Rising Sun - Manchester - Pub Reviews

We slipped through its twin doorways into The Rising Sun on Queen Street in Manchester’s city centre – a 17th-century haven where seven rotating casks, Mr Smith’s smoky chilli, and wood‑panelled snug corners serve up a calm, conversational pint amid the city bustle. The Rising Sun is a historic pub tucked just off Deansgate (22 Queen Street, M2 5HX), known for its traditional charm and emphasis on real ales and home-cooked food. This pub’s roots reportedly date back to 1684, making it one of Manchester’s oldest pub sites. In fact, it’s one of only a few city-centre pubs to boast both a front and rear entrance – the main door opens onto Queen Street (facing Lincoln Square’s statue of President Lincoln) while a second entrance connects to Lloyd Street. A refurbishment in 2012 restored much of its classic character, giving the interior a warm, old-world feel. It’s a popular haunt for local office workers, real ale enthusiasts, and city visitors alike, drawn by the reliable cask ales, hearty homemade lunches, and the cosy, unpretentious atmosphere. The pub currently holds a solid customer rating (around 4.0 out of 5), reflecting a positive reputation for its atmosphere, beer selection, and value. Opening hours are 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM on Mondays, until 10:00 PM on Tuesdays, 11:00 PM on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, with Sunday being a day of rest (closed).

Facilities & Entertainment

The Rising Sun offers a cosy, no-frills setting that centres on good beer and conversation rather than high-tech entertainment. As a traditional city pub, it does not have any on-site parking, so those arriving by car will need to use nearby car parks or street parking (limited and often metered). Inside, you won’t find the typical pub games like dartboards or pool tables – space is at a premium in this long, narrow pub, leaving little room for such extras. There are a couple of TV screens mounted unobtrusively in the corners; these might show a big football or rugby match on occasion, but they are small and low-key. In other words, live sports aren’t a primary focus here – if there’s a major game on, the pub may screen it, but on most days the TVs are either off or easily tuned out. This deliberate absence of blaring sports or arcade machines helps maintain The Rising Sun’s relaxed vibe. Patrons often comment that it feels like a welcome alternative to the large chain pubs in the area – no loud music, no fruit machines, just the gentle buzz of conversation in a classic pub environment.

Modern conveniences haven’t been entirely forgotten: The Rising Sun offers free Wi-Fi (it subscribes to The Cloud network), which is handy for anyone popping in over lunch or waiting out a rain shower with a pint. You might see the occasional laptop open during the daytime, as some office workers extend their lunch break here, but generally the atmosphere is more social than work-oriented. Outdoor space is one thing you won’t find – unlike some pubs, The Rising Sun has no beer garden or patio for summertime drinking. Given its location on a narrow street, there’s simply no room for outdoor seating, so smokers typically step out front onto Queen Street. On a nice day, you might stand by the front door with your pint for a breath of fresh air, but don’t expect a dedicated terrace or courtyard (one TripAdvisor review noted the lack of outdoor space, a minor drawback in good weather). In terms of accessibility, the main entrance on Queen Street has just a small step (nearly level with the pavement), and the interior is all on one floor, making entry relatively easy. That said, the pub’s layout is compact – a single-room bar with sometimes narrow passages when it’s crowded – so it can be a bit of a squeeze during peak times. There is no designated wheelchair-accessible restroom that we’re aware of (the facilities are typical of an old pub), so some mobility challenges could arise in busy periods. For most patrons, however, the classic, intimate layout is a big part of The Rising Sun’s charm. This pub isn’t about flashy amenities; it’s about providing a comfortable, traditional pub space where the highlight is good beer and good company.

Food on Offer

When it comes to pub grub, The Rising Sun sticks to what it does best: traditional British fare, cooked fresh and served without pretension. The pub specialises in home-cooked meals with a focus on lunchtime service – in fact, food is typically available only at midday on weekdays (roughly 12:00–2:00 PM, Tuesday through Friday). This schedule aligns with its popularity among the local workforce. Come noon, you’ll often find the place filling up with office workers and regulars eager for a hearty lunch. The menu isn’t huge, but it covers the classics that hit the spot: think along the lines of a steaming plate of beer-battered fish and chips, a robust meat-and-potato pie, or a cheeseburger with proper chips. Simpler offerings like sandwiches, jacket potatoes, or a ploughman’s lunch might appear, all made from scratch in the small kitchen. The landlord is quite serious about the “home-cooked” aspect – there’s a well-known cheeky warning from him: if you’re in a hurry for food, “go to McDonald’s”. In other words, The Rising Sun doesn’t do fast food; it does good, honest pub food on its own time, and patrons seem to appreciate that quality-first approach.

