The Ape & Apple - Manchester - Pub Reviews

The Ape & Apple’s brick-façade on John Dalton Street – complete with its cheeky pub sign and hanging flower baskets – hints at the pub’s blend of traditional charm and playful character. Situated just off Deansgate in Manchester city centre, The Ape & Apple is a Joseph Holt brewery pub that has become a local favourite for its welcoming atmosphere and great value. It’s frequented by a mix of friendly locals, after-work city professionals, and visitors, all drawn by the promise of quality pints and hearty food in the heart of town. Despite not being centuries old, this pub carries a solid reputation (around a 4.4/5 customer rating) and is known for delivering a warm, laid-back experience. Opening hours run from noon until late – generally 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM during the week (extended to midnight on weekends) – ensuring you can drop in for lunch, an evening pint, or a post-event nightcap with equal ease.

Opened in 1997 (in a converted former bank building) with Manchester United legend Denis Law himself pulling the first pint at the grand opening, The Ape & Apple may lack the ancient pedigree of some pubs, but it makes up for it with character and stories of its own. Even its name and iconography are part of the charm: the pub’s sign – depicting an ape perched on a beer barrel, holding an apple with a foaming pint by its side – was famously designed by a 10-year-old descendant of founder Joseph Holt, Jane Kershaw, who later became one of the brewery’s master brewers. The imagery is a playful nod to the biblical creation myth (the ape indulging in forbidden fruit and, as legend has it, discovering the joys of beer), setting a light-hearted tone before you even step inside.

Facilities & Entertainment

In keeping with its city-centre location, The Ape & Apple does not offer on-site parking – a minor inconvenience that most patrons won’t miss given the excellent public transport nearby. This isn’t the kind of pub where you’ll find pool tables or dartboards, either. Instead, entertainment here centres around its social events and convivial vibe. Sports fans will be pleased to know that despite earlier impressions, the pub does show live sports: in fact, The Ape & Apple is considered one of the great spots in Manchester to catch the big game, with Sky Sports and TNT Sports on multiple well-placed screens throughout the bar. Whether it’s Premier League football or a major boxing match, you’ll likely find it on here – though the arrangement of the TVs still manages not to overpower the pub’s traditional ambiance.

For more personal entertainment, there’s a classic jukebox in the corner (so you and your mates can put on your favourite tunes), and plenty of seating to settle in for conversation. A standout feature of the pub is its upstairs area, which functions as a large events space: head up to find a second bar, a dedicated stage, and additional seating. This floor is home to many of the pub’s special events (from comedy shows to private functions) and opens up the venue for bigger crowds. Just outside, you’ll discover a generously sized rooftop beer terrace – a pleasant surprise in this urban setting. This heated roof garden, with ample benches and tables, serves as the pub’s “beer garden”. It’s an inviting spot to grab some fresh air with your drink, especially in warmer months when the hanging baskets are in bloom and you’re a little removed from the bustle of the street. The roof terrace also doubles as a smoking area, keeping the interior smoke-free. Other conveniences include free Wi-Fi (so you can update friends or check the tram times), and the pub is family-friendly and dog-friendly – meaning it’s not unusual to see an early-evening family meal at one table and a contented pooch snoozing at the feet of its owner at another. In short, The Ape & Apple provides all the essentials for comfort and fun, focusing less on pub games and more on creating a space for good beer, conversation, and community events.

Food on Offer

The Ape & Apple serves up a menu of classic British pub fare – honest, hearty food that pairs perfectly with a pint. You’ll find all the staples here: think sausages and mash, cheese and onion pie, fish and chips, burgers, and more. The kitchen isn’t aiming for haute cuisine or trendy small plates; instead, they excel at the kind of traditional comfort food that satisfies. One of the most raved-about deals has been their long-running “two meals for £8” offer, which lets you tuck into dishes like those bangers-and-mash or a gammon steak with a friend for an almost absurdly low price. (Even if pricing has adjusted slightly in recent years, the principle remains – meal deals here are a bargain.) In fact, value is a big theme: most mains hover in the very affordable £5–£8 range, and portions are generous. Regulars know to look out for special promotions too – the pub often features weekday specials such as a “Burger and a Drink” deal on Tuesdays or a curry night midweek, which deliver a full meal (and pint) for a wallet-friendly set price. These rotating offers (displayed on chalkboards and menus) keep the menu interesting for repeat visitors and encourage trying something new.

