Hare & Hounds - Manchester - Pub Reviews

The Hare & Hounds is a historic Grade II-listed pub located at 46 Shudehill in Manchester’s Northern Quarter (M4 4AA), known for its traditional charm and lively community vibe. Housed in a building dating back to around 1800 (remodelled in 1925), this pub exudes old-world character with a spectacular preserved interior from the 1920s. It’s a favourite haunt for locals and real ale enthusiasts, boasting well-kept Joseph Holt’s Bitter on tap and regular guest ales, all served in an authentic multi-room layout that’s increasingly rare in Manchester’s city centre. With a strong customer rating (~4.5/5) and welcoming staff, the Hare & Hounds offers a warm slice of Manchester pub history for anyone seeking a no-nonsense pint and a bit of nostalgia. Opening hours are 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Monday–Wednesday, 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday–Saturday, and 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM on Sundays.

Facilities & Entertainment

Despite its city-centre location, the Hare & Hounds maintains a cosy, “local pub” atmosphere with a focus on conversation, beer, and communal fun. Don’t come here expecting modern pub games or big pub-grub dining – there’s no on-site parking, no dartboard or pool table to speak of. Instead, entertainment at the Hare & Hounds centres around its vibrant social events and sports screenings. The pub has TVs for live sports, and it’s popular with sports fans who often pack the place during football matches and other big events (the atmosphere can be electric during a Manchester derby or cup final). In fact, live sports broadcasts are a staple, drawing in crowds looking to cheer on their team over a pint. However, unlike a dedicated sports bar, the sound of cheering might blend with the pub’s own music or sing-alongs, keeping the mood communal rather than overwhelming.

One of the Hare & Hounds’ signature offerings is its “Free and Easy” sing-alongs – a beloved tradition that gives this pub a unique identity. On select nights (typically mid-week and on weekends), the back lounge comes alive with informal karaoke-style entertainment. Patrons of all ages (though especially the regulars “of a certain age”) join in singing classics from the 60s through 80s, creating a lively, karaoke-in-the-living-room vibe. It’s not unusual to walk in and hear a crowd belting out Rhinestone Cowboy or I Will Survive together, led by either a live keyboardist/DJ or just enthusiastic regulars and a microphone. These free-and-easy nights harken back to a classic Manchester pub tradition and foster a strong sense of community – anyone can jump in for a song, and newcomers are often welcomed to sing along. Aside from the sing-alongs, the Hare & Hounds occasionally hosts other low-key live music or DJ events. For example, Sunday afternoons might feature a DJ spinning throwback hits, keeping the vibe upbeat. There’s no formal theatre or quiz night here, but you might find the occasional themed music night or a celebratory event tied to local happenings (especially if Manchester’s sports teams have a victory to celebrate).

In terms of creature comforts, the pub keeps things simple and traditional. There is no beer garden, but in decent weather some patrons spill just outside the entrance with their drinks (there isn’t much dedicated outdoor seating, given the pub fronts a busy street). Wi-Fi is available (via The Cloud) for those who want to stay connected, but most people here seem more inclined to chat with friends than stare at phones. It’s also a dog-friendly pub – don’t be surprised to see a couple of content canines curled up at their owners’ feet, only adding to the homely atmosphere. Overall, the Hare & Hounds is a no-frills, all-fun kind of place: it foregoes modern gimmicks in favour of time-honoured pub entertainment. Whether you’re catching a live football match or joining a roomful of regulars in a nostalgic sing-along, the focus is on good beer and good company rather than flashy facilities.

Food on Offer

Food isn’t the main attraction at the Hare & Hounds – this is first and foremost a drinker’s pub – but you can still find some sustenance to go with your pint. The pub caters to traditional pub fare, albeit on a modest scale. While there’s no extensive kitchen or trendy gastropub menu, patrons report a few hearty, simple options available to order. Think along the lines of classic bar snacks. you might find crisps, peanuts or a ploughman’s etc, but it’s safe to assume the Hare & Hounds isn’t a full-service restaurant – it’s the kind of place where the drinks take centre stage, and the food is there as a supporting act. If having a meal is a priority, you might plan to dine elsewhere before or after your visit; but if you’re just looking for a quick snack with your pint, the Hare & Hounds’ humble food offerings will do the job in a pinch.