A standout dish that has almost achieved local legend status is Mr Smith’s Homemade Chilli – a signature house chilli con carne that regulars rave about. This recipe, credited to a former landlord (Mr. Smith), is a smoky, slightly spicy chilli that’s hearty and full of flavour. It’s often served with rice or crusty bread, making for a satisfying meal, especially on a cold Manchester day. Many reviewers and patrons have singled out this chilli as a must-try; it’s the kind of no-nonsense, warming dish that perfectly complements a pint of ale. Aside from the chilli, the pub’s commitment to proper cooking shines through in daily specials and comfort-food favourites. Everything arrives in generous portions – you won’t leave hungry – and the ingredients tend to be locally sourced when possible, though the menu keeps things simple rather than gourmet. Vegetarian options may be limited (perhaps a veggie chilli or a cheese & onion pie if available), but the kitchen usually tries to have at least one non-meat choice on the board to be inclusive. One thing to note: because food service ends after lunch, the evenings at The Rising Sun are more about the liquid refreshment. Don’t expect a dinner menu or hot food at night; by 3 PM the kitchen has wound down. This means the pub in the evening feels more like a proper alehouse, where peanuts or crisps might be your only snack. However, given the plethora of restaurants nearby, many patrons are happy to dine elsewhere and use The Rising Sun as the pre- or post-meal watering hole. All in all, the pub’s food offering can be summed up as unpretentious and hearty – it’s pub comfort food done well, with a particular flair for classic dishes that taste like they came from a home kitchen rather than a corporate freezer. If you’re visiting during lunchtime, it’s well worth indulging in that famed chilli or a plate of whatever special is on, to round out the authentic pub experience.

Beers on Tap

Beer lovers, rejoice: The Rising Sun is first and foremost a real ale pub, and it takes great pride in its beer selection. At the bar, you’ll find an array of hand-pulled cask ales that few pubs of this size can match. Typically, there are around five to seven real ales on tap at any given time, drawn from both local breweries and well-regarded regional ones. (The official tally is often five cask ales rotating, but guest taps sometimes boost that up to six or seven during peak rotations or special events.) The line-up changes regularly, ensuring there’s always something new to try alongside a few reliable favourites. The Rising Sun isn’t tied to a particular brewery, which gives it the freedom to showcase a variety of brands. Common staples include local Greater Manchester brews – for example, ales from Millstone Brewery (based in Mossley) feature permanently and anchor the selection. Millstone’s Vale Mill and other bitters have been noted as delightful pints here. In addition, you’ll frequently find hand-pulls dedicated to Lancaster Brewery and Moorhouse’s (a renowned Lancashire brewery from Burnley) among others. Regulars have enjoyed Moorhouse’s familiar offerings like Pendle Witches Brew or seasonal ales on tap, which speak to the pub’s commitment to northern breweries. It’s not uncommon to see a Timothy Taylor beer or a Copper Dragon ale make an appearance as well, reflecting a range that spans nearby counties and classic English styles.

Inside The Rising Sun – a row of hand pumps showcases the pub’s rotating selection of real ales, which are kept in excellent condition. The beer quality here is consistently praised by real ale aficionados. Cellar management is clearly taken seriously – every pint comes properly conditioned, at the right temperature, and with that clean, fresh taste that signals well-maintained lines. The Rising Sun even earned the CAMRA Pub of the Season (Autumn 2010) award for the Trafford & Hulme branch, underscoring its real ale credentials. The bartenders are quite knowledgeable about the beers on offer; if you’re undecided, they can guide you toward a brew that suits your palate, whether you fancy a malty amber, a hoppy IPA, or a dark stout (availability permitting). On any given week, the “guest” pumps might feature a seasonal ale (say, a winter warmer or a summer golden ale) or spotlight a lesser-known microbrewery, which keeps things interesting for regular patrons.

