Beer Gardens in Manchester

The perfect spot for an al fresco cocktail (or three) The Lawn Club in Spinningfields is decked out with private seating pods, pretty festoon lighting and plenty of green space adorned with deck chairs. Head here for Friday night drinks, tasty nibbles and table service throughout.

Perfect for that all-important bottle of summer wine, not only is The Refinery churning out the best in gastro fare and cool interiors, but its terrace in Spinningfields is also the ultimate drinking companion as the weather starts to warm up.

The exclusive Australasia has an even more exclusive beer garden, accessed via a secluded staircase. Expect a tropical garden serving up cocktails, exquisite decor and Asian bites at sister site Sunset.

From its smattering of dining tables and second-floor terrace dining to its south-facing patio, if there's one top-notch sun trap in Manchester, it would have to be Dukes 92. Whether you're plucking over a Pimm's or enjoying a little dining, do it in sun-soaked style.

With a gorgeous outdoor terrace seating overlooking the locks, Lock 91 is the perfect place for a spot of sunshine drinking. Kick back after work with colleagues or unwind with a cocktail and watch the world go by at this beautiful Manchester bar.

As well as a cosy pub interior and large sun terrace overlooking the picturesque waterways and canal boats of the Castlefield Basin, The Wharf boasts plenty of outdoor seating, a barbecue serving up tasty grilled burgers and sandwiches. Did we mention there's even a fountain for a little splash should the heat get too much?

Not only is this hotel home to a slick restaurant and gorgeous rooms, but also a leafy terrace. Whether you're sipping on fine wines and cocktails or soaking up some sun with a tasty Sunday roast, The Dakota Grill is a great choice for alfresco drinking and dining in Manchester.

When looking for the best beer gardens in Manchester, remember to aim high: 20 Stories high, to be exact. The sky-high restaurant has a terrace bar to die for; think greenery, BBQs, fire-pits and an amazing view, all while you feast on casual brasserie dishes and drink cocktails.

While there's only a small smattering of tables, the beer garden sitting pert outside of Dockyard in Salford Quays is still a charmer. From its rustic benches and blossom trees to a cracking collection of craft beers and pub grub, getting outside for your Vitamin D dosing is a must. 

Live the lush life by the river this summer, as Rain Bar provides a neat dose of water-side boozing. From its split level beer garden and charming plot across the river to its friendly drinks prices and pub charm, this watering hole provides a proper dose of vitamin D once the sun starts to shine.

Located on John Dalton Street, The Restaurant Bar and Grill boasts a beautiful roof terrace with its own cocktail bar, comfortable booth seating, outdoor heaters and a retractable roof should that inevitable weather kick in.

You can't talk about beer gardens without dropping a mention of Sinclair's Oyster Bar. Dating back to 1720, it's one of the most popular hotspots in the city, boasting an excellent selection of beers, ciders, and hearty food (including oysters, of course).

On top of the Great John Street Hotel, this bright and breezy beauty is one of Manchester's better kept secrets. When it's not hired out for private events, nab a space on this serene patch for classy cocktails and killer views.

It may be tucked away in Chorlton, but that doesn't stop The Beagle from having great garden game. Alongside a terrace space to enjoy their craft pints and hardy British dishes, there's a garden with painted murals, quirky furniture and fun aplenty.