Guinness has released its first-ever Harp Guide, an official ranking of where in the UK you can enjoy the best pints of the black stuff.
In total, 35 pubs have been included in the inaugural guide, based on five criteria: the quality of pour, welcoming atmosphere, strong community, great service and a ‘genuine love of Guinness’.
Three Manchester favourites were featured in the Harp Guide. In the city centre, the famous Mulligans earned a spot, and given that they serve more than 13,000 pints of Guinness every week, it’s hardly a massive surprise.
Pádraig Brady, owner of Mulligans, said: “Being recognised in the inaugural Guinness Harp Guide is a real privilege. It’s no secret that every pub gets the same kegs of Guinness delivered, but what makes the difference is everything that happens after that. The right equipment, correct cellar procedures and conditions, staff who know how to pour it perfectly, the atmosphere, the daily live music – it all matters. We’ve always focused on doing things consistently, and being the sole Manchester city centre pub in the guide is testament to that consistency”.
Both of Manchester’s other spots came via Didsbury. The brilliant Station, with its cosy, narrow bar and lively atmosphere, was included, as was Kennedy’s, which only opened its doors in the area earlier this year, after making a name for itself in Altrincham.
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A little further afield, the Pogue Mahone, The Monro and Shenanigans, all in Liverpool, join to fly the flag for the North West. You can find all pubs listed in Guinness’ Harp Guide here.
- Words:
- Bradley Lengden
- Published on:
- Wed 10 Dec 2025