In addition to the cask ales, The Rising Sun carries the usual suspects of lagers and other drinks. You can get a pint of classic lager or an import if ale isn’t your thing, and there’s a selection of wines and basic spirits behind the bar too – though this is not a cocktail kind of place (don’t expect mixologists shaking up martinis here). Cider drinkers might find a draft cider available (sometimes one of the pumps is devoted to a traditional cider, especially during any cider promotions). But ultimately, it’s the real ale experience that steals the show. Beer enthusiasts appreciate that the pub often participates in events like “brewery takeover” evenings, where a single brewery’s beers dominate the pumps. In the past, there have been nights featuring breweries such as Moorhouse’s, Timothy Taylor, Lancaster Brewery, or even smaller local craft brewers. During these events, brewers or reps might come in to chat about the beers, and there could be a bit of complimentary cheese or snacks – it’s a mini beer festival vibe within the pub. Even if you don’t coincide with a special event, you can trust that The Rising Sun will have a well-curated selection of ales any day of the week. The changing nature of the taps means ale aficionados can almost always sample something new alongside enjoying their trusty favourites. If you’re working your way through Manchester’s real ale circuit, this pub should be high on your list – it’s a place where the pint is paramount, and it shows in every delicious drop.

Price Range & Value

For a pub in the heart of Manchester, The Rising Sun offers refreshing value. Prices here are in line with (or a touch below) the city-centre average, making it an affordable option for both drinks and food. A pint of ale typically costs around £3.75 to £4.00, which is quite reasonable for a well-kept cask in the city. Even specialty or stronger ales usually top out around £4.20–£4.50 at most, so you won’t be paying London prices, that’s for sure. Standard lagers and beers are similarly priced in the £4 range. Given the quality of the beer (and the care with which it’s looked after), most patrons feel they get excellent bang for their buck here. The pub has a no-nonsense approach to pricing – there aren’t really “deals” or gimmicky happy hours, but pints are kept at a fair everyday price. It’s the kind of place where a couple of friends can each get a round in without breaking the bank.

Food is also fairly priced, leaning toward budget-friendly. Most main dishes on the lunchtime menu fall in the £8 – £12 range, with hearty servings that justify the cost. For example, a plate of fish and chips or a big bowl of the famous chilli will come in just under a tenner, which, in Manchester city centre, represents good value. Lighter bites or sandwiches might be even less. Considering that everything is homemade and portions are generous, you’re certainly getting your money’s worth. One could easily pay more at a chain pub for a microwaved meal, whereas here you get the real deal for the same price or less. The Rising Sun’s drinks-to-food value ratio especially shines if you’re just popping in for a pint – the experience of savouring a top-quality ale in a historic pub like this feels worth every penny of that £3.80.

Tipping and service charges are not an expected part of the equation; like most British pubs, you order at the bar and pay as you go, so there’s no table service fee. If you’ve ordered food, you’ll typically pay when ordering and the staff will bring it out to your table. There’s no automatic service charge added, and tipping is optional (though if you’ve had great service, a pound or two left on the table or a friendly “and one for yourself” to the bartender once in a while is always appreciated). By keeping things straightforward and offering quality without an inflated price tag, The Rising Sun positions itself as a high-value stop in the city. Whether you’re a student on a budget, an office worker watching your wallet, or a traveller used to pricier pints elsewhere, you’ll find that a visit here won’t leave you feeling short-changed. In summary, this pub delivers honest pints and plates at honest prices, which in an age of skyrocketing city costs, makes it a bit of a hidden gem for the thrifty pub-goer.

Customer Service

Customer service at The Rising Sun often earns a nod of approval, thanks to its friendly, down-to-earth staff and a generally well-run operation. This pub has been run in a traditional manner for years, and the team behind the bar exudes that no-fuss Northern hospitality. Walk in and you’re likely to be greeted with a smile or a cheerful “What can I get you, love?” even during busy spells. The bartenders here are efficient and attentive, especially notable during the midday rush when dozens of lunch orders might flood in at once. Regulars comment that even when the bar is three-deep with customers, the staff handle the pressure with aplomb – pints are pulled swiftly and correctly, food orders are taken without error, and there’s usually a bit of friendly banter to be had while you wait. There’s a sense of pride and familiarity; some staff members have been around for a while and recognise the regular patrons, which adds to the warmth. If it’s your first visit, don’t be surprised if they engage you in a little chat, perhaps about the ales on tap or to make a recommendation. That personal touch can make newcomers feel like locals.

