A Northern Quarter staple – the kind of place where you can hang out day or night, whether it’s for food, drinks, or dancing.
The Northern Quarter, has been a favourite of ours for years. While I guess could you could say now, that Manchester’s bohemian quarter is fast being discovered by many. What I love is that this part of Manchester still offers plenty of cool, independent bars which haven’t yet been tinged by the dreaded ‘mainstream’ you will find in other areas and Cities.
Every city has that one cool cornerstone that becomes a haven for weird and wonderful ventures. London has Shoreditch, well – Manchester boasts this cool area. Bursting with trendy types, creative minds, all ages – it has something for everyone. To help you find your next favourite spot, we’ve rounded up the best and quirky bars in the Northern Quarter.
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10 Bars To Visit In The Northern Quarter Manchester
1. Cottonopolis
Our number one! Sleek and sophisticated, a vibe like no other bar in the NQ. Cottonopolis boasts cool and quirky interiors that are the perfect location for a cocktail. Don’t forget to look up as you walk in. It’s also a great place to enjoy a spot of pan-Asian cuisine. And it’s right around the corner from our 2nd favourite spot…
2. Tariff & Dale
Probably the first place in the NQ we associate with enjoying a day eating and drinking. Industrial in style, awesome artwork with a converted lift as a seating area. And the only reason it’s not our number one is because Cottonopolis exists! The pizza is good, the music and cocktails are awesome and if you’re lucky you’ll visit when there’s a DJ on. We used to end the night here, one last cocktail and a slice of pizza – more recently it’s one of the first spots we visit.
3. Cain and Grain
A favourite of Mr H’s. In the thick of the NQ, surrounded by incredible artwork, split over three different floors although our favourite is the ground floor. Cain and Grain with it’s New York style, tasty food and relaxed vibe. Perhaps lacking in choice of drinks for me but often this is where I’ll enjoy a craft beer as they have a good selection.
4. Terrace NQ
Another favourite, it’s up there and always for us, a must visit. Terrace NQ has something. It’s located on Thomas Street, one of my favourite streets in the Northern Quarter. On warmer days ‘the roof terrace’ is a great spot. Otherwise I enjoy sitting in the window and watching the crowds pass by. The cocktails never disappoint, neither does the service. Music is good, Seriously love this bar.
5. Flok
A great spot in the centre of the Northern Quarter, one the crowds Flok too! Located in Stevenson Square with it’s bright yellow signage. When the sun is shining it’s the perfect outside spot enjoyed with an Aperol Spritz, and when its a little cooler you will love the decor inside. Cosy Vintage Chic!
6. Black Dog Ballroom
The perfect mid way point of a day or evening spent in the Northern Quarter. If you’re anything like us, a break in between drinking with a game of pool is a must do activity. We also love playing darts which you can find deeper into the City Centre. We’ve always found it to be busy so booking is essential as there are only 4 tables. Just a shame it only opens at 5pm!
7. Trof
It’s been a favourite for years. Trof is located in the heart of the NQ, split over 3 floors, the food is good. The bar is quirky in design and layout. I always associate it with a really warm and cosy feeling, a bar I love to frequent during Winter. It is sought after so if you see a table, grab it!
8. Mackie Mayor
It’s on the outskirts of the Northern Quarter but I had to squeeze this one in. Such a great space to meet with a group of friends. A food hall in simple terms, located in an industrial building of grandeur and flare. We have enjoyed breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as just drinks. It’s open plan, family style dining which I guess you could say, is the modern way of spending time together. The eclectic food places are independents, highly rated – it’s a must visit!
9. The Pen and Pencil
The Pen and Pencil makes for a great early evening drinking spot, serving up cocktails, beer, champagne and even food. The bar is a wonderful spot for getting in the mood as you start your night out in the NQ, with regular DJ nights playing the best funk, soul, disco, house – you name it. Nearby you’ll find Cottonopolis and Tarrif & Dale.
10. Ducie Street Warehouse
We first stumbled across this place last October when we used it as our base for a half term October adventure with George. The warehouse is very cool. I love that this space has something for everyone. Whether it’s catching up with friends or enjoying a cocktail at the bar, it has a great atmosphere. You’ll find DJ’s, a cinema, a coffee shop and the coolest rooms to stay in.
10 Bars To Visit In The Northern Quarter Manchester
Would you add any to the list? If you’d like to read more about our adventures in the Northern Quarter read on here.
I’m Kerri-Ann or KA as my friends call me, always found with a cup of coffee in one hand and my camera in the other. I have a huge passion for photography, fitness, fashion and family travel. I started this blog in 2014. It began as my creative outlet after becoming a mummy to our little boy George Archie. I started out blogging about parenting and over the years it has evolved into a blog that covers lifestyle, fashion, family and travel. Today TheKAEdit is ultimately a life and style blog. Thank you for reading x x
