As one of the North West’s busiest and most vibrant cities, Manchester has a lot to offer visitors, whether they want to wander around galleries and museums during the daytime, hit the clubs and dance until dawn, or a bit of both. As one of the biggest cities in the country, Manchester has become a hugely popular destination for visitors from elsewhere in the UK and all over the world.
With so much to see and do, it can be a bit overwhelming to see everything that you might want to, but a little careful research should point you towards the things that you will enjoy the most. Although it has plenty to offer visitors that want to learn about the area’s history, it has a particular appeal to those that want to sample some of its iconic nightlife.
There are some well-known spots that have earned a reputation as places where the party never stops and these have paved the way for a thriving scene that supports a wide variety of new clubs and bars.
The most popular music venues
Manchester’s music scene is famous all over the world for having produced some of the most high-profile artists and it continues to offer music fans a choice of amazing nights out. Some of the most popular venues include:
Deansgate Locks – As one of the most renowned spots in the city, Deansgate Locks is home to some of the hottest spots on the scene, including Baa Bar, Revolution and the Comedy Store. Located on the banks of the canal, there is something for anyone here, so it’s a great place for anyone who wants to make a base for the night and not have to travel too far once they are out.
Whether you want to have a laugh with some friends or dance the night away to the hottest DJs with a choice of cocktails, Deansgate Locks has something for everyone.
The O2 Ritz – This ex-ballroom has been hosting some of Manchester’s most popular musical events since the 1920s. Now a Grade II Listed building, it maintains the original glamour and appeal that made it a popular destination 100 years ago, and a number of the UK’s top acts have played there since its doors first opened, including:
- The Beatles
- Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel
- The Smiths
- Snow Patrol
- REM
- Arctic Monkeys
- Adam Ant
- The Damned
From live bands to pumping club nights, it’s always worth checking the listings for this iconic venue to see what’s on offer.
Club Liv – As one of the most exclusive nightclubs in Manchester, this ever-popular spot features classic marble décor combined with modern features such as LED walls and a raised DJ booth, providing the ideal backdrop for a truly amazing night out. The rooftop terrace is the best place to head for cocktails in the summer months and offers spectacular views over the city.
Dining Out
If you prefer to spend your evenings in a slightly more sedate manner, then Manchester has plenty of incredible restaurants serving food from all over the world. Whether you want to expand your horizons with something new or find the perfect burger, there are plenty of places to give your tastebuds a treat:
OSMA – Combining the cuisines of two distinctly different areas – Oslo and Manchester – this fusion restaurant delivers dishes to die for in a welcoming atmosphere. Their lunches are traditional with a twist, featuring open sandwiches made with fresh, local ingredients.
Dinner features sharing plates designed to give guests a taste of their unique culinary combinations, and their Sunday Roasts have earned them a reputation for serving the best roast potatoes in town.
Mana – As the first restaurant in Manchester to have a Michelin Star since 1977, this avant-garde fine-dining establishment has an open kitchen to allow guests to see exactly how they work their magic. The menu features everything from reindeer moss to broths made from nutritional yeast and diners can enjoy a tasting menu of ‘hyper seasonal’ dishes that offer the chance to taste some truly unique flavour combinations.
Other entertainment
A night out in Manchester is the perfect choice for anyone who enjoys the glamour and excitement of a casino and there are plenty to choose from.
Manchester235 Casino – Housed in a former warehouse in the heart of Manchester’s city centre, this casino has state-of-the-art gaming rooms that allow guests to play a variety of different games in style. The dedicated poker room on the ground level is complemented by the bar area on the second floor where weekend entertainment makes for a great night out.
Grosvenor Casino – As well as offering the full range of games you would expect from a casino, the Grosvenor is also home to a popular restaurant, a bar with a truly buzzing atmosphere and a lounge where regular entertainment draws crowds from all over the city.
Whatever you are looking for, a night out in Manchester can certainly provide, but for those that cannot join in with the live scene, there are other options. You can enjoy all the fun of a live casino online, so you don’t have to miss out on your favourite games and you can still pit your wits against other players from the comfort of your own home.
If you really want to recreate the excitement of going out on the town, you can order in from your favourite restaurant, mix up some cocktails and give yourself the night you deserve without having to leave your living room.
