The Best Pubs in Manchester 2026

This iconic Manchester pub is instantly recognizable by its distinctive green-tiled exterior. Dating back to the early 19th century, “The Pev” stands as the only detached pub in Manchester city center. Inside, you’ll discover original woodwork, plush seating, etched mirrors, and that unmistakable atmosphere that only comes with genuine history.

The pub takes its name from a stagecoach that once ran between Manchester and London. Today, it’s renowned for pouring one of the city’s finest pints of Guinness and is run by Manchester’s longest-serving landlady. The interior features original wooden benches, stained glass, and traditional pub bells.

Address: 127 Chepstow Street, Manchester M1 5JQ

Known for: Exceptional Guinness, historic interior, unique architecture

Standing defiant since the early 19th century, The Britons Protection has remained unchanged while Manchester has transformed around it. This Grade II listed establishment features multiple rooms with real fires, intricate wood paneling, and a remarkable tiled corridor commemorating the Peterloo Massacre – a significant event in Manchester’s political history.

The pub boasts one of the most impressive whiskey collections in the country, with over 300 varieties to sample. Despite its proximity to the modern Bridgewater Hall, stepping inside feels like traveling back in time to a Manchester of centuries past.

Address: 50 Great Bridgewater Street, Manchester M1 5LE

Known for: Extensive whiskey selection, historical significance, traditional atmosphere

This Grade II-listed beauty on Rochdale Road is a masterclass in Victorian pub architecture. The Marble Arch is famous for its sloped mosaic floor, ornate ceilings, and spectacular tiled walls. As the original home of Marble Brewery, it played a pivotal role in Manchester’s craft beer renaissance.

Beyond its architectural splendor, The Marble Arch offers an exceptional range of house-brewed beers alongside a menu of hearty, locally-sourced food. The roaring fireplace and traditional pub atmosphere make it a perfect retreat in any weather.

Address: 73 Rochdale Road, Manchester M4 4HY

Known for: House-brewed craft beers, spectacular Victorian interior, quality food

Right in the heart of the Northern Quarter sits a pub that feels like it’s been there forever—because it basically has. The Castle Hotel dates back to the 18th century, though its eye-catching glazed tile exterior was added in 1904 when Kay’s Atlas Brewery purchased the site.

Inside, you’ll find wood-panelled snugs, lovingly poured pints, and a backroom that hosts some of Manchester’s best live music. The jukebox is legendary, the Guinness is excellent, and the low-lit corners are perfect for long conversations that stretch into the night.

Address: 66 Oldham Street, Manchester M4 1LE

Known for: Live music venue, historic tiled exterior, excellent atmosphere

For the dedicated beer enthusiast, Port Street Beer House is a must-visit destination in Manchester. This Northern Quarter favorite sits somewhere between a traditional pub and a modern bar, offering one of the city’s most impressive selections of craft beers from around the world.

With constantly rotating taps, an extensive bottle collection, and knowledgeable staff who can guide you through your beer journey, Port Street has established itself as a cornerstone of Manchester’s craft beer scene. The comfortable traditional touches and relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for both casual drinks and serious beer exploration.

Address: 39-41 Port Street, Manchester M1 2EQ

Known for: Exceptional craft beer selection, knowledgeable staff, relaxed atmosphere

Often described as Manchester’s most beautiful pub, The Crown and Kettle is a landmark Gothic building on the corner of Oldham Road and Great Ancoats Street. Dating from 1734, its most spectacular feature is the ornate plaster ceiling with enormous pendants that once supported grand chandeliers.

After being closed for over a decade, the pub reopened in 2005 and was refurbished again in 2020. Despite these updates, it maintains its historic character while offering an excellent selection of real ales and craft beers. The pub’s Gothic architecture creates a unique atmosphere that’s both grand and welcoming.

Address: 2 Oldham Road, Manchester M4 5FE

Known for: Spectacular Gothic architecture, excellent beer selection, historic character

How small can a bar be before it stops being functional? The Circus Tavern pushes that limit. Frequently cited as having the smallest bar in Europe (emphasis on the bar, not the whole pub), this Portland Street classic is tiny in size but massive in character.

Dating back to the 19th century, this former weaver’s cottage features narrow hallways, decades-old memorabilia (much of it Manchester United-related), and an always-friendly crowd. Despite its compact dimensions, The Circus Tavern delivers an outsized pub experience that’s truly unique in Manchester.

Address: 86 Portland Street, Manchester M1 4GX

Known for: Claiming Europe’s smallest bar, Manchester United memorabilia, intimate atmosphere

Founded in 1867 by Thomas Studd, this Manchester institution announces itself on Cross Street with an exuberantly decorated façade in buff-colored terracotta and red brick. The narrow frontage gives way to a long, tiled dining room that perfectly captures the atmosphere of Victorian Manchester.

