The Shakespeare - Manchester - Pub Reviews

The Shakespeare’s black-and-white timbered exterior on Fountain Street in Manchester city centre stands out with centuries-old character amid its modern surroundings. The Shakespeare Pub (16 Fountain Street, Manchester, M2 2AA) is a historic pub known for blending traditional charm with contemporary vibrancy – particularly famed for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional cask ales. Although the current building was reassembled here in the 1920s, the site’s pub legacy actually dates back to 1721. In fact, much of the pub’s façade and ornamentation originated from a 17th-century tavern in Chester that was transported to Manchester in 1928, a unique history that contributes greatly to its old-world charm. It’s a popular haunt for a diverse clientele – from after-work city professionals and local regulars to tourists seeking out a classic British pub experience – all drawn by the unique combination of well-kept real ales, hearty food, and the lively social scene inside. The pub currently holds a solid customer rating (around 4.0/5), reflecting a positive reputation for atmosphere, food, and service. Opening hours are 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Monday to Thursday, 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM on Friday and Saturday, and 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM on Sundays.

Facilities & Entertainment

The Shakespeare offers a cosy, no-frills setting with a focus on traditional pub pleasures and some modern twists. Being located in the heart of Manchester, there is no on-site parking available – a standard situation for city-centre pubs – so visitors typically arrive by foot or public transit (more on that below). You also won’t find a dartboard or pool table here, as the pub’s entertainment energy is channeled in other ways. Live sports are a big part of The Shakespeare’s appeal: multiple screens (newly and discreetly installed during a recent refurbishment) are on hand to show live matches, making it a popular spot for sports fans, particularly football supporters. On big game days, the atmosphere can get electric with cheers and groans as crowds huddle around the TVs. Crucially, when the game’s not on, those TVs blend into the background, so the pub can maintain a more traditional, conversation-friendly vibe the rest of the time. In this way, The Shakespeare manages to cater to sports enthusiasts without turning into a full-time sports bar.

For more low-key fun, the pub has started introducing live music nights as well. Many weekends feature local singers or bands performing in the bar – for example, a rotating “Live Music Fridays” series has brought in everything from acoustic duos to up-and-coming indie acts. These events give the pub a dose of nightlife and entertainment beyond just televised sports, yet still keep things approachable and in tune with the pub atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where one week you might find a crowd watching a Premier League match, and the next week a guitarist strumming away in the corner – a versatile vibe that keeps regulars engaged.

The Shakespeare also boasts a function room upstairs that can accommodate around 50 people. This space is available for private hire and special occasions – whether it’s a birthday party, a work gathering, or even a business meeting. (Thanks to those hidden TVs and a flexible layout, the venue can easily switch from cosy pub to informal conference room when needed.) While there isn’t a dedicated beer garden or large outdoor patio, on nicer days you might see a few patrons standing with their pints outside the front, watching the world go by on Fountain Street. Inside, you’ll find the comforts that matter: a real log fire crackles away in cooler months, filling the pub with warmth and that faint, pleasant aroma of a wood-burning fireplace. Overall, The Shakespeare’s facilities are geared toward creating a warm, communal environment – it may lack arcade machines or pub games, but between the sports, music, and the general buzz of conversation, there’s never a dull moment.

Food on Offer

The Shakespeare serves up a concise menu of classic British pub fare – the kind of hearty, no-frills food that pairs perfectly with a pint. Think along the lines of beer-battered fish and chips, comforting pies, and juicy burgers as mainstays. At lunchtime, the kitchen draws a steady flow of customers looking for a solid midday meal, and it delivers with filling plates that hit the spot. While the exact menu offerings can change and detailed menus aren’t always posted online, you can expect the usual pub staples done well. For instance, if you’re craving something traditional, you might opt for a plate of bangers and mash or a steaming steak-and-ale pie, whereas lighter bites like sandwiches or jacket potatoes are often available for those in need of a quick snack with their drink.

Importantly, the menu is inclusive enough to cater to most diets. There are usually vegetarian options – perhaps a veggie burger, a hearty nut roast, or a fresh salad – and often a vegan dish as well, so non-meat-eaters won’t be left hungry. The chefs here aren’t aiming for ultra-fancy gastro-pub innovations, but rather comfort food executed properly. Many patrons praise the quality considering the reasonable prices (more on that in the next section), noting that the food is tasty and satisfying, just as you’d hope from a trusty pub kitchen.