Locals appreciate that even as the Northern Quarter around it has become trendier, the Hare & Hounds has stuck to its unpretentious roots, keeping both its food and drink accessible. In summary, come for the beer and atmosphere, and treat any snacks as a bonus. The pub provides just enough in the way of munchies to keep you going, all in the spirit of a classic Manchester boozer where a packet of crisps or a pork pie might well be all you need.

Beers on Tap

The Hare & Hounds is a real ale haven that proudly serves well-kept local brews, making it a must-visit for beer enthusiasts who appreciate a traditional pint. At the heart of the line-up is Joseph Holt’s Bitter, the house beer and a Manchester classic. Holt’s Bitter is almost always on hand pump here – a staple 4% ABV amber bitter known for its satisfying balance of malt and a pronounced bitter finish. In the Hare & Hounds, Holt’s Bitter is poured excellently: pints come properly pulled with a tight creamy head, reflecting the pub’s commitment to quality ale. In fact, the Hare & Hounds has a reputation for keeping its cask ales in great condition (it’s even Cask Marque accredited), so you can expect your pint to be fresh. One beer blogger noted that their Holt’s was “in great form” on a busy night (scoring a high 3.5/5 on the beer quality scale), which speaks to the cellarman ship here.

Beyond the house bitter, you’ll typically find at least two other cask ales on tap at any given time. The exact selection rotates, but often includes Joseph Holt Mild (another traditional brew from Holt’s brewery) and a guest ale or two from regional breweries. The guests tend to be local ales or popular northern brews, keeping the selection interesting for regulars. For example, on some visits patrons have found Ossett Brewery’s “White Rat” pale ale as a guest beer, or seasonal ales from microbreweries. However, don’t expect a wall of 20 taps with every trendy IPA – the Hare & Hounds sticks to a curated handful of beers, focusing on quality over quantity. It’s a “bitter and mild” kind of pub at heart, in true Greater Manchester tradition. That said, the bar also stocks the usual lagers and bottled beers for those who prefer something more familiar. You might see mainstream lagers like Carlsberg or a stout on keg, but cask ale is king here.

If you’re not into beer, the pub does carry a selection of wines and spirits, though these are fairly standard. You can get your G&T or glass of wine, but most people are nursing pints of ale or perhaps a whisky chaser. Soft drinks are available too, of course, for designated drivers or those taking a break. Speaking of drivers – remember there’s no parking lot, so you’re likely arriving by tram, bus or on foot (more on location later), which fortunately means you can fully enjoy that pint without worry. Overall, the Hare & Hounds’ beer offering is traditional, modest, but top-notch in care and taste. Real ale aficionados will appreciate that it’s one of CAMRA’s listed heritage pubs and that it serves Holts beers at their best. And if you’re new to British ales, this pub is a great place to try a true Northern bitter in an authentic setting. Just sidle up to the bar, ask for a pint of bitter, and you’ll be treated to a timeless taste of Manchester’s brewing heritage in your glass.

Price Range & Value

One of the refreshing things about the Hare & Hounds is that it offers excellent value for money, especially given its city centre location. This pub falls into a comfortable ££ price range, meaning you can enjoy a night out here without breaking the bank. Drinks prices are very reasonable by Manchester standards – a pint of the house Holt’s Bitter typically costs around £3 to £3.50, which is notably cheaper than many trendier Northern Quarter bars (where craft pints often start at £5+). In a recent account, a customer reported paying £3.30 for a pint of Holts bitter, remarking that it was cheaper than some nearby pubs. Guest ales or premium lagers might be a bit more (around £4-£5), but overall the Hare & Hounds prides itself on keeping prices attractive for the community it serves. This means you can grab a couple of pints and some snacks here without feeling the pinch – a big reason regulars keep coming back.