While technically a restaurant as much as a pub, Mr Thomas’s Chop House deserves its place on this list for its historic significance and exceptional British food. The green and cream tiled interior creates an authentic turn-of-the-century atmosphere, while the menu specializes in traditional hearty fare – steaks, chops, and pies – executed with modern finesse.

Address: 52 Cross Street, Manchester M2 7AR

Known for: Victorian tiled interior, exceptional British food, historic atmosphere

The Old Wellington holds the distinction of being Manchester’s oldest building, dating back to 1552. Originally a draper’s shop and merchant’s house, it became a pub in 1830. What makes its story even more remarkable is that in 1998, the entire building was carefully moved 100 meters from its original location as part of the city’s post-IRA bomb redevelopment.

Today, this timber-framed Tudor building sits in a raised position near Manchester Cathedral, offering a striking contrast to the modern glass structures surrounding it. Inside, low beams and uneven floors speak to its age, while the menu offers traditional pub fare and a good selection of real ales.

Address: 4 Cathedral Gates, Manchester M3 1SW

Known for: Being Manchester’s oldest building, Tudor architecture, historical significance

Bridging the Northern Quarter and Ancoats, this modern-but-classic hybrid offers comfortable seating, traditional pub games, and some of the best beer in walking distance – much of it brewed just up the road at Blackjack Brewery, who reopened the pub in 2015.

The Smithfield Market Tavern strikes a perfect balance between honoring pub traditions and embracing modern craft beer culture. Its location near both the Mackie Mayor food market and the Band on the Wall music venue makes it an ideal spot to begin or end a night exploring Manchester’s cultural offerings.

Address: 37 Swan Street, Manchester M4 5JZ

Known for: Blackjack Brewery beers, traditional pub games, relaxed atmosphere

A short walk from the Northern Quarter but far from the crowds, The Angel is the kind of place that quietly becomes your favorite. Located on Rochdale Road in the developing NOMA area, this traditional pub was there long before the property marketers arrived with their NYC-style rebranding.

The Angel doesn’t shout about itself – there are no gimmicks, just great beer, understated style, and an independent spirit that sets it apart. Whether you’re after a solo pint with a book or a catch-up with friends in a corner booth, it somehow always feels like the right choice.

Address: 6 Angel Street, Manchester M4 4BQ

Known for: Unpretentious atmosphere, quality real ales, genuine local character

Down a few steps and into a cavernous space packed with music fans, beer lovers, and character. The Salisbury is a legend for those who know – a solid red-brick pub that has sat on a cobbled street in the shadow of Oxford Road Station since the late 19th century.

Today, The Salisbury functions as Manchester’s premier rock pub, with walls adorned with pictures of AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, and other rock legends. Despite this theme, it’s an easygoing place with enough nooks and crannies to hide away in. Their in-house pizza is surprisingly excellent, making it a perfect spot for both food and drinks before or after gigs at nearby venues.

Address: 2 Wakefield Street, Manchester M1 5NE

Known for: Rock music theme, pre/post-gig crowds, quality pizza, historic building

After standing empty for almost 20 years, The Black Friar reopened in 2021 following extensive renovation. Now functioning as both a traditional pub and a modern British restaurant, it offers two distinct experiences under one roof. The pub section maintains a classic atmosphere with quality ales, while the restaurant serves sophisticated dishes that have earned critical acclaim.

Chef Ben Chaplin creates seasonal menus using locally sourced ingredients, with standout dishes including Cheshire beef wellington and pan-roasted cod with brown shrimp butter. The Black Friar represents the evolution of Manchester’s pub scene, honoring traditions while embracing contemporary dining standards.

Address: 41-43 Blackfriars Road, Salford M3 7DB

Known for: High-quality modern British cuisine, beautiful restoration, dual pub/restaurant concept

This beautifully restored Victorian pub in Ancoats has earned a place in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list. While it has recently returned to its roots as a traditional pub, the Edinburgh Castle maintains high standards across both its drink and food offerings.

The menu changes regularly but focuses on British classics executed with finesse. The Sunday roasts are particularly renowned, often selling out well in advance. With its combination of historic character, quality ales, and exceptional food, the Edinburgh Castle exemplifies the best of Manchester’s modern pub scene.

Address: 17-19 Blossom Street, Ancoats, Manchester M4 5AW

Known for: Award-winning gastropub food, excellent Sunday roasts, beautiful restoration

While already mentioned for its architectural splendor and house-brewed beers, The Marble Arch deserves a second mention for its outstanding food. The pub’s kitchen has developed a reputation for serving some of Manchester’s finest pub food, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes elevated through careful preparation.

The Sunday roast at The Marble Arch is legendary, featuring perfectly cooked meats, crispy roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, and rich gravy. The regular menu includes pub classics alongside more innovative dishes, all complementing the excellent beer selection perfectly.

Address: 73 Rochdale Road, Manchester M4 4HY

Known for: Outstanding Sunday roasts, locally sourced ingredients, perfect beer pairings