Top Rated Nightlife in Manchester

This building has been used as a pub since at least 1816 and is listed as being of special historical and architectural interest, which along with its location in the center of the Northern Quarter makes it a popular stopping-off point. It is the only remaining Stockport based Robinson's Brewery in the city center outlet and attracts a lively and unpretentious clientele of all ages, including musicians and artists. There is a back-room pool table and regular live music from some of Manchester's best underground bands.

Popular with media types, Atlas was one of the first designer café bars in Manchester. It is spacious with a modern chic feel accentuated by simple metal tables and minimalist turquoise seating. There is a pleasant heated beer garden area at the back, while the large front windows afford a splendid view down Deansgate. Atlas Bar specializes in gin, so make sure to give that a try.

One of the first locations in the region to have its own micro-brewery, the place once made the locally renowned Log 35, Log 38 and 42. This is an extremely popular Victorian pub with plenty of mahogany and gas lighting to give it that old-fashioned ambiance. A selection of sandwiches and bar snacks are available at lunchtimes, and the service is quick and friendly too. Due to its close proximity to BBC North there is even the possibility of bumping into a local celebrity.

It's the punters, as much as anything else, who give VIA (a major focal point in the Gay Village) its character. Of course, the rich wood paneling and opulent neo-Gothic surroundings help, but this merely serves to reflect the exotic splendor of the clientele. This place is extraordinarily busy at weekends and during the summer months. Boddingtons and Stella Artois are served on draft along with the usual range of continental bottled beers and spirits.

Located in the prime location of Northern Quarter, the Mint Lounge is popular for the club nights it hosts. One of the coolest places to hang out in the city, the lounge is also a venue for live music acts and concerts. Well-known artists and bands like Norman Jay, Friendly Fires, Unabombers and Danny Krivit have played their magic here. Drinks are a little on the pricier side, but the entertainment, atmosphere and staff make up for it. The lounge is also available on hire for events and can accommodate up to 500 people.

A suburban offshoot of the renowned Marble Arch brewpub in the center of Manchester, this hugely popular and traditionally styled pub offers the full range of Marble beers along with a well chosen selection of real ales from around the UK. Once past the distinctive chocolate brown and cream exterior, you enter a classic place for enjoying a serious drinking session. It is friendly, boisterous, always full and with long wooden tables and benches that encourage conversation. Food is limited to organic, filled rolls and light snacks served from lunchtime to early evening.