Drinking in Manchester

Start with location and duration. A near-city-centre bar crawl or a guided gin tour can be ideal for a social evening, while a full tasting session may suit a longer night out. Check inclusions, some deals include tastings, food pairings, or a guided host, while others are drink-only credits.

Consider group size and accessibility. Many experiences work well for small groups, but some pub crawls benefit from larger parties for pace and value. If accessibility matters, verify step-free access, lifts, or ground-floor venues. Always confirm age requirements and ID rules to avoid delays at the venue.

Look at cancellation policies and expiry dates so you can plan with confidence. For non-drinkers or guests who want to mix in non-alcoholic options, check for mocktails or soft drinks options as part of the package. Dress codes, weather contingencies and start times are also worth noting for a smooth evening.

Pub crawls in Manchester are a favourite for social groups, letting you hop between historic pubs and modern bars in the Northern Quarter, Deansgate and Oxford Road. Guided gin tours showcase local distilleries and premium gin bars, often featuring tastings and mingling with experts.

Beer lovers seek craft beer tastings and brewery tours around Manchester’s growing micro-brewery scene, including venues in Salford and the surrounding districts. Cocktail masterclasses teach mixology basics, shaken and stirred with style, while wine tastings highlight regional labels and European vintages. Whisky nights and rum tastings offer deeper flavour profiles for connoisseurs.

There are family-friendly tasting experiences and non-alcoholic options, such as mocktail making classes and artisan coffee tastings, to include everyone in the fun. Nightlife-focused options may feature VIP entry, table service and special events at popular clubs and lounges.

Start with Wowcher’s Manchester pages and search for drinking in Manchester. Filter by neighbourhoods like Manchester city centre, Northern Quarter and Spinningfields to locate venues that fit your route. Compare inclusions, durations and group sizes to pick deals that match your plans.

Read the fine print for inclusions, some offers include tastings or food pairings, others are drink-only credits. Look for deals with flexible dates and clear redemption instructions so you can book quickly and securely. Check the total value versus the wowcher price to ensure you’re getting standout savings over a normal night out.

After purchasing, you’ll receive a Wowcher code and redemption link. The code is entered at checkout on the venue’s site or presented to the front desk, depending on the deal. Some experiences require you to book a date first, then present the Wowcher code on arrival. Always check the expiry date and any blackout periods.

If you’re organising a group night, check whether the deal covers multiple participants and whether additional guests pay at the venue. Keep your code handy and bring photo ID if required. If a venue offers digital vouchers, you can often store the code in your wallet for quick access on the night.

Yes. Many Manchester experiences include non-alcoholic options such as mocktails, soft drinks, or tea tastings. Cocktail classes can offer alcohol-free mixes, and some venues host dessert tastings and coffee experiences that are suitable for all ages. For younger guests or those avoiding alcohol, look for tours and tastings that focus on history, production processes, or food and drink pairings without heavy drinking.

Always check the deal details for inclusions and age restrictions, and if in doubt, contact the venue or Wowcher support for clarification. Some experiences are designed for adults only, while others welcome families with alternative activities and menus.

Plan transport in advance. Use taxi apps, ride-sharing services or designated drivers to avoid drinking and driving. Stay hydrated and pace yourself, especially on pub crawls or multi-venue events. If you’re on a guided tour, listen to the host’s safety reminders and follow venue guidelines. Always respect local rules and venue capacities, and keep valuables secure in crowded spaces.

With responsible planning, you can enjoy the best of Manchester’s bars and pubs while staying safe. Explore our latest drinking in Manchester deals on Wowcher UK and raise a glass to a memorable night out in Manchester.