One standout culinary offering at The Shakespeare is the Sunday roast. In true British fashion, come Sunday the pub serves a traditional roast dinner with all the trimmings. Regulars have begun to rave about this roast – it arrives as a generously portioned plate featuring succulent roast meat (or a nut roast for vegetarians), golden roast potatoes, seasonal veggies, Yorkshire pudding, and lashings of gravy. It’s the kind of hearty, comforting meal that can round off your week on a high note. Be warned: the Sunday roast is popular and can sometimes sell out by late afternoon, so if you have your heart set on it, it’s wise to turn up on the earlier side of Sunday lunch.

In addition to the classics, the pub has recently spiced up its food lineup with some new additions following its refurbishment. They’ve introduced shareable small plates – great for grazing over a few drinks or for groups that want to sample a bit of everything. And notably, The Shakespeare now opens its doors early with a breakfast menu (serving from 8 AM daily) for the morning crowd. So you can even start your day here with a traditional English breakfast or other morning staples, which is a rare find among pubs in the area. Families will appreciate the dedicated children’s menu as well, making it a family-friendly spot for a casual meal. All in all, The Shakespeare’s food offerings strike a pleasant balance between pub tradition and modern touches, ensuring that whether you’re after a quick bite, a hearty dinner, or a leisurely Sunday feast, you’ll find something to hit the spot.

Beers on Tap

Beer enthusiasts will feel right at home at The Shakespeare. This pub prides itself on its selection of cask ales, and it’s often cited as a highlight of the visit here. As part of the Greene King family of pubs, The Shakespeare usually features a couple of the brewery’s well-known house ales – for example, it’s common to find Greene King IPA or the malty Abbot Ale on the hand-pulls. However, the bar doesn’t stop at the standard offerings. Regularly available on tap are some beloved British classics such as Tetley Bitter – a traditional English ale known for its balanced, easy-drinking taste – and Timothy Taylor Landlord, the iconic pale ale praised for its crisp, slightly citrusy notes and consistent quality. These choices show the pub’s commitment to keeping true Yorkshire and Lancashire brews on the menu, which many real ale fans in the North will appreciate.

Beyond the regular lineup, The Shakespeare keeps things interesting with rotating guest ales and seasonal brews. On any given week, you might spot a hand-pump clip for a local Manchester microbrew or a renowned craft ale from further afield. Recent rotations have included pints like Brightside Brewery’s “The Mancunian” (a hoppy local ale) and the much-loved Titanic Plum Porter, as well as guest appearances from stars of the UK craft scene such as Thornbridge Jaipur IPA. This revolving door of guest beers means there’s often something new to try for the adventurous drinker, alongside the reliable staples for those who prefer their familiar favorites. The bar staff are quite knowledgeable about what’s on tap, too – don’t hesitate to ask them what’s new or for a recommendation, as they’re usually happy to offer a little taste or description to help you decide.

Importantly, the pub takes good care of its beer. Many a real ale aficionado has noted that The Shakespeare knows how to keep a pint in prime condition. The cask ales are stored and served properly: you can taste the freshness in each pour, a strong indicator that the lines are cleaned regularly and the turnover is high enough to keep the beer from ever getting stale. Each pint comes with that just-right cask ale temperature and carbonation, evidence that the cellar practices here are solid. For those who aren’t big ale drinkers, fear not – The Shakespeare also offers the usual range of other beverages. There’s a selection of lagers on draught (for example, you might find Carlsberg or Birra Moretti, among others), a wine list covering the basics, and a full bar of spirits if a gin and tonic or whisky is more your thing. Non-alcoholic options are available too, including 0% beer on tap in line with modern trends. But truly, if you come to The Shakespeare, it’s worth indulging in at least one of their well-kept ales – it’s a big part of the pub’s identity and a point of pride for the team.

Price Range & Value

By Manchester city-centre standards, The Shakespeare falls into a comfortable mid-range (££) price category. In other words, enjoying a night out here won’t break the bank – and many patrons comment that the combination of quality and location makes it quite good value for money. A pint of real ale at the bar typically costs on the order of £3 to £4, depending on the brew (with some standard beers toward the lower end of that and stronger or craft imports at the higher end). These prices are about average for central Manchester, and happily a bit cheaper than you’d pay in cities like London. Most main dishes on the food menu land in the £10-£12 range – for example, a full fish and chips or a big burger with sides will be around that price point, which customers find very reasonable given the hearty portions and tasty cooking. Lighter bites and starters come in well under that, so you can easily grab a sandwich or some loaded fries for just a few quid.