Despite the focus on pub classics, The Ape & Apple isn’t stuck in the past when it comes to its menu. There are usually vegetarian and even vegan options available – for example, a veggie pie or a plant-based burger – ensuring that most diets can find something tasty. They also do lighter bites like sandwiches, jacket potatoes, or shareable bar snacks if you just want something to nibble on with your beer. And come Sunday, the pub embraces that most British of traditions: a Sunday roast. Roast dinners here are served with all the proper trimmings and have earned a bit of a following among those in the know (at least one reviewer has called the Sunday roast “fantastic,” which tells you it’s worth checking out). While the cuisine at The Ape & Apple won’t surprise you with avant-garde creations, it consistently delivers on quality comfort food. Everything is cooked fresh and served promptly, and what it might lack in pretension it more than makes up for in flavour and value. It’s the kind of reliable pub grub that leaves you full and happy, ready to enjoy another pint or two.

Beers on Tap

As a Joseph Holt establishment, The Ape & Apple is first and foremost an ale lover’s pub. The beer selection here highlights the best of local Manchester brewing, often featuring the brewery’s most popular cask ales as well as seasonal and guest offerings. At the bar you’ll typically find around 3 cask ales on hand-pump at any given time. These usually include Holt’s flagship Bitter (a smooth 4% session bitter that’s a true local classic) and other regulars like Two Hoots Golden Ale or a pale ale from Holt’s subsidiary Bootleg Brewery line. The pub keeps these cask ales in excellent condition – real ale enthusiasts frequently comment on how well-kept and fresh the pints are here. In addition, the full range of Holt’s bottled beers is stocked in the fridge (so if you fancy a stronger stout or one of their seasonal brews out of season, you can ask the bar staff), alongside the usual line-up of draught lagers, ciders, and popular beers for those who prefer something other than ale.

One of the joys for beer aficionados is the rotating selection: The Ape & Apple does introduce seasonal specials and occasional guest brews on rotation. For instance, in traditional fashion they’ll serve a proper cask Mild each May and bring out Holt’s potent winter ale Sixex in the run-up to Christmas. Don’t be surprised to see a guest tap from another local brewery pop up now and then as well – the pub isn’t strictly limited to Holt beers if something interesting is available. (Not long ago, visitors noted a couple of Vocation Brewery ales on offer, indicating the bar’s willingness to feature other craft brews when they complement the line-up.) This commitment to variety means there’s often something new to try each time you visit, alongside the trusty pints you might already love.

If you’re not sure what to choose, the knowledgeable bar staff are happy to help you navigate the taps. They can tell you what’s drinking especially well that day, offer a taste, or explain the differences between, say, the malty Holt’s Bitter and a hoppier guest IPA. Many patrons appreciate this guidance – it’s part of the reason the pub has a reputation for good service. Prices are very reasonable too (Holt’s ales tend to be cheaper than many craft beers in the city, often around £3–£4 per pint), which means you can sample a few different brews without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a CAMRA card-carrying ale enthusiast or just someone who enjoys the occasional lager, The Ape & Apple’s bar has you covered with quality and choice. And if beer isn’t your thing, they also stock a selection of wines and spirits, so you can still partake in the fun – but really, it’s the cask ale program here that truly shines and is not to be missed.

Price Range & Value

One of the strongest selling points of The Ape & Apple is its value for money. This pub firmly falls into the “££” mid-range affordability category, and by city-centre standards it might even be considered a bargain. Prices are refreshingly down-to-earth: most pints will cost you on the lower end of the £3–£5 range, especially if you’re opting for the house ales which are priced very keenly. Even for premium or craft beers, you’re unlikely to exceed a fiver. Food is similarly well-priced – the majority of main dishes come in well under a tenner (often around £6–£8 for a filling meal), and many are in the £5 range when on special offer. For example, you might get a large plate of fish and chips or a steak-and-ale pie with sides for roughly what you’d pay for a sandwich at a chain café. The portion sizes and quality make those prices feel like a real steal. It’s no wonder that “value” is a recurring theme in customer feedback; as one visitor summarised, the pub offers “great food at a reasonable price” in a very central location.

