Student Life

Nightlife in Manchester

Manchester at nighttime

Manchester shot to prominence as the clubbing capital of Europe when the iconic Hacienda captivated revellers who would travel to the city from far and wide to party there until the early hours.

The Hacienda may be gone, but the current crop of clubs are just as busy and Manchester nightlife has never looked better! Countless pubs and bars also ensure no two nights out are ever the same.

If sampling local brews in old pubs or taking in a rave at a local warehouse sounds more up your street, Manchester has got those bases covered too!

Packed to the brim with underground clubs, quirky bars and themed pubs, the Northern Quarter is seen as Manchester’s trendy, bohemian destination. You will find pubs that have been there for many years, as well as new bars that have popped up in recent months.

These repurposed railway storage warehouses offer up a vast selection of high-class clubs and bars, where you can dance until the early hours or take in a relaxing drink next to the Rochdale Canal. Be sure to give yourself a giggle at The Comedy Club, enjoy a BBQ at Dukes 92, or try out gins from across the globe at Atlas Bar.

Spinningfields is the perfect choice if you have set your heart on an upmarket night out. Sample an array of tasty cocktails, catch a late film, or even try your hand at ice-skating when winter comes around. There is also the chance to indulge in a bit of celebrity spotting at Managerie, or take in the stunning sights from Cloud 23 at The Hilton.

Revered for its commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and yearly Pride celebrations, Manchester is the place to party, and where better than Canal Street. Lively bars and exciting clubs at every turn, diversity and individuality isn’t just welcomed, it is encouraged and celebrated. Check out the iconic G-A-Y, the maze rooms at Via, and discount beverages at EVA!

For a night of well-known bars and clubs like Hard Rock Café, Bierkeller and Wetherspoon, look no further than The Printworks. Across the road, Corn Exchange provides an eclectic selection of eateries and places to drink, while the famous Sinclair’s Oyster Bar is a Manchester mainstay that demands your attention!

Manchester just wouldn’t be the same without those memorable student nights. Venue, Sound Control, 5th Avenue, 42’s, and The Deaf Institute are tailor-made for such occasions, with cheap drinks and buzzing dance floors. Be sure to also try out the Ritz Theatre, originally a 1920s dancehall.

Nightlife isn’t just confined to the city centre, with many students often choosing to go out in the surrounding areas. Fallowfield is a hotbed of bars and pubs for the student population, whilst Chorlton is a great place for a quiet drink with a bohemian vibe. West Didsbury is popular amongst professionals and students alike; Volta is a great place to grab a small plate of tapas or a tempting cocktail!

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