke experience at Bunny's Karaoke, where the fun never stops. With the same vibrant atmosphere as Bunny Jackson's and Junior Jackson's, you can enjoy 25p wings, free karaoke, and American beers. Plus, challenge your friends to a game of pool or book a private karaoke room for just £50.
Looking for the best place to play pool in Manchester? Wilson's Social in the Northern Quarter has you covered. With a pool table available for friendly competitions, this all-day bar and restaurant is ideal for a casual hangout with friends.
But it's not just about the games - Wilson's also offers an extensive drinks menu featuring craft beers, cocktails, and local brews, plus a delicious selection of food. Whether you're in the mood for a fun night of pool or just want to enjoy some drinks in a laid-back setting, Wilson's provides the perfect atmosphere for both.
Looking for something a little more X-rated? Head down to the super luxe adult playground of Whiskey Down for an evening of lingerie strip pool. Set in a Bruce Wayne-inspired games room, the space includes low-hanging chandeliers and cosy leather armchairs.
Most of us know that nothing goes better with beer than a game of pool, so let's get you headed to a place that provides both - and pronto. Head on down to Fallowfield where the Beer Studio not only promises tables, but also an incredible roster of pints to boot.
A pub on Princess Street, The Garratt is an alternative boozer that's frequented by students and locals alike. Ideal for when you want a game of pool, this is an affordable stomping ground with drinks that won't break the bank.
When it comes to a place to play pool, The Arch Manchester is something of a hero. Not only boasting some of the most eclectic interiors in the city, there's also premium tables, drinks deals and plenty more to keep you entertained.
Looking to take thing up a notch? Roxy Ball Room is the games bar for American pool in Manchester, alongside a brand new version of the game, which combines it with the concept of crazy golf. It's time to get your trick shots out to make it round these obstacles.
Several Manchester venues offer free or very low-cost pool. Salt Dog Slims on Bow Lane is the standout — a free pool table running seven days a week in one of the Northern Quarter's most reliably entertaining bars, with a beer vending machine, bespoke cocktails and gourmet hot dogs to keep you going between frames.
Salt Dog Slims on Bow Lane is Manchester's most beloved casual pool venue — a graffiti-clad American dive bar that has a free pool table running seven days a week, making it the go-to for a spontaneous game without the need to book or pay.
Whiskey Down in Spinningfields is Manchester's most unusual pool venue — an adult playground with a distinctly risqué edge. The pool on offer is lingerie strip pool, set in a Bruce Wayne-inspired games room with low-hanging chandeliers and cosy leather armchairs.
Salt Dog Slims on Bow Lane is the standout — a free pool table seven days a week in one of the NQ's most entertaining dive bars, with a beer vending machine, cocktails and hot dogs. Wilson's Social is a more relaxed all-day option: a neighbourhood bar and restaurant with a pool table, craft beers and cocktails, ideal for a casual afternoon or early evening game.
As a general rule, if you're planning a pool evening for a group on a Friday or Saturday, booking in advance at the activity bar venues is strongly recommended. The DesignMyNight article links to booking pages where available.