Of course, like any establishment, The Rising Sun isn’t immune to the occasional service hiccup. A few patrons have noted frustrations regarding closing time – specifically, that last orders and closing announcements aren’t always communicated as clearly as they could be. The pub does tend to close a bit earlier than some other city pubs (as mentioned, around 11 PM on weeknights, midnight on weekends, and even earlier on Monday). This earlier closing time has caught out some late-night seekers who wandered in hoping for a final pint. There have been instances where customers felt the evening was cut short without warning – perhaps the “last call” bell wasn’t rung loudly, or staff started tidying up in a way that surprised those who didn’t know the schedule. The management could perhaps improve on this front by giving a friendly heads-up when the bar is about to stop serving. That said, this is a minor issue in the grand scheme of things, and it often only affects those who arrive very late. The overall sentiment remains that the pub is welcoming and well-managed.

It’s worth noting that The Rising Sun’s style of service is classic and unpretentious – you won’t get fawning over service or corporate-scripted lines, but you will get honest, straightforward help. If the pub isn’t too busy, staff might come around to collect empty glasses and have a quick chat, inquiring if you’re enjoying your drink or need anything else. They’re also quite knowledgeable, especially about the beers; ask about a particular ale and you’ll often get a bit of insight (“Oh, that one’s a nice hoppy pale ale from a brewery in Yorkshire – it was just tapped this morning.”). This expertise reflects the pub’s identity as a real ale haven. On the rare occasion that something isn’t right – say, a flat pint or a mix-up with a food order – the team is quick to apologise and set it straight. The Rising Sun has a loyal base of regulars, and that doesn’t happen without consistent, good service. In summary, expect a pleasant, no-nonsense experience: friendly bar staff who get the job done and make you feel at home, with just a bit of room for improvement in end-of-night communications. It’s the kind of service that turns first-time visitors into repeat customers, fitting perfectly with the pub’s convivial, community-like vibe.

Events & Special Nights

Unlike some of the trendier bars or student pubs in town, The Rising Sun doesn’t rely on a packed calendar of events to draw in the crowds – its appeal is more timeless and organic. There are no regular quiz nights, karaoke sessions, or live band performances on the weekly schedule here. In fact, a big part of the pub’s charm is that on any given evening you can actually hear yourself talk. Conversation and pints take centre stage, not blaring entertainment. That said, the pub isn’t entirely devoid of special happenings. Seasonal events and one-off promotions do pop up from time to time, usually aligning with Manchester’s broader beer culture or citywide festivities. For example, during Manchester’s beer festivals or “Beer Week,” The Rising Sun might feature a tap takeover or a limited edition ale to celebrate. As noted earlier, they have hosted brewery evenings where a particular brewery’s line-up dominates the pumps and sometimes a representative is on hand to chat with patrons. These nights are a treat for beer enthusiasts – imagine sampling four or five different ales from, say, Green Mill Brewery or Moorhouse’s all in one place, with perhaps a little free cheese or bar snacks thrown in for good measure. Such events aren’t on a fixed schedule but tend to be announced in advance on notice boards or the pub’s social media, so locals keep an eye out for them.

The pub also subtly participates in the city’s major events. During big sports occasions – think Manchester derby matches or cup finals – The Rising Sun might draw a crowd of fans looking for a more relaxed viewing experience. With its small TVs, it’s not a sports bar per se, but on a crucial match day the regulars will ensure one screen is tuned to the game. It’s a congenial atmosphere for watching sports: you won’t get stadium-style chanting, but you’ll get some passionate discussions over pints and a cheer or groan at key moments. Once the final whistle blows, it’s back to normal conversation. Additionally, around the holiday season, the pub often fills up with office groups enjoying Christmas drinks or friends meeting for a quiet New Year’s Eve pint before heading elsewhere. There aren’t formal holiday parties, but the festive spirit finds its way in through décor (expect a Christmas tree in the corner and some twinkling lights come December) and the convivial mood of patrons.