Beyond everyday pricing, The Ape & Apple doubles down on value through its promotions and deals. We’ve touched on the popular two-meals-for-£8 deal (a long-time favourite of regulars) and the various weekday specials – these kinds of offers mean you can often eat and drink for a fraction of what you’d spend elsewhere. A 2-course lunch deal during weekdays, a cheap curry night or fish Friday – such specials are frequently advertised. If you’re planning a visit, it’s worth checking the pub’s notice board or social media to see what’s on offer that day. Another aspect of value is there’s no pretentious upselling or hidden costs; service is generally informal (order at the bar), and any tipping is discretionary for exceptional service. Being a Joseph Holt pub, there’s a certain old-school philosophy of giving customers good honest value that still prevails. You can easily have a pint and a hearty meal here for under £15 total, which in the middle of Manchester is a terrific deal. Many patrons leave feeling that for the quality of the ale, the warmth of the atmosphere, and the fullness of their belly, they’ve gotten more than their money’s worth. In short, The Ape & Apple is proof that “affordable” and “quality” can go hand in hand, making it a go-to spot for budget-conscious pub-goers who refuse to compromise on experience.

Customer Service

Walk into The Ape & Apple and one of the first things you’ll likely notice is the friendly greeting. The pub’s staff consistently earn praise for their welcoming, down-to-earth attitude. In fact, the establishment has something of a “community pub” feel in the way staff and regulars interact – despite being right in the city centre, there’s a personal touch to the service. Bartenders are chatty and knowledgeable, and if they sense you’re new or indecisive, they’ll happily recommend a beer you might enjoy or explain what events are on that night. Patrons frequently compliment how attentive the team is, noting that whether you’re in for a quick after-work pint or a long weekend session, you’re made to feel comfortable and looked after. Little gestures, like remembering your last order or checking back to ensure you’re enjoying your meal, go a long way in making everyone feel like a valued guest rather than just another customer. The staff’s knowledge of the brews on tap is also a huge plus – as mentioned, they can guide you through the rotating cask ales, which adds to the experience for beer enthusiasts.

Of course, like any popular venue, The Ape & Apple isn’t immune to busy rushes. During peak times – say a Friday evening when the after-work crowd pours in, or the interval of a packed comedy night – the bar can get hectic, and service might slow down a tad. There have been occasional comments in reviews about a bit of a wait to get a round in when the pub is five-deep at the bar. However, these instances are relatively infrequent and are generally chalked up to the pub being so busy (a good sign in itself) rather than any lapse in effort. Even when rushed off their feet, the staff remain courteous and do their best to serve everyone in turn. If you visit at a quieter time, you’ll likely experience very prompt service – glasses cleared with efficiency, food delivered in a timely manner, and plenty of banter at the bar. It’s also worth noting that the venue is kept clean and tidy, which reflects on the staff’s diligence; despite high foot traffic, you’ll usually find the tables wiped down and the floor swept. The management here clearly cares about maintaining a good standard, and it shows.

Overall, the customer service at The Ape & Apple bolsters its already strong appeal. The combination of cheerful, helpful staff and an inclusive, convivial approach makes newcomers quickly feel like regulars. It’s telling that aggregate review sites highlight the “excellent service” as a key aspect of the pub’s identity. Whether it’s a friendly chat while you’re being served or the staff effortlessly handling a big crowd on quiz night, the human element at this pub is a big part of what turns one-time visitors into repeat patrons. Simply put, you can expect to be treated like a local – and in a busy city centre pub, that’s something rather special.

