The Old Monkey - Manchester - Pub Reviews

In the heart of Manchester city centre stands The Old Monkey pub, a prime example of a traditional British pub experience. Located at 90 Portland Street (on the bustling corner of Portland and Princess Street), this much-loved watering hole offers a warm welcome and a great atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. Among the best pubs in Manchester for those seeking no-nonsense charm, The Old Monkey sets itself apart with its friendly vibe, well-priced pints, and a rich blend of history and hospitality. Whether you’re after a hearty meal, a quality cask ale, or just a cosy spot to unwind, The Old Monkey delivers a taste of classic pub comfort right in the city centre.

The Old Monkey’s red-brick exterior on Portland Street exudes classic pub charm. Hanging flower baskets and traditional signage invite passers-by inside this Manchester city centre gem. The pub has been a fixture of the local scene for decades – in fact, it was Joseph Holt Brewery’s first new pub built in the city centre, opening in 1993 to great acclaim. Ever since, it has cemented itself as a Manchester favourite, often buzzing with life and listed among the city’s top pubs for its authentic atmosphere and value. From the outside and in, The Old Monkey promises the kind of traditional British pub encounter that feels like home for anyone stepping through its door.

Historical Charm and Décor

Stepping into The Old Monkey, you are immediately struck by its historical charm – even if the pub’s history isn’t as long as some of Manchester’s Victorian taverns, it certainly feels timeless. The building was constructed in the early 1990s on the site of an old beer house (the former Queen’s Arms), yet it was designed to echo the look and feel of a classic pub. Inside, dark wooden beams and panelling, brass fixtures, and a patterned carpet create a warmly traditional setting. The décor includes vintage photographs and local memorabilia adorning the walls, giving a nod to Manchester’s rich history. These touches, combined with ambient lighting from old-fashioned lamps, lend the space an inviting, lived-in ambience that could fool you into thinking the pub has been around for a century.

The pub spans two floors, each with its own character. Downstairs is the main bar area, typically abuzz with customers and the heart of the action on any given night. You’ll find a mix of high stools at the bar, comfortable leather booths, and cosy corner tables perfect for chatting with friends. Upstairs is a more relaxed lounge and function space – opened up during busy periods or reserved for private events and overflow. With soft couches and additional seating, the upper floor offers a slightly quieter nook for those who want to soak in the pub’s atmosphere from above. In fact, the upstairs windows provide a great view of the bustling Princess Street junction outside, allowing you to people-watch as you enjoy your pint. Overall, The Old Monkey’s interior strikes a fine balance between old-world pub charm and comfortable modern touches, making it an ambience where you immediately feel at ease.

Atmosphere and Clientele

One of The Old Monkey’s greatest strengths is its welcoming atmosphere and diverse clientele. This is a proper northern “boozer” in the best sense – unpretentious, friendly, and full of character. On any given day, you’ll encounter a healthy mix of patrons: jovial Manchester locals catching up over a beer, office workers relaxing post-work, and even curious tourists who venture in from nearby hotels to get a taste of a real British pub. The vibe is inclusive and comfortable, whether you’re a regular or a first-timer. In true pub fashion, strangers often strike up conversations and everyone is made to feel like a local within minutes.

The Old Monkey is rarely anything less than lively. The downstairs bar is usually buzzing with chatter and laughter during peak times, yet thanks to the pub’s layout, it never feels overwhelming. There are quieter corners and snug seating areas if you prefer a more low-key experience, especially on weekday afternoons. The pub prides itself on being dog-friendly too, so don’t be surprised to see the occasional four-legged friend dozing happily under a table – a testament to how homely and relaxed the environment is. Regulars describe The Old Monkey as a “decent little boozer” and often recommend it as a perfect place to start a night out in Manchester. Despite its city centre location, there’s a distinctly local, neighbourhood feel here: the kind of place where the staff might remember your usual order and fellow patrons will nod hello. In short, the atmosphere is one of down-to-earth camaraderie, making everyone from seasoned pub-goers to casual visitors feel genuinely welcome.

Food and Drink

No traditional British pub experience is complete without hearty food and a good pint, and The Old Monkey excels on both fronts. The pub offers a menu of classic pub grub that will satisfy any craving, from lunch through dinner. Chief among the favourites is the steak & ale pie, a signature dish here. This pie arrives with golden flaky pastry encasing tender, ale-braised beef, served with rich gravy – truly comfort food at its best (and perfect alongside a pint of bitter). Another standout is the fish and chips, featuring a generous fillet of fish fried in a crisp batter, accompanied by fluffy chips and mushy peas for that authentic touch. Lighter bites and midday options are plentiful too: a variety of sandwiches and baps (the classic BLT and a hearty chicken-and-bacon among them) are popular with the lunchtime crowd. You’ll also find juicy burgers, piping-hot jacket potatoes with fillings, and other pub classics like sausages and mash on the menu. Portions are satisfying, and the kitchen often runs special deals – for instance, certain weekdays might feature a discounted meal or a “pie and a pint” offer – underscoring the pub’s commitment to good value. With its focus on straightforward, tasty fare (including vegetarian options and daily specials in many cases), The Old Monkey’s food menu complements the traditional drinking experience perfectly.