One event you won’t find here is anything resembling a club night – no DJs or late-night dance parties. The Rising Sun proudly stays a traditional pub and leaves the high-octane nightlife to other venues. If you are looking for weekly structured entertainment like pub quizzes or open mic nights, you might be better off at another pub nearby. However, if your idea of a great evening is chatting with friends over excellent ale in a historically rich pub, then every night at The Rising Sun is special in its own right. And if you’re lucky enough to catch one of their occasional brewery showcases or special cask launches, you’ll see that this pub can indeed rise to an event, all while keeping its laid-back soul intact. In summary, The Rising Sun’s “events” are low-key and beer-centric – exactly what you’d expect from an authentic ale house that prioritises quality brews and camaraderie over gimmicks.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Step inside The Rising Sun and you’re immediately enveloped in a cosy, old-fashioned pub atmosphere that’s becoming rarer in today’s high-gloss bar scene. The 2012 refurbishment imbued the interior with traditional character – you’ll notice dark wood panels, a patterned carpet, and vintage pub accents that make the space feel warm and inviting. The layout is essentially one long room that runs between the two street entrances (a product of the building being “cut through” from Queen Street to Lloyd Street, a clever design seen in a few historic Manchester pubs). Because of a 1960s knock-through, what might once have been multiple small rooms is now an open-plan rectangle. Yet it doesn’t feel barren or echoey; instead, it’s segmented by the arrangement of furniture into snug corners and alcoves. Along the walls, you’ll find bench seating upholstered in worn leather, paired with dark wooden tables. There are also a few high bar tables with stools near the front window and by the bar, catering to those who prefer perching. An old fireplace (no longer in use for fire, but still an attractive feature) sits at one end, adding to the sense of history. The lighting is soft – mostly wall sconces and classic pendant lamps – giving off a welcoming glow in the evenings. Décor is modest and authentic, with brewery mirrors, CAMRA awards, and perhaps a vintage map or painting of old Manchester on the walls. One thing’s for sure: it’s not a trendy or modern design; it’s the kind of interior where generations of patrons have left their mark in the gentle scuff of the floor and the polished patina of the bar top.

The ambiance depends a bit on the time of day, but it generally hits that sweet spot between lively and laid-back. On a weekday lunchtime, the pub buzzes with energy – you’ll hear the hum of friendly conversations as office workers chat over their midday meal and pint. It can get quite full at noon, with many tables occupied by regulars who know to arrive early to snag a seat. Despite the rush, the atmosphere remains civil and convivial; it’s busy but not chaotic, with an almost communal feel as many people seem to nod and acknowledge one another (a testament to the number of “regulars” who treat The Rising Sun as their canteen). Move into the after-work hours, and the vibe shifts to a more relaxed early evening pub scene. A mix of ages comes through the door: you might see a couple of suited professionals unwinding with ales, a few older gentlemen in their usual corner catching up on the day’s news, and perhaps a handful of tourists or shoppers who stumbled upon this hidden gem. Everyone mingles in the same small space, giving a democratic feel – it’s a slice of Manchester where different walks of life intersect over a love of good beer. There is often background music playing softly (typically classic rock or Motown – something easygoing), but it’s low enough that it never drowns out conversation. In fact, conversation is king here. The Rising Sun has a reputation as a place for good talk; you can easily strike up a chat with a stranger about the beer you’re drinking or the football scores, and the staff might chime in too if they’re not too busy.

By the time night falls, especially on Fridays and Saturdays, the pub can fill up again – not to a rowdy degree, but it gets a nice buzz. Because it closes on the earlier side for a city pub, it tends to attract those who are out for a quiet pint before heading home or moving on to a later venue. It’s decidedly not a stop for rowdy clubbers or stag parties; you’re more likely to encounter a few groups of friends having a last round and winding down their evening. The absence of loud music, large TVs, or other distractions means the vibe even at peak times is chatty and comfortable. You might hear laughter from a funny story being told at the bar, the thud of a pint glass being set down on a coaster, and the gentle murmur of multiple conversations blending into a pleasant din. If you’re someone who appreciates a pub where you can truly talk and listen, you’ll feel right at home. The air often carries the scent of whatever ale is most popular that night – a hoppy fragrance if it’s an IPA, or a slight malt sweetness if a stout is being poured. It’s the quintessential pub smell mixed with a hint of old wood and maybe the day’s lingering food aroma. All these sensory details contribute to an atmosphere described by one 1970s guide (and still true decades later) as “a good comfortable pub with a friendly atmosphere”. Indeed, it’s the kind of place where newcomers are made to feel welcome among the regulars, and there’s a general respect for the pub as a communal space.

