Modern bar area with high stools and greenery, perfect for networking events in Manchester. - Banner

Bars

Manchester is full of sports bars, cocktail bars, wine bars and rooftop bars. We've listed the best, to make venue finding for your event a breeze!

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Trending Bars Venues in Manchester

Events are fun, but venue finding isn't always.

  • Velvet Hotel, Bar & Brasserie - image
    From £500 per person80

    A cosy brasserie with a private bar, dance floor, and DJ. Ideal for intimate dining or celebrations.

  • Hilton Deansgate - image
    From £1,000 per person300

    Manchester's highest bar with plush interiors, ideal for afternoon tea, cocktails, and champagne.

  • City Centre

    Harvey Nichols

    From £1,000 per person350

    Elegant bar and brasserie with city views, ideal for wedding receptions and upscale parties.

    See venue
  • Unknown

    The Liquor Store Deansgate

    From £500 per person150

    The Liquor Store has it's Mancunian roots coursing through its veins. Bare brickwork, vintage Los Angeles signage and the best collection of spirits this side of the atlantic. We have drink packages & vouchers available as well as bar options. Buffet and nibbles packages available.

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  • Manchester

    The Pen and Pencil

    From £250 per person150

    Chic industrial bar in Manchester's Northern Quarter. Ideal for events, filming, and photoshoots.

    See venue
  • Northern Quarter

    Dive NQ

    From £100 per person60

    A lively bar in the Northern Quarter with private and public areas, ideal for various events.

    See venue
  • Manchester City Centre

    Joshua Brooks

    From £1,100 per person450

    A music venue in the heart of Manchester with 25 years of history with some of music's biggest and brightest. Joshua Brooks features two floors, a bar & a night club as well as a kitchen serving food.

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  • Northern Quarter

    Walrus

    From £250 per person250

    A stylish cocktail bar with two floors, ideal for parties, live music, and private events.

    See venue

Bars

Manchester is full of sports bars, cocktail bars, wine bars and rooftop bars. We've listed the best, to make venue finding for your event a breeze!