Of course, a pub called The Old Monkey wouldn’t be complete without an impressive drink selection. As a Joseph Holt brewery pub, it serves a superb range of the brewery’s own ales and lagers alongside other popular brands. Beer enthusiasts will be pleased to find well-kept cask ales on tap – including Joseph Holt’s smooth Bitter and seasonal brews like their Mild (a dark, malty ale available year-round) – poured fresh from hand pumps in the bar. There’s also a rotating line-up of guest ales that keep things interesting; it’s not uncommon to see renowned favourites such as Timothy Taylor’s Landlord or Sharp’s Doom Bar featured on the pumps. If lager is more your style, The Old Monkey offers Holt’s own lagers like Crystal and Diamond (crisp, easy-drinking lagers) as well as a golden ale to round out the selection. In fact, the pub proudly serves the full range of Joseph Holt beers – from light pale ales to the stronger winter Sixex ale when in season – so there’s always something new to try for beer aficionados.

Hand-pulled cask ales on the bar at The Old Monkey, featuring Joseph Holt’s own brews alongside guest taps. Beer aside, the pub caters to all tastes with an extensive drinks menu. There’s a fridge stocked with bottled beers (everything from Budweiser and other global lagers to craft ale bottles) for those who prefer their beer from the bottle. A selection of wines and spirits is available as well, neatly displayed behind the bar – you can enjoy a glass of wine or a classic gin and tonic if that’s your preference. The Old Monkey has even expanded into cocktails: there’s a small but fun cocktail list, particularly focusing on gin and rum concoctions, so you can sip on a refreshing G&T or a rum punch for a change of pace. And for the cider lovers, the bar usually keeps a cider or two on tap (or bottled) – perfect in summer months when you want something chilled. With its combination of local ales, popular guest beers, and a bit of everything else, The Old Monkey’s drink selection ensures that everyone in your group will find something to enjoy. It’s the kind of place where a beer lover can savor a well-poured pint of bitter while their friend enjoys a fruity cocktail, and both will leave equally satisfied.

Entertainment and Facilities

Part of what makes The Old Monkey more than just a place to grab a drink is the range of entertainment and facilities it offers to keep patrons engaged. At its core, this pub is a social hub – and it provides plenty of ways to have fun with friends or fellow pub-goers. For those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition, The Old Monkey features a well-maintained dartboard in the corner, true to its traditional pub spirit. Regulars often gather around for a game of darts, and newcomers are always welcome to join in or cheer on; it’s an old-school touch that adds to the communal vibe. (There isn’t a pool table here, but the darts and conversation more than fill the gap.) The layout of the pub – with open areas near the bar and extra space upstairs – is well-suited for mingling and socialising, whether you’re standing with a pint discussing the latest football scores or seated in a booth catching up with old friends.

Sports enthusiasts will feel right at home as well. The Old Monkey is equipped with multiple TV screens for live sports, making it a popular spot to watch the big games. Premier League football matches draw an especially lively crowd, with supporters from various teams bantering good-naturedly as they watch the action unfold. You can also catch major rugby games and other sporting events here, all shown via Sky Sports and BT Sports feeds in high quality. The pub’s manageable size means that wherever you sit, you’ll likely have a good view of a screen when the game is on – but it’s still cosy enough that the sport doesn’t overwhelm the whole atmosphere for those less interested. During big matches, expect a rousing atmosphere with cheers, groans, and clinking glasses, truly capturing the communal spirit of Manchester’s sports fans.

Entertainment doesn’t stop at sports and darts. The Old Monkey also hosts a weekly pub quiz, usually on a week night, which has become a highlight for many regulars. It’s the perfect excuse to form a team with your mates, test your trivia knowledge, and enjoy a bit of friendly rivalry – all washed down with a pint or two. The questions cover a range of topics, and there are often small prizes or bragging rights for the winning team. In addition, the pub sprinkles in live music nights on occasion. These might feature local musicians or acoustic acts providing background tunes, adding to the jovial mood especially on weekend evenings. Keep an eye on their events board or social media for announcements, as the live music is usually occasional but always enjoyable.

