Manchester's Best Craft Beer Bars

This alcoholic beverage is always making a ripple across hospitality, courtesy of the unique cans, kegs and pints whipped up by small, independent companies or industry giants. To keep you hoppy? Check out our guide to the best pubs, breweries and bars for craft beer in Manchester.

Last edited by Marcus Sanigar

Last updated on 28th October 2025




Wilson's Social

Beer and a burger and 2 other offers

Wilson's Social is a haven for craft beer lovers in Manchester. With over 18 beer taps featuring a fantastic selection of local craft beers, this bar in the Northern Quarter is a go-to for anyone who appreciates a good brew.

Whether you're after something from Manchester's own breweries or a fresh, exciting pint from elsewhere, Wilson's has it covered. Combine this with a laid-back atmosphere, tasty bar bites, and regular events like live music and quiz nights, and it's clear why Wilson's is one of the best craft beer bars in Manchester.

BrewDog Outpost Manchester

FREE BDAY DRINKS and 2 other offers

Located on Oxford Road is BrewDog Outpost Manchester, one of its many bars across the city including Peter Street and Doghouse. It's the perfect haunt to hit up for craft beer enthusiasts, as it offers a beer school where you can learn more about the process behind its signature sips, as well as the art of food pairings. You'll be able to enjoy on-off creations here too, from its onsite microbrewery. 

11 Central

Two for £14 on Cocktails (Mon-Thurs 4-7pm, Friday 6pm-7pm)

If you're looking to sip some seriously good craft beers, then you're going to want to hit up 11 Central. Overlooking the waterfront, this special joint is in a league of its own, with a menu featuring modern British cuisine and a bar whipping up bespoke cocktails along with a pint of the finest. Come for one and stay for the live entertainment or gin school.

Stables Tavern

Stables Tavern in Manchester's St John's blends history and charm inside the original Rovers Return set from Coronation Street. Enjoy local pints, homemade sausage rolls, and Great North Pie Co. pies.

With live music Thursday–Sunday and a dog-friendly vibe, it's your new favourite for relaxed craft beer and comfort food.

The Gasworks Brew Bar

Built on the site of the old Gaythorn Gas Works, The Gasworks Brew Bar is a prime spot for craft beer right in the heart of the city. Brought to you by the team behind The Dockyard pubs, this industrial space features rustic interiors with a modern twist.

The in-house brewery is slinging out some of the freshest pints around, served directly from tank to tap. Whether you're playing shuffleboard or just coming along for a few drinks, you can also enjoy tasty food from Thief Street - think Korean barbecue waffle fries, chicken katsu curry or juicy burgers.

The Good Rebel

Happy Hour 2 for £14 Cocktails and 1 other offer

With artwork-adorned walls, bench seats and the warm glow of neon bar signs, The Good Rebel is the perfect spot for a casual pint or two of cracking craft beer.

There's a strong line-up of local staples and changing guests on draft, as well as fridges packed with an eclectic mix of pales, stouts, ciders, lagers and more. Ale soakers come in the form crisps, nuts and classic bar snacks.

Studio Bar

Formerly The Beer Studio, could you expect anything less than great drinks from here? Snagging their name as one of the best places to drink craft beer in Manchester, this charming favourite is churning out beloved and favoured names, alongside independent bottles. 

Northern Monk Refectory MCR

Offering some of the most popular beer in Manchester is Northern Monk Refectory, who made their way down to the city from Leeds. These craft pints are second-to-none, and the rotating kitchen residencies have offered everything from huge wedges of lasagne to succulent chicken and waffles.

Bundobust

The home of craft beer and food in Manchester, Bundobust is dishing out Indian veggie burgers, paneer tikka and egg burjhis. But drinks don't go unnoticed either, with a cracking selection of pints for all palates. We're talking cask ales, chai cider and rotational keg lines pouring different kinds of brews.

Beatnikz

Ever tried a stroopwafel stout? How about a soft serve frozen pint? This Northern Quarter haunt is anything but ordinary. Check out Beatnikz Brewery to soak up an unusual selection of drinks in the right heart of Manchester.