One of the best deals that really showcases The Shakespeare’s value is the Thursday night “Cask Ale Club.” Every Thursday, pints of cask ale are discounted to around £2.60 per pint – a throwback price that’s hard to find in the city these days. This isn’t some half-pint sample size either, it’s a proper pint of quality ale. Real ale enthusiasts absolutely love this night, as it allows them to enjoy their favorite brews at nearly bargain rates. Even for casual visitors, it’s a great excuse to try a new ale (or two) without worrying about the cost. Needless to say, Thursdays tend to be quite popular and can get busy as people flock for the cheap pints, but the friendly vibe makes it worth it.

Aside from the ale club special, drinks overall are reasonably priced and comparable to other pubs in the area. House spirits and mixers, for example, follow the usual pub pricing (you might pay around £5-6 for a gin and tonic, depending on the gin), and there are often promotions on certain beers or drinks, especially during weekday afternoons. The value for money at The Shakespeare is frequently highlighted in customer reviews – you get what you pay for, and perhaps a bit more, given the rich atmosphere and history on offer. There aren’t any sneaky service charges or tourist traps here; it’s honest pub pricing across the board. Tipping is welcome but not obligatory, as is customary in UK pubs. In summary, whether you’re coming for a quick budget-friendly pint on a Thursday, or sitting down to a full dinner and drinks, The Shakespeare delivers a satisfying experience at a fair price. It’s one of the reasons this pub has maintained a loyal following over the years – people feel their money is well spent when they leave, full and happy.

Customer Service

Walk into The Shakespeare and you’ll likely be greeted with a warm, Northern welcome – it’s the kind of place where the staff’s friendliness helps set the tone right away. The pub may be part of a larger brewery chain, but it has the heart of a local, and the team behind the bar seems to take pride in that. Regulars often note that the bartenders and servers here are approachable and good-humored, quick with a smile or a bit of banter as you place your order. If it’s not too hectic, they won’t hesitate to chat about the ales on tap or share a recommendation for something to try, especially if they sense you’re a beer enthusiast. That knowledgeability – particularly about their cask ales – is a big plus. Staff members can tell you the differences between the brews, offer you a taster if you’re unsure, and generally convey that they know their stuff when it comes to what they’re serving.

Efficiency is another strong suit of the team, which becomes very apparent during busy periods. The Shakespeare can get quite crowded at peak times (think Friday evening rush or when a major football match is on), but even with a packed bar, the staff manage to keep things flowing smoothly. They’re adept at handling a rush of orders, maintaining a quick service pace so you’re not left waiting forever for your pint, and they do it all with a calm and upbeat attitude. You’ll see empty glasses cleared away promptly and the bar area kept tidy, even when three-deep with customers. If you order food, it typically arrives in a reasonable time frame and with a friendly “enjoy your meal!” despite the hustle and bustle.

Of course, like any popular pub, there are moments when you might wait a tad longer – for instance, if you turn up on a packed Thursday night during Ale Club or at halftime of a big match, you should expect a bit of a queue at the bar. But those instances are generally the exception rather than the rule. The overall feedback on service here is very positive, with many patrons specifically praising how the staff cope with the crowds while still being polite and attentive. It’s not uncommon to see managers pitching in during rushes, delivering food to tables or helping pour pints, which is always a good sign of a well-run establishment. Another thing visitors appreciate is that the staff remain welcoming to newcomers – even if you’re not a regular face, you won’t feel like an outsider. In fact, plenty of first-timers have commented on how they were treated like a local from the moment they arrived. This blend of quick, professional service and genuine friendliness really underpins the atmosphere at The Shakespeare. It’s one of those pubs where the people behind the bar contribute just as much to the experience as the pints in front of you, often turning casual visitors into repeat customers simply by making them feel at home.

Events & Special Nights

True to its community pub spirit, The Shakespeare hosts a variety of events and special nights that add flavor to the weekly calendar. The marquee event – as mentioned earlier – is the Thursday “Cask Ale Club.” Every Thursday evening, the pub puts its real ales in the spotlight with that generous £2.60 per pint promotion, effectively creating a mini beer festival vibe each week. This night has become a social highlight for local ale lovers. By early evening, you’ll see groups of friends and CAMRA-types gathering around the bar, eagerly discussing the day’s offerings and perhaps debating the merits of a stout vs. a pale ale. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed – it’s all about enjoying good beer and good company. If you’re an ale enthusiast, Thursday is definitely the night to drop in and sample something new (and chat with fellow beer fans while you’re at it). Even if you’re not a beer connoisseur, the positive energy on Ale Club night is infectious, making it a fun time to be at The Shakespeare.