One of the real standout features of The Old Monkey is its upstairs function room, which doubles as an events space. Not only can this room be hired for private gatherings (with free hire, which is a fantastic perk for those looking to host birthday parties or meet-ups), but it’s also home to the Trapdoor Comedy Club nights. Every month, this space transforms into an intimate comedy club where fantastic acts – from up-and-coming comedians to the occasional familiar name on the circuit – perform stand-up and entertain the crowd. These comedy nights have gained a bit of a cult following, offering something different beyond the usual pub fare and showcasing The Old Monkey’s commitment to lively entertainment. It’s quite a treat to enjoy a cold beer downstairs, then head up for a comedy show without leaving the venue. Between the quizzes, sports, darts, and comedy (and more), there’s always something happening at The Old Monkey to keep patrons engaged and coming back for more.

Pricing and Value

Value for money is a major part of The Old Monkey’s appeal. In an era when city centre prices can be steep, this pub manages to keep things affordable without compromising on quality. The pricing is very much in line with Joseph Holt’s reputation for pocket-friendly pints. You can expect most pints to cost around £4–£6, depending on the brew – with the standard Holt ales typically at the lower end of that range, and premium or guest beers a bit higher. These prices are notably reasonable for Manchester city centre, often a pleasant surprise for first-time visitors who might be used to paying more in the surrounding bars. The same goes for the food menu: most main meals are priced about £10–£15, which covers generous servings of pub classics that leave you full and happy. Lighter bites and sandwiches come in well under a tenner, making The Old Monkey a great spot for a budget-friendly lunch.

The pub also runs plenty of special offers and deals which add to the value. For example, there are often multi-buy deals on bottles or shots, and a Fizz Friday promotion where you can get a bottle of Prosecco at a steal. Seasonal promotions (like discounted craft ales, or a curry-and-pint night) pop up throughout the year, giving regulars even more incentive to stop by frequently. These deals mean you’re likely to spend less here than at many other Manchester pubs while enjoying an equally good, if not better, experience. It’s no wonder the place is often busy – people know they’re getting quality pints at a fair price. The Old Monkey proves that you don’t have to break the bank to have a good time in the city centre, and the combination of moderate prices with hearty portions and excellent beer keeps patrons returning. Whether you’re a student on a tight budget or just someone who appreciates a good bargain, you’ll find that The Old Monkey delivers excellent bang for your buck.

Customer Service and Reviews

A pub can have great beer and food, but it’s the customer service that often turns a one-time visit into a regular haunt. At The Old Monkey, the staff truly help elevate the experience. Bar staff and servers here are known for being friendly and efficient, striking that ideal balance between attentiveness and letting guests relax. You’ll rarely be left waiting long to place an order, even during busy periods, as the team works hard to keep pints flowing and tables cleared with a smile. They’re the kind who’ll greet you warmly at the bar, offer a recommendation if you’re indecisive about which ale to try next, and remember the regulars by name. This genuine hospitality adds to the pub’s welcoming vibe and has earned The Old Monkey plenty of praise in reviews.

Speaking of reviews, the pub enjoys a strong reputation among those who have visited. On TripAdvisor, it holds around a 4 out of 5 stars rating with hundreds of reviews, with many patrons commending the atmosphere, value, and service. Customers frequently highlight the staff’s friendliness – for instance, one reviewer described it as a “lovely proper bar” with friendly staff and a good range of drinks. Others speak highly of the quick service even when the pub is packed for a match or event. The Old Monkey’s combination of efficient service and down-to-earth Northern hospitality has clearly left a positive impression. Any establishment can have an off day, but by and large, this pub’s customer feedback is glowing. From local regulars who laud it as their go-to spot, to tourists who stumble in and note it was the friendliest pub they encountered on their trip, the consensus is that The Old Monkey makes people feel at home. The management also seems to take pride in maintaining these standards – you’ll often see the manager on the floor, chatting with patrons and ensuring everyone’s looked after, which speaks to the pub’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

In summary, customer service at The Old Monkey comes with a personal touch. It’s the kind of place where the bartender might crack a joke with you or inquire if you enjoyed your meal as they clear your plate. That approachable, cheerful service turns casual visitors into loyal patrons. Combined with the positive word-of-mouth and online reviews, it’s clear that The Old Monkey has earned its great reputation not just through pints and pies, but through the people working hard behind the bar.

Accessibility and Location

Situated in Manchester city centre, The Old Monkey benefits from an excellent location that’s easy to reach by public transport. The pub is only a short walk from both Manchester Piccadilly and Oxford Road train stations, making it convenient for those coming in by rail. Numerous bus routes run along Portland Street and nearby Piccadilly Gardens, so if you’re in Greater Manchester, chances are you can hop on a bus that drops you within a couple of minutes’ walk of the pub. The St. Peter’s Square Metrolink tram stop is also within walking distance, giving another quick option to get there from various parts of the city. In other words, whether you’re coming from across town or from out of town, getting to The Old Monkey is straightforward – one of the perks of its central location.