Events & Special Nights

If there’s one thing you won’t be at The Ape & Apple, it’s bored. This pub is renowned for its lively roster of events and special nights, which have become a cornerstone of its identity. Front and centre is the weekly comedy night – proudly touted as Manchester’s longest-running free comedy night, held every Wednesday upstairs. It’s a bit of a Mancunian institution. Each Wednesday evening, the upstairs function room transforms into a comedy club, hosting a mix of up-and-coming comedians and seasoned acts trying out new material. The atmosphere is electric – packed with laughter and energy as people crowd in for a good chuckle. Not only has this night drawn loyal local audiences, but it’s said that a few now-famous comedians got their start on this very stage, which only adds to the charm. The best part? There’s no entry fee – just grab a pint (or two) and enjoy the show. It’s a huge draw for the pub, often making Wednesday one of the busiest nights of the week.

Comedy aside, The Ape & Apple keeps things fresh throughout the week. Quiz night is a regular fixture – currently on Tuesdays there’s a popular speed quiz that turns the traditional pub quiz on its head (fast-paced trivia with buzzer apps, music rounds, and plenty of friendly competition). This brings in teams of students, coworkers, and trivia buffs vying for bragging rights and perhaps a few prizes. On many Mondays, you’ll find something rather unique: Salsa dancing sessions. Yes, the same upstairs room has hosted salsa classes on Monday nights, so you might hear Latin music drifting from the doors and see a few dancers showing off their moves. It’s an example of how diverse the entertainment can be – it’s not all about pints and punchlines; sometimes you can even get your dance on! By the end of the week, the pub often features live music as well. Fridays are known to occasionally bring live acoustic acts or bands (from local singer-songwriters to cover bands), adding a musical vibe to the start of the weekend. These music nights aren’t every single week, but they are regular enough and advertised in advance as “Live Music Night” – creating a fun, social ambiance on a Friday or Saturday.

Throughout the pub, there’s also a jukebox humming in the background on quieter nights, so patrons can choose the soundtrack when there isn’t a scheduled event. And let’s not forget major sports events: on big match days (like a Manchester derby or international tournament), the place can feel like a mini stadium with fans gathered around the TVs, cheering and groaning in unison. The management does a good job of balancing these occasions with the pub’s other identity as an entertainment venue. For instance, if a big football match coincides with comedy night, they’ll typically prioritise the comedy upstairs and have the match on downstairs – ensuring each crowd can enjoy their night without interference. The pub also hosts one-off special events, such as themed parties, holiday celebrations, or even improv theatre nights (an improv group has done “Murder Mystery” shows here, adding a bit of drama to the mix). The schedule evolves with the seasons, but the key is that there’s always something happening. Regulars often check the pub’s event board or website to see what’s coming up, be it a charity quiz, a special tap takeover by a guest brewery, or the ever-popular free comedy show. This constant rotation of events ensures that no two visits to The Ape & Apple feel exactly the same – an aspect many patrons love. It’s a pub that can be a quiet midday haven one day and the next night a buzzing hub of laughter or music. In summary, whether you’re into comedy, quizzes, dancing, live music, or just a lively pub atmosphere, The Ape & Apple’s event line-up has something in store for you.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Inside The Ape & Apple, you’ll find an atmosphere that strikes a delightful balance between traditional pub cosiness and vibrant city energy. The pub’s interior decor leans into classic pub style – you’re greeted by lots of dark wood panelling, a long wooden bar, and walls adorned with old photos and breweriana that give a nod to Manchester’s history. There’s even some quirky wallpaper and touches of character if you look closely (a recent refurbishment added fresh design elements without erasing the pub’s soul). Thanks to that 2025 revamp, the space is also brighter and more open than old-timers might remember – what used to be partitioned booths has been opened up into a more open-plan layout with a mix of low tables and high-top seating, making the ground floor feel roomy and social. Large doors open out to John Dalton Street, which on a nice day can be swung open to let in sunlight and a breeze. On the whole, the design manages to be comfortable and contemporary while still retaining a classic pub warmth. Little details like the row of hanging flower baskets out front, the engraved Joseph Holt mirrors, and soft leather bar stools invite you to relax and stay awhile.