On the topic of accessibility and inclusivity, The Rising Sun does as well as it can given its age and size. There’s no official step-free designation, but many will find entry and navigation manageable – especially via the Queen Street entrance, which is almost level with the street. The single-room layout means no internal stairs to worry about (unless heading to the toilets, which are tucked away and may have a step or two – typical of older buildings). The pub is dog-friendly as well (management asks that you let them know or come at non-food hours), so you’ll occasionally see a well-behaved dog napping under a table while its owner enjoys a pint. This adds to the homely feel; the sight of a contented pup and the clink of pint glasses is about as classic an English pub scene as you can get. If you prefer a bit of fresh air or have accessibility needs, the Lloyd Street entrance at the back might be useful – it opens near the rear of the pub and can be a slightly quieter spot to slip in and out, though it also has a small step. The staff, as mentioned, are helpful; they won’t hesitate to assist if someone with mobility issues needs a hand navigating a tight spot or carrying drinks to a table. One minor challenge is that when the pub is crowded, space is limited for wheelchairs or prams, but during off-peak times it’s quite comfortable. All in all, The Rising Sun’s atmosphere is warm, inclusive, and steeped in authenticity. It feels like a little haven amid the city’s bustle – a place where time slows down, the ale flows, and everyone is invited to join in the easygoing camaraderie.

Location & Nearby Attractions

Location-wise, The Rising Sun enjoys an enviable spot: it’s hidden in plain sight right in the heart of Manchester city centre. Situated at 22 Queen Street (a small side street that’s more of a quiet lane), it’s just a few steps from the bustle of Deansgate, one of Manchester’s main thoroughfares. In fact, if you didn’t know to look for it, you might stroll past the end of Queen Street without noticing this little pub tucked halfway up the cul-de-sac. The immediate area is often referred to as the business or financial district, given the cluster of offices and banks nearby, but it’s also rich in history and culture. Just outside the pub’s front door is Lincoln Square, where a statue of Abraham Lincoln stands – a nod to Manchester’s support of the Union during the American Civil War. From the Queen Street entrance, you can see the statue watching over the square, which gives a unique backdrop as you exit the pub. The pub’s back door on Lloyd Street places you near Albert Square and the grand Manchester Town Hall (currently under renovation but still an impressive sight). In other words, The Rising Sun is nestled amid some of Manchester’s key landmarks and attractions.

For visitors exploring Manchester, this pub makes for a great pit stop during a day of sightseeing. The beautiful John Rylands Library – a must-visit neo-Gothic library/museum – is only about a 2-minute walk away on Deansgate. Also within a short stroll is St. Peter’s Square, home to the Central Library and a major Metrolink tram hub (about a 5-minute walk). If you’re coming by tram, that’s your stop; from there it’s a straightforward walk along Lloyd Street toward the pub. Spinningfields, Manchester’s modern dining and nightlife quarter, is practically around the corner as well – its upscale bars and restaurants start just across Deansgate, so you could easily combine a visit to The Rising Sun with a peek at the trendy rooftop bars of Spinningfields (enjoy a craft cocktail there, then retreat to the old-world comfort of The Rising Sun for a proper pint!). Shoppers will find the high-end boutiques of King Street just a block away, and Manchester Arndale (the large shopping mall) is about 10 minutes on foot. Culture buffs might note that the Royal Exchange Theatre, housed in a historic building on St. Ann’s Square, is also within 5-6 minutes walk – a perfect distance to grab a pre-show pint. And speaking of shows, the Manchester Opera House on Quay Street is about 5 minutes away; more than a few theatregoers have discovered The Rising Sun as an ideal spot for a drink before or after a performance at the Opera House or the nearby Palace Theatre (the latter is a bit further, around a 15-minute walk or a quick tram hop).

Despite being centrally located, Queen Street itself is relatively quiet and tucked-away. This gives the pub a bit of a hidden-gem quality – you’re in the middle of the city, yet it feels like you’ve discovered a secret locals’ spot. It’s this combination of convenience and seclusion that many find appealing. You can easily include The Rising Sun in various Manchester itineraries: whether you’re doing a historic pub crawl (it’s featured on several heritage pub guides), following the footsteps of Victorian Manchester, or simply needing a break between museum visits, it fits right in.

In terms of accessibility via transport, the pub is very well connected. As mentioned, the Metrolink tram’s St Peter’s Square stop is close by, and Deansgate railway station is roughly 10 minutes walk (or reachable by a quick free bus hop). Manchester Oxford Road and Manchester Victoria stations are about 15 minutes on foot, and the main Piccadilly Station is around 20 minutes walking (or 5-10 minutes by taxi/tram). Numerous bus routes run along Deansgate and nearby John Dalton Street/Princess Street, so public transport is a breeze. If you’re driving, be aware that while you can approach Queen Street by car to drop someone off, there’s no dedicated parking. The nearest car parks include a multi-storey on King Street West or the Spinningfields parking facilities, but expect typical city centre parking fees. Given Manchester’s sometimes confusing one-way roads, many will find it easier to ditch the car and use transit. Cyclists might find bike racks in Lincoln Square or near Albert Square to lock up, though cycling in the city core can be hectic.

