The Northern in Manchester’s Northern Quarter has seen a real return of fortune recently. Sitting on the site of the infamous King's Pub, it’s now a friendly, trendy place of proper character, with great atmosphere, good beer, and a whole host of eclectic events - as is only expected in this part of town. There are live bands and DJs, pub quizzes and cabaret, poetry and gallery events, and a dedicated smoking area - but it still manages to tread the line between boho chic and down-to-earth warmth perfectly.

The entrance is down the side of a florists, while the interior is made up of two rooms around a central wooden bar which serves real ales, bottled beers and basic light bites (including homemade pizza) throughout the day and night. At lunchtime expect the office crowd and Northern Quarter regulars, then when the sun goes down, groups of young professionals kick back, hang out and relax to the soundtrack of laid-back Motown and Northern soul. The Northern is the Northern Quarter in a nutshell - so crack this nut and embrace the up-for-it ambience and all-round bonhomie!