Winter Bars in Manchester

If you're looking for a sleek and contemporary winter space, look no further than The Refinery. Promising festive-themed cocktails in alpine-inspired interiors, head here at the weekend for sophisticated drinks before taking to the tiles in Manchester city centre.

The basement bar of The Foundry Project screams speakeasy vibes with low-lit booths and velvet furnishings. Descend down the stairs for an evening of dancing, drinking and debauchery - a world away from the cold and wet Manchester streets outside.

Not only is Dirty Martini the perfect pick for after-work drinks, date nights and Christmas parties, but the cocktail favourite has got a special seasonal menu that you just won't be able to resist.

The tables at Albert Schloss have specially created 'press for prosecco' buttons to ensure your glass never runs dry. Enjoy some Bavarian fun with a side of bratwurst at this iconic Manchester spot, all from the comfort of one of their roomy booths.

Sam's Chop House always offers a warming and friendly welcome (especially the old fella who seems to always be at the bar). Decked out in Christmas decorations with a festive-themed menu to match, this place is the perfect spot for a bite to eat, offering hearty classics such as steak and kidney pudding and Sam's famous corned beef hash.

Never one to do things by halves, The Ivy Spinningfields is shaking things up on the roof garden. Think North Pole vs South Pole; with wintry woodland decor, seasonal dishes and a dedicated cocktail menu courtesy of Champagne connoisseurs Veuve Clicquot.

Part of Manchester's well-loved Victorian Chop House Company, this old school boozer is jam-packed with cosy nooks and crannies to huddle yourself in with a glass of something warm. On Sundays, this place is heaving with regulars and visitors to the city alike, all keen to sample the legendary Sunday Lunch menu and grab a spot next to the open fire.

One of Manchester's highest bars, 20 Stories is the perfect spot to survey the twinkly twilight city from above. This winter, their infamous igloos will be back - the perfect spot for you and your gang to sip of mulled wine underneath cosy blankets, or to try one of the stunning contemporary dishes from the grill. 

Bock Bière Café has become something of an institution for beer-loving Mancunians in recent years. Specialising in Belgian breweries specifically, the bar is home to 10 different beers on tap, and 50 types of bottles, all to be enjoyed along side a menu of continental sharing plates. 

This Spinningfields Kentish style pub comes into its own in the winter period, boasting its very own pop-up tipi. Lit with twinkly lights, decked out with fur throws and warmed with an open fire, The Oast House is one of Manchester's most atmospheric venues. 

The Wharf in Castlefield is one of the cosiest bars in all of Manchester, with a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere that comes from the picturesque location alongside the tree-lined canal basin. Bursting with snug nooks, this place is perfect for a romantic waterside date, or a relaxed night out listening to acoustic live music.