The crowd and clientele add greatly to the ambience. The Ape & Apple is notably inclusive and welcoming – it’s the kind of place where suits from the nearby offices, shoppers taking a break, tourists, and lifelong locals all share space happily. On a weekday lunchtime you might see a table of older regulars chatting over their pints of bitter, while at an adjacent table a couple of university students split a cheap lunch deal; come early evening, local office workers filter in to unwind; and by event nights, you’ll have a diverse mix all laughing together at the comedy act. This fantastic mix of friendly locals, city workers, and visitors gives the pub a dynamic quality. Despite being in the busy city centre, it maintains a down-to-earth, unpretentious vibe – something often attributed to its brewery heritage and management. People talk to each other here. Don’t be surprised if you strike up a conversation with a stranger about the football score on TV or the taste of a new ale; it’s that kind of sociable place. The jukebox tunes (when playing) are usually classic rock or familiar hits at a low volume, just enough to create a background mood without ever drowning out voices. There’s a buzz of conversation most evenings, but it’s generally easygoing – except during big United vs. City matches or when a comedian has everyone roaring with laughter, at which moments the pub truly comes alive in a louder way.

The ambiance shifts nicely with the time of day and day of week. Daytimes can be relatively relaxed; you’ll find it a pleasant spot for a quiet pint or a casual lunch as sunlight comes in through the front and the city rushes by outside. In these off-peak times, The Ape & Apple can almost feel like a refuge from the hustle and bustle – you can tuck yourself in a corner with a newspaper or chat leisurely with friends. In contrast, nights with major events (quiz Tuesdays, comedy Wednesdays, etc.) transform the vibe to lively and packed. There is often standing room only during the most popular events, and the sound of laughter or cheering envelops the place. Even so, the mood remains friendly and inclusive; it’s lively but rarely rowdy or uncomfortable. The pub’s layout, spanning two floors plus the outdoor terrace, helps distribute crowds. If the main bar gets too full, you can often escape upstairs for a bit more elbow room (unless it’s also full of event-goers). When weather permits, the rooftop terrace offers an excellent escape – it’s surprisingly peaceful up there, with some greenery and picnic tables, making it a lovely spot to enjoy your drink away from the city noise. Many people don’t expect a quasi-beer garden in this urban setting, and it’s a highlight in summer to sip a pint under the evening sky. Even in cooler months, heaters and coverings make the terrace usable, and smokers appreciate having that area so they don’t have to stand out front on the pavement.

From an accessibility standpoint, The Ape & Apple does a commendable job given its historic building constraints. The main entrance is virtually level with the street (just a very small step), and there is a ramp/flat entry available, meaning wheelchair users can enter without issue. The ground floor bar area is all on one level, and there’s ample space between tables to manoeuvrer on most days (it can be snug during full capacity events, but staff and fellow patrons are usually helpful in making room). The pub is listed as having disabled access facilities, including an accessible toilet on the ground floor, so those with mobility challenges should find it accommodating for a meal or drink. The upper floor, however, is reachable only by stairs – something to note if you’re attending an event upstairs; currently there’s no lift, owing to the building’s layout. Nevertheless, the staff will do what they can – for example, if someone with a disability wants to attend the comedy night, they might reserve a spot for them on the ground floor and ensure they can still enjoy parts of it, or assist in any way possible. For families with prams or those with kids, the pub is welcoming: it’s child-friendly, especially during daytime hours. There are high chairs available and even a children’s menu (kids’ meals at very fair prices). Families often stop by on weekends or during school holidays for a bite to eat, and you’ll see youngsters made to feel at home. In the evenings, especially post-7pm, the crowd is mostly adults (as is typical in pubs), but the overall inclusive attitude persists. Also worth noting, dogs are welcome – as a dog-friendly pub, you can bring your canine companion, and you’ll often see a couple of friendly dogs lounging by their owners inside or on the terrace. Water bowls are usually available for them as well.

