Summer is here and it’s got us dreaming about hazy evenings sat supping pints and talking rubbish, fuelled by endless supplies of scampi fries and pork scratchings.
For a city centre, Manchester is blessed with an array of gorgeous outdoor drinking spots—from picturesque canal-side stools to hidden nooks away from the hustle and bustle, we’ve picked out some of our favourite places to grab a cold one and bask in the sun…or rain.
Slightly more out the way, but well worth the ten-minute stroll. The Angel is another lovely old-school pub that boasts a seriously strong drink selection. The outside space is HUGE and is absolutely buzzing the moment the sun threatens to flicker.
Rain Bar offers undoubtedly one of the prettiest beer gardens in the city, with the terrace backing straight onto the Bridgewater Canal—a quite glorious space to spend a long Saturday afternoon.
The Pev is another that holds its own spot in Mancunian legend, largely thanks to its iconic, unmistakable yellow tiles that line the outside. An absolute must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
Manchester’s beloved street food slingers have transformed an unassuming courtyard into a charming garden area filled with foliage and makeshift seating. Along with the splendid space, there’s the added benefit of a rotating list of mouthwatering street food vendors each week, and of course, a comprehensive collection of local pours.
This no-nonsense, cash-only Manchester stalwart is famed for its cheap pints of Taddy lager, historic wooden exterior and a city centre beer garden that is packed to the rafters on a sunny day. Get in early if you want to grab a table, they don’t stick around for long.
Mostly known for being the ultimate pre-gig hangout along Oxford Road, Big Hands’ fairy light-laden roof terrace is well worth a visit on its own.
Didsbury’s own hidden gem, The Fletcher Moss, is an excellent little gaff tucked away just off the main road through Didsbury Village, conveniently less than a one-minute walk from the tram. Along with the massive outdoor space, much of which is heated, we’re fairly confident they pull one of the best Guinness in Manchester too.
Just between the edge of Northern Quarter and Ancoats, Fringe’s garden is one of our favourite hidden gems in the whole of Manchester. Specialising in weird and wonderful Belgian ales, it’s a must-visit for any keen beer fan.
Another ideal option for anyone looking to venture out of the centre, The New Oxford on Chapel Street is another firm favourite of ours. Another traditional pub with a comprehensive ale list, the outdoor seating is a great little suntrap that tends to be a little more laid-back than in the heart of town.
Another wonderfully scenic option down by the waterways of Castlefield, The Wharf manages to capture the essence of a welcoming countryside pub right in the heart of Manchester.
Just 20 minutes on the tram and you can make the most of Altrincham’s thriving food and drink scene, with King’s Court being a particular outdoorsy highlight. Whether it’s crisp pints of Pomona and the football at Libero, gorgeous nattie wines at Batch or live music from the Cheshire Tap, there’s plenty to keep you going.
- Words:
- Bradley Lengden
- Published on:
- Tue 19 Jul 2022
An establishment firmly etched into Manchester-pub folklore, the Briton’s Protection encapsulates everything great about a proper traditional boozer. To complement that, the historic building also boasts a huge outdoor area around the back.