As for nearby pubs and attractions for those interested in pub hopping: just around the corner on Lloyd Street is The Nag’s Head, another characterful old pub (famously eccentric inside, worth a peek). A short walk will get you to Mr. Thomas’s Chop House on Cross Street – a Victorian pub/restaurant icon – or The Old Wellington by the Cathedral for some medieval pub atmosphere. But even with all these options, many locals hold The Rising Sun dear for its unchanging charm. It’s the kind of place you might use as a rendezvous point (“meet me at The Rising Sun, and we’ll decide where to go next”) and end up staying for a couple of hours because it’s just that comfortable. Whether you’re plotting out a tour of Manchester’s historic sites or looking to experience an authentic local pub amid your shopping spree, The Rising Sun’s prime yet tucked-away location makes it an easy and rewarding addition to your plans.

Overall Impression

The Rising Sun offers a slice of Manchester history wrapped in a cosy pub experience, delivering something increasingly rare in today’s pub landscape: authenticity. In a city brimming with flashy bars, trendy microbreweries, and themed venues, The Rising Sun stands out by simply being a great traditional pub. It doesn’t need to shout or gimmick to attract patrons – its reputation for quality ales, hearty food, and welcoming atmosphere does the heavy lifting. After spending time here, it’s easy to see why this pub has a loyal following and why it remains a beloved fixture in Manchester’s pub scene. The combination of its rich heritage (with legends of 1684 origins and the unique two-street layout) and its commitment to no-nonsense hospitality creates a genuinely memorable experience. You feel connected to the past as you sip a pint within walls that have seen centuries of beer and banter, yet everything is well-kept and comfortable for the modern-day visitor.

Of course, no pub is perfect for everyone. The Rising Sun has a few quirks and minor drawbacks – but these will matter differently to different folks. If you’re someone who craves late-night revelry, extensive cocktail menus, or high-volume entertainment, you might find this pub too quiet or too traditional. The early closing time and lack of late-night action mean it’s not the place to start a wild night out (nor to end one in the wee hours). Also, its size can be a double-edged sword: the intimate space is cosy, yes, but on a packed Friday you might find yourself standing shoulder-to-shoulder. Securing a table at peak lunch or 6 PM on a Friday might require a bit of patience or timing. And while the lunchtime food is delightful, the absence of an evening menu could disappoint those who stroll in hoping for dinner (it’s always a bit sad to see a hungry tourist come in at 7 PM, only to learn the kitchen closed hours earlier). However, these aspects are largely a function of the pub being true to itself – it knows what it is and doesn’t force anything that doesn’t fit its character.

For the pub enthusiast, the history buff, or the traveller seeking a true local pint, The Rising Sun is pretty near ideal. The overall impression it leaves is one of warmth and genuineness. You’ll likely remember the little details: the jovial landlord’s wisecrack, the superb flavour. of that Moorhouse’s ale you tried, the group of regulars chatting at the bar who made you feel included in the conversation, or the way the pub felt like a calm refuge just steps away from Manchester’s busy streets. It’s a pub that converts strangers into regulars – many a first-time visitor has ended up returning the next day, or making it a point to drop in every time they’re in town. In an era where many pubs chase trends or overhaul themselves beyond recognition, The Rising Sun favours a “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” philosophy, and it’s all the better for it.

The Rising Sun is a gem of a pub that encapsulates what a great British pub should be: friendly, flavourful (both in beer and in character), and full of stories. Whether you’re a Manchester local who somehow hasn’t ventured in yet, or a visitor eager to taste real ale in an historic setting, this Queen Street haven deserves a spot on your itinerary. Grab a pint of one of their well-kept ales, find a snug corner, and soak in the atmosphere – you’ll be part of a Manchester tradition that’s been thriving for centuries. And when you leave, don’t be surprised if you catch yourself already planning your next visit. The Rising Sun has a way of shining on in your memory, calling you back for another round of its simple, timeless pleasures.