In addition to the ale-centric Thursdays, The Shakespeare has been cultivating a reputation for live music events. In recent times, it’s not unusual to find live music on a Friday or Sunday night, featuring local talent. These aren’t rowdy concert-style affairs, but rather informal gigs that fit the pub setting – think singer-songwriters, acoustic covers, or a small band playing classics and crowd-pleasers. The pub has hosted everything from upbeat cover bands to solo artists, adding a toe-tapping backdrop to your Friday pints. One week you might catch a soulful acoustic guitarist serenading the crowd, and the next a lively trio playing pop and rock tunes. The schedule can vary, so it’s worth checking The Shakespeare’s social media or notice board to see what’s coming up. Live music nights tend to draw a nice crowd and can really elevate the ambiance, turning an ordinary evening into a memorable one with just the addition of some great tunes. The best part is these music nights are typically free – just grab a drink, find a spot, and enjoy the show as part of your pub experience.

Perhaps the most intriguing events at The Shakespeare are those that play on its storied history and ghostly lore. Embracing its reputation as a haunted pub, The Shakespeare has been known to host the occasional “Paranormal Night”. These events delve into the spooky tales associated with the pub – including the legend of its resident ghosts. According to local legend (and as reported in the press), the pub is haunted by the spirit of a young barmaid who met a tragic end on the premises over a century ago, and by the remorseful chef who took his own life thereafter – with some even claiming the old rope marks from that incident are still visible on an overhead beam. During a Paranormal Night, you might hear staff or guest storytellers recount these eerie stories, give a tour of the pub’s nooks and crannies, or even invite a paranormal investigator to share findings. It’s all done in good fun, of course, and it offers a really unique way to experience the pub. Imagine nursing a pint while hearing ghost stories exactly where they supposedly happened – it’s a thrill that appeals to history buffs and ghost-hunters alike.

Aside from these regular or themed nights, The Shakespeare also gets festive for holidays and big city events. On occasions like St. Patrick’s Day or during Manchester’s various festivals, the pub often joins in the celebrations with themed decor or special menu items (green beer, anyone?). And while it’s not a dedicated sports bar every day, when a major football tournament or local derby match is on, the whole pub effectively transforms into an event venue – complete with a charged atmosphere, team colors worn by many patrons, and spontaneous pub-wide chants for the home team. Quiz nights are not a staple here as far as regular scheduling goes (some other pubs focus on weekly quizzes, whereas The Shakespeare leans more into beer and music), but keep an eye out as they have occasionally run trivia nights or charity quiz events on quieter weekday evenings. The pub’s management seems open to trying new things and engaging the community, so the lineup of events can evolve.

In summary, there’s usually something happening at The Shakespeare beyond just pints and chatter. Whether it’s the beloved Thursday ale night, an upbeat live band on the weekend, or a dive into ghostly history, these events and special nights enrich the pub’s already vibrant character. They give both regulars and visitors extra reasons to stop by – as if the great beer and atmosphere weren’t enough!

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Inside The Shakespeare, the atmosphere strikes a delightful balance between historic cosy and lively urban buzz. The moment you step through the door, you’re greeted by the sight of dark wooden beams, leaded glass windows, and other touches that immediately speak to the pub’s age and heritage. Despite the building’s actual assembly in the 1920s, it genuinely feels like a step back in time – many of the carved woodwork details and the black-and-white timber framing were salvaged from the 17th-century Chester tavern, giving the interior a Tudor-esque character. The recent refurbishment has tastefully added to this charm: you’ll notice sections of exposed brick walls and a collection of Shakespeare-themed prints and vintage photographs adorning the walls, nodding to both the pub’s namesake and its long history. The furnishings mix traditional pub aesthetics with comfort – there are plush, cushioned seats in rich colors alongside sturdy wooden stools and chairs. In one corner, a brick fireplace houses a crackling log fire on chilly days, which not only warms the room but adds a warm glow that makes the pub feel especially snug on a winter evening.

The ambiance in The Shakespeare can vary wonderfully depending on the time and day, but it always remains inviting. On a weekday afternoon or early evening, you might find the mood to be quite relaxed: a handful of locals quietly chatting over pints, a couple of shoppers or tourists resting their feet with a drink, and perhaps soft background music playing at a low volume. During these off-peak hours, the pub is an ideal spot to actually appreciate the details – the old ceiling beams, the patterned carpet, the etched glass bearing the pub’s name – and to have a leisurely conversation. Come after-work hours, the energy picks up as city workers pour in, giving the place a pleasant buzz of conversation and laughter. It never loses that cosy feel, but you’ll definitely sense the transition from a quiet pub to a vibrant social hub as more people fill the space.