Food, in its limited form, is also affordably priced. A sandwich or pie is likely just a few pounds. For example, a pork pie or sausage roll might be in the £2-£4 range, and a simple hot dish (if available) might run under a tenner. A night at the Hare & Hounds could easily see you get a few pints and a bite for under £15, which is terrific value in central Manchester. The pub doesn’t do table service or fancy frills, and that’s reflected in the honest pricing. Service charges are not a thing here; you’ll order at the bar, pay as you go (tipping isn’t expected in pubs, though rounding up for great service is always appreciated).

In terms of payment, note that the Hare & Hounds is a bit old-school: many patrons report it’s not cash only (but at least heavily cash-preferred). This is worth knowing before you arrive – swing by an ATM if needed, as handing over a few pound notes is the usual way to settle up here. While more and more pubs have adopted card payments, the Hare & Hounds’ traditional approach extends to the till in this case. Most customers don’t mind, given the small amounts and quick service. And if anything, it adds to the “step back in time” charm – there’s something fitting about paying for a pint the same way people have done here for decades.

The bottom line is that value for money at the Hare & Hounds is excellent. You’re getting not just a drink, but an experience steeped in character, for a very fair price. In reviews, visitors consistently remark that it’s “fairly priced” and “honest” in what it charges, especially considering the quality of the ales and the central location. In a city where chic cocktail bars and chain restaurants can be pricey, this pub stands out as a budget-friendly alternative. Whether you’re a local on a regular pint or a traveller popping in to see a genuine Manchester pub, you’ll likely leave feeling that every quid was well spent – and perhaps with enough change left to buy a round for the next visit.

Customer Service

Customer service at the Hare & Hounds tends to be friendly, down-to-earth, and rooted in a sense of community. This pub has been serving Mancunians for generations, and that continuity is reflected in the staff’s approach. Walk up to the bar and you’ll often be greeted by a smiling bartender or the long-time landlady herself. There’s a personal touch to the service here – staff are known to share a bit of banter with patrons and are quick with a warm welcome, especially if you appear to be a newcomer. Regulars might be addressed by name or have their “usual” poured almost before they ask. This kind of familiar, familial service makes the Hare & Hounds feel like a home away from home for many. One aggregated review noted the staff are “friendly and professional, always ready with a warm welcome and a good chat”, which encapsulates the general sentiment.

Despite the pub’s sometimes rambunctious atmosphere during events, the staff manage to keep things running efficiently. On a normal afternoon or weeknight, you’ll find service to be prompt and attentive – getting a pint is straightforward and you won’t be left waiting long. Even when the pub gets crowded (say, right before a big football match kick-off or in the middle of a Saturday sing-along), the bar staff work briskly to serve everyone in turn. In fact, in one first-hand account the writer noted being served very quickly at the busy bar by a barmaid he recognised from previous visits, illustrating that even when three deep at the bar, the team handles the rush with aplomb. The familiarity among staff means they have a rhythm and can handle peak times, though naturally you might wait a few minutes longer if it’s jam-packed – that’s just part of the pub experience.

The Hare & Hounds staff also maintain a no-nonsense but caring approach to managing the pub. The landlady (or landlord) won’t hesitate to enforce rules for the comfort of all. For instance, there’s a story from a reviewer about a large group having a sing-song of their own and being asked by the landlady to keep it down as it was disrupting others’ TV viewing. Depending on your perspective, that can be seen as either strict or appropriately attentive – in any case, it shows the staff keep an eye on the atmosphere to ensure everyone enjoys their time. Generally, as long as you’re respectful and in good spirits, you’ll find the team as laid-back and jolly as the patrons. They’re also quite knowledgeable about the beers; if you’re unsure what to order, don’t hesitate to ask for a recommendation. The bartenders can tell you about the guest ales’ flavour profiles or pour a small taster if you’d like to try before you buy – common practice in UK real ale pubs.