About Bars

### Choosing the Perfect Bar Venue in Manchester: Factors to Consider When selecting the ideal bar venue in Manchester for your event, several key factors should guide your decision to ensure the venue aligns perfectly with your objectives and audience expectations. Firstly, consider the **location** of the bar within Manchester. Areas like [Northern Quarter](https://hirespace.com/GB/Manchester/Northern-Quarter/Bars) and [Deansgate](https://hirespace.com/GB/Manchester/Deansgate/Bars) offer vibrant atmospheres that might suit more dynamic, social events, while quieter spots may be preferable for more intimate gatherings. **Capacity** is crucial; ensure the space can comfortably accommodate your guest list plus room for any additional activities you plan to host. Also, think about the **layout** of the venue — does it facilitate networking or social interaction? Is there space for presentations or entertainment? The **style and vibe** of the bar are also important. Manchester boasts a range of venues from high-end cocktail bars in [Spinningfields](https://hirespace.com/GB/Manchester/Central-Manchester/Bars) to quirky pubs in historical buildings. Choose a style that complements your event's theme and enhances attendees' experience. Don’t forget about practical considerations such as **accessibility**, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their experience without barriers. Additionally, check if potential venues have necessary **licences**, including those for alcohol and music if these elements are integral to your event. Lastly, consider what each venue offers in terms of added value — like bespoke cocktail menus or state-of-the-art AV equipment — which could make your event stand out. By carefully considering these factors, you'll find a Manchester bar that not only meets but exceeds expectations. ### Maximising Accessibility and Transport Options for Your Event Ensuring your event is accessible and well-connected can significantly enhance the experience for all attendees. When planning an event at a bar in Manchester, it's crucial to consider both physical accessibility and transport options to accommodate everyone comfortably. **Physical Accessibility:** First, verify that the venue offers step-free access or is equipped with ramps and lifts where necessary. This includes checking for accessible toilets and any other facilities that might be needed by guests with disabilities. It’s also worth asking about hearing loops or other assistive technologies if you expect attendees who might benefit from them. **Transport Links:** Manchester is renowned for its excellent public transport network. Choose a venue close to major transport hubs like [Manchester Piccadilly](https://hirespace.com/GB/Manchester/Central-Manchester/Bars) or [Victoria stations](https://hirespace.com/GB/Manchester/Northern-Quarter/Bars), which are well-served by local buses, trams (Metrolink), and trains. This not only makes it easier for local attendees but also those travelling from further afield. **Parking Facilities:** If some guests are likely to drive, consider venues that offer parking facilities or are near public car parks. The availability of parking can be a deciding factor for those weighing up attendance. By prioritising these aspects when choosing your Manchester bar venue, you ensure that all guests have smooth access and multiple options for arriving at the event, making their overall experience more enjoyable. ### Creating a Unique Atmosphere: Event Decoration and Music Choices Creating a unique atmosphere is pivotal in making your event at a Manchester bar memorable. The decoration and music choices play significant roles in setting the right mood and ensuring your guests are engaged throughout the evening. **Event Decoration:** When decorating, consider the existing aesthetics of the bar to ensure your additions complement rather than clash. For instance, if you're hosting in a venue with industrial chic decor like many found in [Manchester's Northern Quarter](https://hirespace.com/GB/Manchester/Northern-Quarter/Bars), opt for minimalist, modern decorations that echo the urban vibe. Use ambient lighting to enhance features such as exposed brickwork or metal fixtures. Alternatively, venues with a more traditional or rustic feel might benefit from warm fairy lights and vintage decor elements. **Music Choices:** Music sets the tone of any event. In Manchester, known for its rich musical heritage, tapping into local talent can add an authentic touch. Consider hiring local bands or DJs who specialise in genres that resonate with Manchester's musical history—perhaps a band that covers Britpop classics or a DJ spinning Madchester-era tracks. Ensure the volume complements the event; it should be loud enough to energise but not overpower conversation. By thoughtfully integrating these elements into your planning process, you can create an inviting atmosphere that enhances both aesthetic appeal and guest interaction at your chosen Manchester bar. ### Catering and Entertainment: Enhancing the Guest Experience Elevating the guest experience at your Manchester bar event hinges on two pivotal elements: catering and entertainment. Here’s how to make these aspects shine, ensuring a memorable occasion for all attendees. **Catering Options:** Most bars in Manchester offer a range of catering services, but it's essential to tailor the menu to your event's theme and audience. For a touch of local flavour, consider incorporating dishes that feature regional ingredients or are inspired by local cuisine. If the bar allows external caterers, this could be an opportunity to bring in specialty foods that align with your event’s unique character. Don’t forget to include diverse dietary options — from vegan and gluten-free dishes to allergen-friendly choices — ensuring every guest feels catered for. **Signature Drinks:** Create a bespoke cocktail menu or ask the bar if they can craft signature drinks that reflect the theme of your event. This not only adds an exclusive feel but also keeps guests engaged as they enjoy custom creations. **Entertainment Choices:** The right entertainment can significantly enhance the atmosphere. Depending on your audience, you might opt for live music from local bands known for their vibrant performances or DJs who can curate playlists that resonate with Manchester’s iconic music scene ([Bars](https://hirespace.com/GB/Manchester/Northern-Quarter/Bars)). Interactive activities like cocktail making classes or wine tasting sessions also add an educational yet fun element to your gathering. By focusing on these tailored catering and entertainment options, you ensure not just satisfaction but genuine delight among your guests at any Manchester bar venue. ### Post-Event Strategies: Gathering Feedback and Leveraging Social Media After your event at a Manchester bar, it's crucial to gather feedback and effectively use social media to maximise the impact of your gathering. Here’s how you can implement these post-event strategies successfully. **Gathering Feedback:** Immediately after the event, send out a digital feedback form via email or through an event app. Keep the survey short and focused—no more than five questions—to increase completion rates. Ask specific questions about the venue, catering, and overall experience to gain actionable insights. For instance, inquire if the music volume was appropriate or if the transportation options met their needs. **Leveraging Social Media:** Utilise platforms like Instagram and Twitter to extend your event's reach. Encourage attendees to share photos and experiences using a custom hashtag related to your Manchester bar venue ([Bars in Northern Quarter](https://hirespace.com/GB/Manchester/Northern-Quarter/Bars), for example). Post-event, share professional photos of key moments on your company’s social media pages with captions that reflect on successful aspects of the event or highlight what could be improved next time. Additionally, consider creating a short video highlighting attendee testimonials and fun moments from the evening that can be shared online. This not only serves as great content but also helps in promoting future events. By focusing on these post-event strategies, you ensure valuable feedback for improvement while keeping engagement high with attendees through thoughtful social media interaction.