For those considering driving, be aware that parking is limited in this dense part of the city. The pub itself doesn’t have a car park, and on-street parking in the area can be scarce and usually paid. It’s advisable to use public transport or a taxi if possible. If you do need to drive, there are some pay-and-display parking bays on side streets and a few multi-storey car parks a few blocks away (such as the Chinatown or Oxford Street parking facilities), but you’ll have a short walk back to the pub. Luckily, most people won’t find this a problem given how well-connected the area is – and not having a car is liberating if you plan to sample the ale!

In terms of physical accessibility, the main entrance on Portland Street has only a small step, and once inside, the ground floor is relatively flat and open, making it reasonably accessible for those with mobility considerations. The bar is spacious enough to move around comfortably during quieter times, though it can get a bit tight on very busy evenings (as is typical for cosy pubs). The toilets are on the ground floor as well, which is convenient. The upstairs function room, however, is only reachable by stairs, so patrons who cannot manage stairs will want to stick to the lively downstairs area. On the whole, the pub’s layout and central locale make it a convenient choice. Being right in the city, it’s also easy to incorporate The Old Monkey into a night out – you can pop in for a pint while shopping in the day or include it as a starting point before exploring Manchester’s nightlife. The surrounding area is safe and well-lit, with plenty of other bars, restaurants, and hotels nearby. If you’re visiting Manchester, you’ll likely find yourself in this area anyway, so it’s easy to drop into The Old Monkey and recharge with a drink or meal amid your activities.

So why the Old Monkey?

With so many pubs in Manchester vying for attention, why does The Old Monkey stand out as a top choice? In a nutshell, it’s the combination of everything we’ve discussed: location, character, quality, and value. This pub encapsulates what people love about Manchester pubs and the broader British pub culture. It offers an authentic, traditional atmosphere that’s increasingly hard to find in the city centre – you walk in and immediately sense the history and community feel, yet newcomers are welcomed like old friends. The interior décor and overall vibe harken back to classic pubs of old, but The Old Monkey is very much alive in the present with its lively events and inclusive spirit.

Several key points make The Old Monkey a real gem. First, the ambiance and charm: it’s cosy without being cramped, historic in feel if not actual age, and full of personality. You can have a quiet chat or join in the revelry, making it suitable for all kinds of visits – be it a relaxed afternoon drink or a starting point for a big Saturday night. Second, the food and drink offerings hit the mark for quality and tradition. Where else in the city centre can you enjoy a homemade-style steak & ale pie that’s as good as grandma’s, and wash it down with an award-winning local ale at such reasonable prices? The range of beers (from cask ales to craftier options) and the satisfying menu mean that both beer enthusiasts and food lovers leave happy. Third, the pub manages to be entertaining and engaging without losing its pub soul. You have sports nights, quizzes, and even comedy shows, all under one roof, which keeps things fresh and gives you plenty of reasons to keep coming back. Yet it never feels like a gimmicky theme bar – it’s all organic to the pub’s identity as a community gathering spot.

Importantly, value for money is a huge factor. The Old Monkey proves that a prime location in Manchester doesn’t have to mean premium prices, and that’s a distinction many seasoned pub-goers appreciate. You get the sense that here it’s about honest pints and hearty food for fair prices, which is part of why it has such a loyal following. Finally, the warm service and community feel truly set it apart. Pubs are as much about people as pints, and the folks running The Old Monkey clearly understand that. The consistent friendliness, the familiar faces of content regulars, the laughter ringing from that darts game or quiz team – it all combines to create a place with heart. It’s the kind of pub where stories are shared, friendships are formed, and memories are made over the clink of glasses.

All these factors make The Old Monkey not just a pub, but a Manchester institution in its own right. It stands out as a pub that captures the best of British pub culture while remaining approachable to anyone who walks in the door. For anyone exploring the city or looking to experience local pub life, The Old Monkey offers a quintessential slice of Manchester hospitality.

If you’re in Manchester – whether you live here or are just visiting – put The Old Monkey on your must-visit list. Come in for a pint of real ale or a comforting meal, and experience first-hand why this pub has won the hearts of so many. With its traditional charm, friendly atmosphere, and top-notch food and drink, The Old Monkey promises a good time and a genuine welcome. Don’t just take our word for it – stop by The Old Monkey next time you’re in the city centre, grab a seat (or sidle up to the bar), and soak in the atmosphere of one of Manchester’s finest pubs. Cheers, and enjoy your visit!