One thing to remember is the pub’s traditional service style: there’s no table service, so you order at the bar. During very busy events, the small bar area can get crowded, and you might have to grab the staff’s attention with a friendly “When you’re ready” nod – but they’re pretty good at seeing who’s next. Patience is rewarded, and often another regular will chat with you while you wait. If the pub is quieter, staff might even come around to collect empty glasses or check if you’re doing alright, but generally you’re left to relax at your own pace (no one will hurry you to free a table, for example). This relaxed, “make yourself at home” service ethos is part of the charm. Many reviewers mention the sense of community and welcome the staff foster, making even first-timers feel like they’ve been coming for years. In summary, expect genuine hospitality rather than polished corporate service – the Hare & Hounds team may be small, but they deliver warmth and good cheer in abundance. Just remember to say thanks (and perhaps bring some cash!), and you’ll be treated like a local in no time.

Events & Special Nights

The Hare & Hounds may be a historic pub, but it certainly isn’t stuck in the past when it comes to having a good time. The pub hosts a variety of events and special nights that keep the calendar lively and give patrons plenty of reasons to return regularly. Chief among these is the aforementioned “Free and Easy” sing-along night, arguably the pub’s marquee event. This is an informal karaoke-style evening that usually takes place once or twice a week (often on Wednesday nights and either Saturday or Sunday). It’s called “free and easy” for a reason – there’s no cover charge, no strict program, just an open mic and a willingness to sing. Regulars absolutely love it; some have been coming for years specifically for these sing-alongs. The song choices tend toward classics and nostalgic hits, so you’ll hear plenty of golden oldies, rock ‘n’ roll, Motown, and sing-along anthems. There’s a real pub community choir feel to it when the whole room joins in on the chorus. Even if you’re not one to grab the mic, it’s entertaining to watch and soak up the infectious enthusiasm. Visitors often remark that stumbling upon a free-and-easy night at the Hare & Hounds is like finding a “hidden gem” of local culture – it’s a genuine slice of Manchester life that you won’t get in a chain bar.

In addition to the sing-alongs, live music occasionally graces the Hare & Hounds. The pub has hosted local singers or duos, especially on weekends. These aren’t big-name concerts by any stretch, but rather laid-back live performances that complement the pub’s vibe – think acoustic guitar covers, retro pop tunes, or a bit of keyboard and vocals. Sometimes the line between a “live music night” and the usual sing-along is blurred, as a musician might lead the crowd in song. Either way, if you’re there on a Friday or Saturday evening, there’s a chance you’ll catch some form of entertainment beyond the hum of conversation.

Sports nights are another major draw. Whenever there’s a significant football match or other sporting event (World Cup, Premier League, rugby, boxing, etc.), the Hare & Hounds tends to show it on their screens. Big Manchester City or Manchester United games can turn the pub into a sea of focused fans. During these times, the atmosphere rivals that of any sports bar – passionate, noisy (in a fun way), and full of camaraderie. It’s common to see the pub packed to the rafters for a derby match, with pints clinking and cheers or groans at each goal. If you prefer quieter times, you might avoid major match hours, but for many, watching a game here is a quintessential experience. No, it’s not a huge pub with a giant projector, but that actually makes it more enjoyable for the regulars – it feels like watching the game in your local with friends, rather than in an impersonal venue.

Beyond music and sports, the pub occasionally organises or supports themed nights and community events. For instance, they’ve been known to celebrate events like Halloween or St. Patrick’s Day with decorations and themed music. “Meet-ups” of local groups or informal reunions also happen here, given its central location and convivial space. While the Hare & Hounds doesn’t run a weekly quiz or bingo night, it’s the kind of place many will gather after an event (like post-theatre or after a gig in town) to keep the night going. Thanks to its proximity to the AO Arena and other venues, you might find crowds coming in after a concert to wind down with a final drink.