To sum up the atmosphere: The Ape & Apple manages to be cosy yet vibrant. It’s the kind of pub where on any given night you can find the space that suits your mood – a quiet corner for a chat, a stool at the bar for banter with the bartender, or the thick of the crowd near the big screen for a shared celebration of sport. The décor and layout successfully blend old-fashioned pub cosiness (wood panels, warm lighting, personal touches) with updates that prevent it from feeling dated or cramped. Cleanliness and comfort are clearly maintained priorities. And importantly, the pub retains that Northern hospitality vibe – a sense that everyone is welcome and nobody’s a stranger for long. Whether you’re navigating in a wheelchair, arriving with a baby stroller, or leading a puppy on a leash, the staff and regulars embrace you just the same, which speaks volumes about the pub’s character. The Ape & Apple offers an atmosphere where anyone can walk in and immediately feel like a local, and that might be one of its greatest strengths.

Location & Nearby Attractions

Nestled on John Dalton Street (address: 28–30 John Dalton St, Manchester), The Ape & Apple enjoys a prime location in Manchester’s bustling city centre. If you’re not familiar with the area, John Dalton Street runs between the Deansgate thoroughfare and Albert Square – which means the pub is literally steps away from Albert Square and the iconic Manchester Town Hall. This is fantastic for anyone visiting the Christmas Markets or events in Albert Square; you can easily pop over to the pub for a warm-up drink or a post-event meal. In fact, on busy market days, The Ape & Apple often becomes a haven for people looking to escape the crowds and relax with a pint. The street itself is named after the famed scientist John Dalton (there’s even a blue plaque on the pub’s exterior commemorating him), adding a touch of historical interest as you arrive. Just across the way, you’ll see the classical facade of the Manchester Art Gallery and the edge of St. Peter’s Square a short walk beyond, so you’re firmly in the cultural and civic core of the city.

Getting to the pub is very easy thanks to excellent public transport links. The St Peter’s Square Metrolink tram stop is roughly a 5-minute walk (about 400–500m) from the pub, so if you’re coming from other parts of Manchester or Salford by tram, that’s your stop. Numerous bus routes run along Deansgate, John Dalton Street, or nearby Portland Street, effectively surrounding the pub with bus options – including the free city centre shuttle buses (if you’re in town, look for the Metro shuttle routes M1 or M2 which loop through the centre; one of their stops is very close by). If you’re arriving by train, Manchester’s main stations like Piccadilly and Victoria are a bit of a walk (15–20 minutes) or a quick tram ride, but Deansgate rail station is only about 10–12 minutes on foot (or one tram stop away). Because of the central location, walking is often the best way to explore the area – the pub is easily reached on foot from most central landmarks. As mentioned, there’s no on-site parking and indeed very limited street parking on John Dalton Street (and much of it is metered or reserved). If you do drive, the nearest car parks would be the King Street West or Spinningfields garages a few blocks away. Generally, though, it’s simplest to leave the car at home when venturing into the city centre.

Once you’re at The Ape & Apple, you’ll find yourself well-placed to enjoy Manchester’s attractions. Albert Square (practically around the corner) often hosts festivals, markets, and events year-round – from the famous winter markets to food festivals and public screenings. The pub makes a great meeting point or respite during those happenings. A few minutes’ walk north takes you to the Royal Exchange Theatre, a renowned theatre housed in a grand former cotton exchange – perfect if you fancy a drink here before catching a play. Head a bit further and you’ll hit the upscale King Street area, known for boutique shops and eateries, as well as historic pubs like Mr. Thomas’s Chop House – though many would argue The Ape & Apple offers a more laid-back, local feel than those. If you walk west for 5 minutes, you’ll enter Spinningfields, the modern glitzy district of offices, bars, and restaurants (with highlights like the John Rylands Library, a stunning neo-Gothic library open to visitors). In other words, The Ape & Apple can be a starting point, midpoint, or ending spot for a day out in Manchester. It’s centrally located enough that you can “drop your pin” there and have museums, shopping streets (Market Street and the Arndale Centre aren’t far), galleries, and nightlife all in a 10–15 minute radius.

