Sadlers Cat - Manchester - Pub Reviews

Few Manchester pubs come with a community-built story like Sadler’s Cat. I’ve dropped in more than once for the Cloudwater brews and the courtyard vibe - and here’s why it’s one of the most authentic hangouts in the NOMA district.

Name: Sadler's Cat
Location: Sadler's Yard, Hanover St, Manchester, M60 0AB
Phone: +44 161 806 1524

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM

• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Rating:
★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Facilities & Entertainment:

• Parking: No parking available onsite; however, street parking is nearby.

• Darts & Pool Table: No darts or pool tables, but the pub’s charm lies in its outdoor seating and relaxing ambiance.

• Live Sports: No live sports shown, but the focus is more on the community and craft beer experience.

Food on Offer:
The Sadler's Cat is known for its carefully curated menu that focuses on locally sourced ingredients. While the food menu is somewhat limited, small plates and bar snacks are quite popular. Expect seasonal dishes, cheese boards, and hand-crafted bar snacks, often featuring unique local produce like artisanal cheeses and charcuterie platters.

Beers on Tap:
The Sadler's Cat prides itself on offering a rotating selection of craft beers. The beers mainly come from local Manchester breweries like Cloudwater Brew Co. There’s also a selection of guest ales, stouts, and lagers from other microbreweries. They frequently feature seasonal beers, ensuring variety for regular patrons.

Price Range:
Food and drink prices are mid-range (££). You can expect to pay around £5-7 for a pint of craft beer, and food typically ranges from £8-15 for light bites and platters.

Customer Service:
Customer service is frequently praised for its friendly and attentive nature. Visitors appreciate the knowledgeable staff who are always eager to offer beer recommendations. Although the pub can get busy during peak hours, staff generally maintain a warm and welcoming atmosphere, even during high foot traffic times.

Events & Special Nights:
The Sadler's Cat doesn’t host regular quiz nights or live music but does host occasional events, such as beer tastings and craft workshops. These are usually tied to local Manchester culture or the brewing community, providing patrons with a unique experience.

In-Depth Review:

Located in the creative and growing NOMA neighbourhood, The Sadler's Cats Pub has an inspiring story behind it. Built “by the people, for the people,” the pub was constructed with the help of local volunteers through a series of free workshops. This effort gives the pub an authenticity and warmth that many other pubs lack. Its distinct wooden interior, hand-crafted by the community, gives it a cosy, welcoming vibe, making it a true reflection of Manchester’s collaborative spirit.

The clientele is diverse, but The Sadler's Cat tends to attract craft beer enthusiasts and young professionals from the nearby tech and business sectors. It’s also popular with locals seeking a laid-back atmosphere. With an open courtyard and outdoor seating, it’s a great spot for sunny days and socializing in the city’s rare bursts of warmth.

Inside, the space feels intimate without being cramped, with simple, rustic furnishings. The large windows create a relaxed, bright atmosphere during the day, while at night, the lighting and vibe shift to something a little more intimate.

Accessibility is good; there is space for wheelchair access, although the cobbled streets around the NOMA area might pose a challenge for some. The pub is also dog-friendly, which adds to its charm, and you’ll often see locals with their pets in tow, especially in the outdoor area.

If you’re visiting, don’t miss trying some of their Cloudwater specials or guest brews, as they’re always evolving. Their cheese boards are also a local favourite, perfect for sharing with friends over a pint. Sadler's Cats connection to the community, combined with its relaxed, unpretentious vibe, makes it a standout in the Manchester pub scene. While it could benefit from expanding its food menu, this minor shortcoming is easily overlooked by the overall experience it offers.

Written by: Pub Reviews Team
Visit basis: Personal visits, community insight and beer tastings