Lastly, it’s worth noting that the pub’s historic status sometimes makes it a stop on heritage pub crawls or CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) events. CAMRA meetings or real ale trails occasionally bring extra visitors who are keen to admire the 1920s interior while enjoying a pint. The management is supportive of such interest – they know they are custodians of a special piece of pub history – so don’t be surprised if you encounter a guided group at a quiet time, learning about the tiles and woodwork. All in all, the Hare & Hounds strikes a lovely balance: it’s reliably the same friendly pub day-to-day, but it also spices things up with events that keep things fun and unpredictable. Whether you drop in on a random afternoon or during a big event night, there’s always something happening – even if it’s just a spontaneous chat with a stranger at the bar. That, in itself, is part of the everyday “event” at the Hare & Hounds: good conversation and good cheer.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Step inside the Hare & Hounds and you’re immediately enveloped in a warm, nostalgic atmosphere that sets it apart from modern bars. The pub’s interior is essentially a time capsule of 1920s pub design, and that gives it a cosy, old-fashioned charm that you notice as soon as you walk through the door. The layout is distinctive: rather than one large open space, the Hare & Hounds has a classic multi-room plan with a front snug (the “vault”), a central lobby bar area, and a rear lounge. These areas are connected by a narrow corridor running along one side of the pub – a feature very typical of Northern England pub architecture from a century ago. As you enter through the front door on Shudehill, you find yourself in that side corridor with beautiful glazed tile work on the walls. In fact, the interior is lined with glossy tiles in tones of brown, cream, and green, which not only add to the visual appeal but also have that practical purpose of being easy to clean (a nod to the pub’s working-class roots). Two vestibule entrances with tiled walls and mosaic flooring welcome you at either end of the corridor, giving a grand yet homey first impression.

From the corridor, you can step into the front bar (the Vault), or into the central lobby bar, or head further back to the lounge. The central lobby is arguably the heart of the pub – it’s an open area in front of the bar counter where people can stand and mingle. Here you’ll see one of the pub’s crown jewels: the original 3-sided wooden bar counter with a “glazed superstructure” overhead. This essentially looks like a row of indoor sash windows with stained and leaded glass above the bar, a gorgeous antique feature from the 1925 remodel. The back-bar behind the counter is similarly historic, complete with mirrors and carved wood, giving the feeling you’re ordering ale in a bygone era. The vault (front room) is a small room with its own portion of the bar – traditionally this would have been the working men’s taproom. It still has fixed bench seating, more wall tiles, and vintage photos of “Manchester as it was” decorating the walls. It’s the kind of snug where regulars post up on their favourite bench and share banter under sepia-toned photographs of old Manchester streets.

The rear lounge is slightly larger and tends to host the sing-alongs. Here you’ll find a fireplace with a 1920s wood-surround mantel and bell-push buttons on the walls – unbelievably, relics of an era when patrons could press for service from their seat. (Of course, those bell pushes are just decoration now.) The lounge has cosy nooks and more traditional pub seating, perfect for whiling away an afternoon. Thanks to the separate rooms, the Hare & Hounds can feel bustling and lively in one area, while relatively quiet in another, depending on the mix of patrons. On a busy Saturday night, the lobby might be shoulder-to-shoulder with people singing and chatting, while the vault offers a quiet refuge for a conversation over a pint.

The overall ambiance is often described as very “authentic” and welcoming. There’s usually music playing softly in the background during off-peak times – often classic rock or Motown – but it never overpowers conversation. During events or busier times, the buzz of conversation and laughter fills the air, occasionally punctuated by a chorus from the sing-along or a cheer for a goal on TV. The clientele is a broad mix, but skewed toward mature regulars – you’ll see plenty of folks in their 50s, 60s and up who’ve been coming for years. They’re joined by younger real ale fans, curious tourists, and local office workers popping in, especially on weekdays. The mix of ages and backgrounds actually enhances the atmosphere; it’s a proper community melting pot. Strangers don’t stay strangers long here – it’s common to strike up a friendly chat at the bar or be invited into a discussion about the football or the city’s history. This pub very much embodies the Northern hospitality Manchester is known for.