For those exploring local pub culture, The Ape & Apple is also conveniently situated as part of a city centre pub crawl. It’s close to a number of other notable pubs – for instance, the historic Old Wellington and Sinclair’s Oyster Bar by the cathedral are about 10 minutes’ walk, and closer by you have other Joseph Holt pubs like the Crown & Anchor or The Old Monkey, as well as the classic Britons Protection near St. Peter’s Square. You could easily include The Ape & Apple on a tour of Manchester’s traditional pubs. Finally, if you’re staying in a city centre hotel, odds are you can walk to the pub or have a very short cab ride. Many hotels in central Manchester (from the Midland to newer spots like Motel One or the Premier Inn on Portland Street) are within half a mile. The location really couldn’t be more convenient – it’s smack dab in the middle of things, yet thanks to John Dalton Street being slightly less touristy than, say, the Printworks area, the pub retains a nice local vibe. So whether you need a breather from shopping, a casual stop amid sightseeing, or just a solid local pub to anchor your night out, The Ape & Apple’s locale has you covered.

Overall Impression

The Ape & Apple stands out as a well-rounded and thoroughly enjoyable pub that captures much of what people love about Manchester’s drinking scene. It may not have the centuries-old pedigree or ornate Victorian architecture of some other establishments – remember, it’s a relative newcomer opened in the late ’90s – but it makes up for it in spades with its character and offerings. In many ways, The Ape & Apple epitomises the ideal modern British pub: it blends old-fashioned hospitality and pub cosiness with a modern, vibrant line-up of beers and events. You get the sense that it’s a pub that welcomes everyone and has a little something for everyone too. Want a quiet pint of perfectly kept ale at lunchtime? Sorted. Looking for a cheap, tasty meal before catching your train? No problem. Craving a lively night of laughter or testing your trivia knowledge? They’ve got regular comedy and quizzes. In each scenario, the pub delivers reliably – a warm welcome and a great time as the brewery itself promises.

Of course, no place is perfect. The Ape & Apple’s few minor quirks are largely byproducts of its popularity and city-centre nature. When it’s packed to the gills on a Wednesday comedy night or a big match day, expect a bit of noise and a short wait at the bar – it can get crowded and lively, which might not suit someone seeking a quiet, contemplative drink at those times. Also, those looking for pub games like darts or pool will have to entertain themselves with conversation or the evening’s event, as this pub favours social gathering space over game equipment. And while the building itself is full of character, if your idea of the perfect pub is one that’s frozen in time from the 1800s, you might not get that here – instead, you’ll get a mix of historic charm and modern touches. But truly, these are small caveats in what is an overwhelmingly positive picture. The occasional slower service during an unexpected rush is easily forgiven when you consider the overall value and friendliness on offer. For most patrons, the consistent quality of the beer, the affordability, the friendliness of staff, and the fun atmosphere far outweigh any momentary inconveniences.

In the tapestry of Manchester’s pub scene, The Ape & Apple has firmly woven itself in as a local favourite and a must-visit for visitors. It’s frequently cited as a great example of a Joseph Holt pub done right – where the brewery’s ethos of good beer, fair prices, and community spirit really comes to life. After spending time there, it’s easy to see why it enjoys a loyal following. There’s a genuine community vibe; people smile, talk, and laugh here in a way that makes the big city around it feel a little more close-knit. The pub “ticks all the boxes,” as one review put it – you can pop in for a quick one or settle in for the night and feel equally at home. By blending the old and the new effortlessly, The Ape & Apple manages to be a pub for all occasions. Whether you’re a real-ale aficionado seeking your next great pint, a traveller hunting for an authentic local watering hole, or a group of friends wanting a fun night out without blowing the budget, this pub hits the sweet spot.

The Ape & Apple is well worth a visit for anyone who finds themselves in Manchester. It’s a pub with a heart and a sense of humour, a place where you can enjoy the simple pleasures of a good beer and good company. From its ever-rotating ales to its longest-running comedy night, it has unique features that set it apart, all while keeping the no-nonsense warmth of a proper pub. Many who come here once end up returning – and indeed, it’s easy to imagine The Ape & Apple continuing to thrive as a beloved fixture on the Manchester pub circuit for years to come. In a city famed for its friendly pubs, this one truly holds its own as a favourite, and it should be on your radar whenever you’re looking for a great pint and a great time in Manchester.