Featured Venues for Bars

Browse 16 venues perfect for Bars

Events at Velvet Hotel, Bar & Brasserie

A cosy brasserie with a private bar, dance floor, and DJ. Ideal for intimate dining or celebrations.

From: £500 per person

Capacity: Up to 80 guests

Dining at Hilton Deansgate

Manchester's highest bar with plush interiors, ideal for afternoon tea, cocktails, and champagne.

From: £1000 per person

Capacity: Up to 300 guests

Weddings at Harvey Nichols

Elegant bar and brasserie with city views, ideal for wedding receptions and upscale parties.

From: £1000 per person

Capacity: Up to 350 guests

Events at The Liquor Store Deansgate

From: £500 per person

Capacity: Up to 150 guests

Film and Photo at The Pen and Pencil

Chic industrial bar in Manchester's Northern Quarter. Ideal for events, filming, and photoshoots.

From: £250 per person

Capacity: Up to 150 guests

Events at Dive NQ

A lively bar in the Northern Quarter with private and public areas, ideal for various events.

From: £100 per person

Capacity: Up to 60 guests

Events at Joshua Brooks

From: £1100 per person

Capacity: Up to 450 guests

Events at Walrus

A stylish cocktail bar with two floors, ideal for parties, live music, and private events.

From: £250 per person

Capacity: Up to 250 guests

Events at Peaky Blinders Manchester

A stylish 1920s-themed lounge for intimate events, featuring a direct view of live entertainment.

From: £1000 per person

Capacity: Up to 26 guests

Dining at Sunset by Australasia

A stylish restaurant with a heated terrace, seating 160, ideal for dining and smaller events.

From: £500 per person

Capacity: Up to 150 guests

...and 6 more venues available

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find a tech-equipped bar in Manchester?

Manchester bars come with varying levels of tech for music and lighting. Match the tech level to your event's theme, ensuring it's not too basic or overwhelming.

How to match a bar to Manchester's demographics?

Select a bar that aligns with your target audience: affordable options for students, upscale for professionals. Consider the local area's demographic for the best fit.

What size bar suits a Manchester event?

In Manchester, opt for a large bar for bustling weekend events or a small, intimate venue for a cosy atmosphere. Consider the expected crowd size and the type of event when choosing.

Are outdoor bar spaces viable in Manchester?

While Manchester's weather can be unpredictable, having a bar with an outdoor area, like a beer garden, is a draw in warmer months. Ensure there's a comfortable indoor space too.

What's the ideal bar location in Manchester?

Choose a centrally located bar in Manchester for high foot traffic and easy access. Avoid secluded spots to ensure your event is convenient for guests using public transport.

What should I look for in a Manchester bar venue?

Choose Manchester bars that combine modern facilities with unique decor like exposed brickwork. Optimal venues are mid-sized, centrally located near transit options, and offer both communal spaces and private areas.

How do I select the right bar in Manchester for networking events?

For networking events in Manchester bars, seek out venues with informal settings conducive to mingling but also include private sections like booths or VIP areas where discussions can be held more privately.

What pricing should I expect when booking a bar in Manchester?

Expect mid-range pricing at most Manchester bars suitable for corporate events; typically around £50 - £100 per head depending on the exclusivity and services provided by the venue.

Are there any specific types of bars best suited for corporate gatherings?

Bars blending contemporary design with traditional elements work best; they provide relaxed yet professional atmospheres ideal for corporate gatherings without being too formal.

How important is location when choosing a bar in Manchester?

Location is crucial; choose centrally located bars within walking distance from major transport links like train stations or bus routes which facilitate easy access

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