In terms of accessibility, it’s important to note the Hare & Hounds’ historic architecture does present some challenges. The pub’s entrances and interior were built long before accessibility was a consideration. The front door from the street has a small step up, and once inside, the corridor and doorways are quite narrow (this was a compact pub design even in 1925). Unfortunately, as a result the venue is not wheelchair accessible – a fact echoed by pub guides. Moving between rooms involves going through doorways with raised thresholds, and getting to the toilets (located toward the back, possibly up a couple of steps or around a tight corner) could be difficult for those with mobility issues. There is no disabled toilet facility, and no lift (it’s all ground floor for customers, as the upper floors are unused or for staff). For those who can manage a narrow space with perhaps a cane or some assistance, the staff and regulars are very accommodating – people will gladly make space in the corridor or help open doors. But realistically, the pub’s layout is largely original and thus can be cramped and maze-like when crowded. On a busy night, manoeuvring through the corridor requires a bit of polite patience (and maybe turning sideways with your pint carefully held up!).

Other aspects of accessibility: seating is mostly traditional fixed benches or loose stools; there aren’t many chairs with backs that can be moved around, except in the lounge. If you need a seat, it’s best to arrive in off-peak hours to snag one of the booths or benches. Restroom facilities are basic and located in the rear (gents might be down a narrow stair to a basement level, as in many old pubs, while ladies is on ground level – this isn’t confirmed, but common in similar period pubs). Lighting in the pub is moderate – in daytime, some natural light filters through the leaded windows, but by night it’s low-lit and atmospheric (think more “old tavern glow” than bright and modern).

One modern convenience: as noted, they do have Wi-Fi and are dog-friendly, which adds a bit of contemporary comfort within the vintage setting. And despite any physical limitations, many patrons with varying needs still enjoy the space. The locals are very inclusive and helpful; for instance, older patrons who might have trouble standing for long know they can count on someone to offer them a stool or help carry drinks to a table. That sense of community often bridges any gaps in the building’s design.

In summary, the Hare & Hounds offers an atmosphere that is intimate, lively, and steeped in historical character. It might not be the easiest space to navigate or the quietest corner of Manchester, but for those who venture in, it delivers a rich, memorable pub experience. It’s the kind of place where the surroundings tell a story – if only those tiled walls and wooden bar could talk, imagine the tales of laughter, songs, and friendship over the past century. So grab a pint, squeeze into a spot by the bar or in a booth, and soak up a truly authentic pub atmosphere that transports you to a different era while still feeling completely alive in the present.

Location & Nearby Attractions

The Hare & Hounds enjoys a prime location that is both highly central and deeply woven into Manchester’s urban fabric. Situated on Shudehill, it stands right at the northern edge of the Northern Quarter – an area famed for its independent bars, street art, and creative vibe. In many ways, the Hare & Hounds is a bridge between the Northern Quarter’s trendy scene and the more traditional city centre establishments. You’ll find it directly opposite the Shudehill Transport Interchange, which is one of Manchester’s main public transport hubs (with a bus station and a Metrolink tram stop). This makes the pub extremely easy to reach: if you’re coming from anywhere in Greater Manchester, chances are you can get a bus or tram straight to Shudehill. Step off the tram, and the pub’s distinctive tiled exterior is literally in sight across the street. This convenience is a big plus – many folks use the Hare & Hounds as a meeting point or a quick pit-stop when travelling through the city. For instance, you might pop in for a swift half pint while waiting for your bus or tram.

