Top 22 Pubs In Manchester

There's definitely no shortage of places to grab a drink in our city. But if you're looking to find those real gems, we're here to lend a helping hand and sift through all the options for you. Spend less time reading and more time drinking with our guide to the top 22 Manchester pubs; from dog-friendly boozers to craft beer favourites and gastropub hangouts.

Last edited by Lauren Cole

Last updated on 23rd July 2024




The Briton's Protection

No Manchester pub crawl of the city's best boozers would be complete without a trip to The Briton's Protection - a stalwart that's stood strong on Great Bridgewater Street near the south end of Deansgate since 1806. Its whisky collection is over 300-strong, ranging from rare Scotch to Japanese bottles, while red and dark wood interiors make up the traditional look. Better yet? There are even taps in the beer garden.

BrewDog Manchester

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While it leans slightly more into craft beer bar than traditional pub, BrewDog Manchester is a more contemporary pick for getting your fix of pints. Nestled on Peter Street, the dog-friendly spot touts a huge range of world beers, alongside their own Hazy Jane New England IPA, grapefruit-infused beers, classic Lost lagers and more. Learn more about their brewing process across some of your favourites at beer school, grab amazing burgers or head to their sister hotel for pints on their rooftop

The Old Wellington

Need traditional pubs in Manchester city centre? Tucked away in Shambles Square near the Cathedral is The Old Wellington. But how can a square only built in 1999 house a half-timber building that's been standing since 1552? The Grade II-listed venue - the last Tudor building of its kind in Manchester - was dismantled and rebuilt in its new location after the 1996 Manchester bombings. Amazing, eh?  Today, it's home to Nicholson's beer and grub, from traditional fish and chips to their famous pies and Sunday roasts. When the sun is shining, the south-facing seating out the front is always vibrant.

Peveril of the Peak

Making the list of best old pubs in Manchester is a place affectionately known as The Pev. With a traditional tiled exterior and wooden bench seating complete with patterned cushions inside, this Grade II-listed building from the 1920s is the ideal place to nurse a cold pint or go for a game of pool. The jukebox is sure to swallow up your coins, while there's a few picnic benches outside for sunnier days too.

The Castle Hotel

A guide to Manchester city centre pubs wouldn't be complete without The Castle Hotel. Instantly recognisable by its red tiled exterior, this NQ staple has a long history dating all the way back to 1776 and a live music performance space too - plus ten cask ales on tap, so you get plenty of choice from the good stuff.

The Wharf

Perched just seconds from Bridgewater Canal and part of the beating heart of Castlefield, The Wharf is a pub that's got a whole lot of character. Head here for cosy corners or quiet nooks filled with fish 'n' chips, buttermilk chicken burgers and a massive selection of cask ales, malts and wines - plus an amazing terrace out the front for basking in the sun.

Mulligans

After Irish pubs in Manchester? Check out Mulligans. Find this old school spot just off Deansgate, delving out the best pints of Guinness this side of the Irish sea and the traditional music to match, alongside plenty of screenings of the footie or races.

The Grey Horse

Topping off our list of the best cheap pubs in Manchester is The Grey Horse - a traditional location dedicated to keeping your drinks affordable while delivering a classic experience. Just a short stroll away from Piccadilly Gardens, it's a lovely example of what a typical pub should be. Expect Hyde Brewery's beers, alongside other pints, cocktail pitchers and wine.

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is a once abandoned Victorian pub that's been brought back to life. Downstairs is a traditional boozer, while upstairs leans towards restaurant dining, making it home some of the best pub food in Manchester city centre - including a famous posh chip butty filled with beef tartare. But that also means Sunday roasts and set menus, offered up with beers and a generous selection of whiskey.