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Written by Luke Bull - 09 October 2023


The top 7 pubs in Manchester


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Could there be a more controversial title to woo intrepid punters into a fierce debate? Everyone has a favourite pub, and truly there can be no definitive list of the best boozers – the best pubs are filled with memories of heady nights and ghosts of sessions past. With that in mind, we’ve ignored every bit of common sense and compiled our own indisputable list of Manchester’s best pubs. Forgive us.


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Sinclairs Oyster Bar Manchester Pubs 1
Sinclairs Oyster Bar Manchester Pubs 2

1. The iconic pub: Sinclair’s Oyster Bar

Manchester

Let’s get the obvious one out of the way first. Situated in the heart of Manchester, with the Arndale centre opening out onto this historic pub, Sinclair’s is as famous for its architecture as it is for its cheap pints. So it may get busy (good luck finding an outdoor seat in the summer), but we couldn’t not mention this icon of the Manchester pub scene.



The crown and kettle pub manchester 1
The crown and kettle pub manchester 2

2. The pub with the ceiling: Crown and Kettle

Manchester

Don’t be surprised if, upon wandering into this pub, the punters are staring upwards, mouths agape. The Crown and Kettle is rightly famed for its ornate ceiling, but this Ancoats treasure is so much more. Staying true to the public house spirit, The Crown and Kettle eschew booking in favour of walk-ins only.



The Eagle Inn Manchester pub 1
The Eagle Inn Manchester pub 2

3. The live-music pub: Eagle Inn

Manchester

A quality live-music pub in Manchester’s northern cousin, Salford, The Eagle Inn is a pub that forefronts environmental responsibility and community cohesion. So far so good. The interior is classic pub vibes with dark wood, bookcases and even a piano – hey, if it isn’t broke don’t fix it.



The wharf pub manchester 1
The wharf pub manchester 2

4. The waterside pub: The Wharf

Manchester

Come sun or shine, this waterfront pub pulls its weight. The Wharf may have only been built in the 90s, but it oozes old-world charm and character – the interior is firelit, wood-panelled and strewn with plush chairs to sink into. The extensive beer garden does the heavy lifting, however. When the sun shines you can bask, watching over the picturesque Bridgewater Canal whilst the buzz of Castlefield passes you by.



The Castle Hotel pub Manchester 1
The Castle Hotel Pub manchester 2

5. The cosy pub: The Castle Hotel

Manchester

Is it a bar? Is it a pub? It’s certainly not a hotel. The Castle has existed on Oldham Street under some guise or other since 1776. With history on its side, The Castle proves its pub bragging rights with a competent selection of beers and a no-nonsense interior that is cosy, comfy and snug.



The Molly House Manchester pub 1
The Molly House Manchester pub 2

6. The alternative pub: The Molly House

Manchester

Located in the heart of Manchester’s Gay Village, The Molly House is a fantastic pub grounded in the vibrant local community. Tucked away from the heady chaos of Canal Street, The Molly House provides a comforting rest-stop for those looking for a pint, a plate and a spot of good conversation.



Mother Mac's Manchester Pub 2
Mother Mac's Manchester Pub 1

7. The haunted pub: Mother Mac’s

Manchester

Adorably renamed after a former landlady, Mother Mac’s has played host to a few not so adorable scenes in its macabre past. The site of a murder-suicide spree in 1976, Mother Mac’s wears its bloody history proudly. Despite the gore, the pub offers a warm welcome to all, and this mix of murder and hospitality lets it stand out in the busy Manchester pub scene.



The best pubs in Manchester

Everyone loves a Manchester pub, and booking your own exclusive space in a pub or hiring out the entire venue is a great idea for an event. With so many great pubs near you to choose from, it can be hard to find a boozer to accommodate your private booking. We've rounded up the best in Manchester, from traditional pubs showing sports highlights on the television to multi-story pubs with colourful furniture and a roof terrace for those warm days. Have a look at all our top pubs, with private hire options near you. Alternatively, tell us exactly what you need and we'll make sure the very best Manchester pubs respond to your enquiry.

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