The pub is also only about 5 minutes’ walk from Manchester Victoria Station, which services national rail and local trains. If you’re coming in by train (say from Leeds or Liverpool) and fancy a pint upon arrival, it’s a short stroll down Corporation Street and along the edge of the Northern Quarter to reach Hare & Hounds. Those travelling by car will find several public parking options nearby (such as the Shudehill NCP multi-storey car park just around the corner), but as mentioned, the pub itself has no parking and driving in the city centre can be tricky. Fortunately, with the excellent transport links, you likely won’t need a car – public transit or walking is the way to go.

In terms of surroundings and nearby attractions, the Hare & Hounds is excellently positioned for explorers. If you’re a shopper, the massive Manchester Arndale shopping centre is just one block away. You can literally exit the pub, walk two minutes, and be in the midst of Arndale’s hundreds of shops. Right next to the Arndale is Exchange Square and the Corn Exchange, which host restaurants and the fascinating National Football Museum (inside the iconic Urbis building). So, a potential itinerary could be touring the Football Museum (which is free entry), then heading to the Hare & Hounds for a pint to discuss your favourite football legends – it’s that close. The Manchester Cathedral and medieval Chetham’s Library are also within a 5-7 minute walk, just beyond Exchange Square, for those interested in historic sites.

For entertainment, the Printworks complex is across Exchange Square – it’s a large entertainment venue with a cinema, clubs, and chain restaurants. But if you’d prefer a more authentic night out, you’re already in the right place: the Northern Quarter’s unique bars and live music venues spread out just behind the Hare & Hounds. In fact, within a few hundred meters you have a diverse selection of pubs and bars. Notably, the Lower Turks Head, another characterful pub (also tiled and historical), is practically next-door (a few doors down Shudehill). A mini “pub crawl” could easily include both – start at the Hare & Hounds for Holts Bitter, then check out the Lower Turks Head for a contrast (they’re actually now under the same Joseph Holt brewery ownership, and it even has an inn upstairs if you need lodgings). A short walk into the heart of Northern Quarter (along Thomas Street or High Street) brings you to contemporary hotspots like The Bay Horse Tavern, Wolf At The Door, or the Millstone, which means you can experience the full range of Manchester pub culture, from old-school to hip, all in one evening.

For those interested in cultural outings, the Manchester Arena (AO Arena) is also nearby (around 10 minutes walk by Victoria Station). Many concert-goers or sports fans heading to an event at the arena find the Hare & Hounds a perfect pre-show gathering spot (or a post-show debrief spot), since it’s on the way back into town from the arena. And because it stays open till midnight on weekends, you might just catch a last round after an event. Additionally, the Manchester Art Gallery and St. Peter’s Square are a bit further (15-20 min walk or a quick tram ride), and even the attractions of Deansgate or Spinningfields (like John Rylands Library, upscale bars, etc.) are reachable by a short tram hop from Shudehill.

In essence, the pub is smack in the middle of everything, yet because it’s on a slightly less tourist-trafficked street (Shudehill is busy with locals and commuters), it retains a local feel. One reviewer noted how it’s great that “shops, the bus station, Printworks, football museum, [and] Manchester Cathedral [are] all within walking distance” – you can truly make the Hare & Hounds your central hub as you explore Manchester. And if you’re staying in the Northern Quarter or anywhere in the city centre, you can likely reach the pub on foot from your accommodation. For example, hotels around Piccadilly or the Central Retail District are 10-15 minutes walk. The surrounding area is generally safe and well-lit, though like any city centre, expect it to be lively at night with revellers especially on weekends.

One more local tip: directly across from the pub by the interchange is Chapel Street, which leads into Chapel Market (an outdoor street market by day, known for its bargain stalls and street food). And a block north is Angel Meadows park, a small green space with history. So, whether you’re a local looking for a convenient meetup point or a visitor wanting to soak up Manchester’s sights and nightlife, the Hare & Hounds sits in an ideal spot. It gives you a taste of real Manchester both literally (via its ales) and figuratively (via its neighbourhood and neighbours). Plan on popping in either as the start of your Northern Quarter adventure or as a satisfying end to a day of sightseeing – its doors are just about always open when you need a pint and a rest.

Overall Impression

The Hare & Hounds is more than just a pub – it’s a Manchester institution that encapsulates the city’s pub culture, past and present. After spending time here, one can’t help but feel a deep appreciation for what the Hare & Hounds represents. In an age of rapidly changing city landscapes and modern cocktail bars, this pub stands proudly as a torch bearer of tradition. Its beautifully preserved 1920s interior, complete with tiled walls, cosy snugs, and original bar fittings, offers an ambience you simply can’t fake or fabricate. There’s a certain magic in sipping a well-poured pint of bitter in that tiled lobby, hearing the laughter of locals who’ve been coming for decades, and knowing that generations before experienced the same simple pleasure in that very spot. It’s like time travel with a beer in hand – you get to taste history and community in every sip.

One of the Hare & Hounds’ greatest strengths is how it marries history with liveliness. This isn’t a dusty museum piece of a pub; it’s bustling with life and character. On one visit you might find a raucous sing-along in full swing, on another you might stumble into a passionate debate about football at the bar, and on a quiet afternoon you could relax in the vault with the newspaper as soft music plays. The pub manages to be many things to many people: a mid-day refuge for shoppers and workers, a pre-game rally spot for fans, a nightly home for regulars, and a delightful discovery for tourists seeking authenticity. Importantly, it does all these things without pretension. The vibe is unpolished in the best way – it’s genuine. As one reviewer cleverly put it, you’ll either love its no-nonsense charm or find it a bit old-school, “but that’s the beauty of these timeless spots”. Countless people clearly fall in the “love it” camp, given the overwhelmingly positive ratings and comments about warmth, value, and atmosphere.

Of course, with historic character come some quirks that might not suit everyone. The decor, while charming, can indeed appear a bit worn around the edges – the pub hasn’t had a modern refit in ages (intentionally so), so don’t expect slick furniture or trendy lighting. “A little tired” is how some describe it, but usually with affection because it’s part of the charm. The limited drinks selection (centring on the classics like bitter and mild) might disappoint those looking for a hundred craft beers or elaborate cocktails. And yes, if you’re a younger patron used to more contemporary bars, you might at first find the clientele and style a tad more traditional than you’re accustomed to. But give it a chance – there’s something infectious about the convivial spirit here that bridges generations. Another minor downside: when it’s packed, it’s packed. The cosy rooms can become standing-room only pretty quickly during big events, which means it might not be the best for those who dislike crowds or want personal space. However, regulars will tell you that being shoulder-to-shoulder singing a chorus with strangers is exactly when the Hare & Hounds shines.

Summing up the overall experience, the Hare & Hounds offers a genuine pub experience that’s increasingly hard to find. It’s the sort of place where the bartenders are real people who chat with you, not just uniformed servers. Where the building itself tells a story, and the patrons are eager to share one of their own. Where you can spend less than a tenner and walk out not only satisfied, but feeling like you’ve been welcomed into a community. It’s no wonder many visitors come away with fond memories – whether it’s a memorable conversation with a local character, a new favourite ale discovered, or the simple joy of joining in a pub song. One could argue that if you want to truly understand Manchester, you should spend an evening at the Hare & Hounds: it captures the city’s hearty blend of history, humour, hospitality, and heart.

The Hare & Hounds is a must-visit for anyone who values the authentic over the artificial. It’s a pub that wears its history proudly, yet remains a daily living room for the neighbourhood. I’d recommend it wholeheartedly – come as you are, grab a pint of Holts, and soak in one of Manchester’s quintessential pub atmospheres. It’s places like this that keep the soul of the city alive. You might arrive as a stranger, but you’ll likely leave feeling like a regular, already planning your next visit to this historic gem on Shudehill.