When live sports are on – say a Manchester United or City game being broadcast – the pub shifts into a different gear: the excitement is palpable, patrons pack in shoulder-to-shoulder, and the sound of cheers or groans at every close play creates a charged, communal atmosphere. It can get noisy, certainly, but it’s an exhilarating kind of noise if you’re part of it. Interestingly, despite the sometimes raucous sports nights, The Shakespeare doesn’t devolve into a rowdy free-for-all. The traditional setting almost imposes a level of respectful behavior – it’s lively and loud, but good-natured. Strangers become mates for a night, clinking glasses when a goal is scored. On evenings with live music, you’ll experience yet another flavor of atmosphere: people tapping their feet or singing along to familiar tunes, the pub lights dimmed just slightly to create a “performance nook” for the musicians, and an overall feeling of merriment that music so often brings. In all these scenarios, one thing holds true: the pub feels alive with the people in it, and yet retains an underlying warmth and camaraderie that makes everyone feel welcome.

The clientele is as diverse as Manchester itself. On any given night, you might spot a table of older regulars who have been coming here for decades, not far from a cluster of university students enjoying pints (especially on cheap pint night), alongside a few tourists snapping photos of the distinctive interior, plus the usual mix of professionals and shoppers. This mix of ages and backgrounds creates a very inclusive vibe – nobody looks or feels out of place. The Shakespeare is the kind of pub where a backpacker could wander in solo and end up in a friendly chat with a group of locals at the bar, or where a family might stop in for lunch and be sitting next to a couple of die-hard ale enthusiasts debating brewery merits. It’s a true community melting pot, which is part of the charm.

In terms of layout, The Shakespeare is a medium-sized pub by city standards. The main bar area is on the ground floor and is broken up into a few sections by the arrangement of furniture and support beams, creating a sense of snug corners and alcoves rather than one big hall. This is great when it’s less crowded, as you can find a little corner table to call your own. When the pub is full, those nooks all pack out, and it becomes standing-room-only in some areas. There is additional seating upstairs, which is sometimes opened during busy periods or used as a restaurant area and overflow for diners. The upstairs, when open, retains the classic feel but is a bit quieter and away from the main bar hustle. Do note that when the pub gets very busy (Friday nights, big matches, etc.), it can be difficult to find a seat at all – not uncommon for popular city pubs. Many patrons don’t mind standing with their drinks; just be prepared to do that if you arrive at peak times. If having a table is important to you, try coming a bit earlier in the evening or at off-peak hours to snag one. The original architectural elements mean the interior isn’t a plain box; there are a few narrow passageways and steps to be aware of, but it’s all part of the character.

Now, regarding accessibility, The Shakespeare does a decent job considering its age. The main entrance on Fountain Street has only a small step (practically level with the sidewalk), so wheelchair access into the ground floor is possible without much trouble. Inside, the ground level is all one floor, making it feasible to maneuver to the bar and seating areas – though when it’s crowded, navigating through tightly packed groups can be challenging for anyone. Importantly, the pub has an accessible restroom on the ground floor and has made sure the doorway is wide enough for wheelchairs, which is a thoughtful inclusion in a historic pub. This means that guests with mobility issues can comfortably enjoy the main bar area. The upper floor, however, is only reachable by stairs (there’s no elevator/lift), so any events or seating up there won’t be accessible to those who can’t do stairs. It’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning a private function or seeking a quieter spot upstairs – check with the staff, as they might be able to reserve a suitable ground-floor space if needed. The staff, by the way, are very helpful and will gladly assist – whether it’s carrying drinks to your table to save you a trip, or accommodating any other special needs where possible.

The pub is family-friendly during the day – children are allowed with adults until early evening (around 5 PM). It’s not a rambunctious sports bar during those hours, so you’ll occasionally see families enjoying a late lunch or an early dinner. High chairs might be available, and the new kids’ menu makes it easier to bring the little ones. As for four-legged friends, dogs are welcome too (as is common in many British pubs). It’s not unusual to see a well-behaved dog curled up under a table while their owner enjoys a pint, especially in the afternoon – water bowls are usually available on request.

One thing to note is the lack of a dedicated outdoor beer garden – a fact that some smokers or sun-seekers might care about. Smoking is of course not allowed indoors, so smokers will pop out the front. There isn’t much seating out front on the pavement (just the street and sidewalk of Fountain Street, which is moderately busy with foot traffic), but people do stand outside with drinks in nice weather. You’ll be literally steps from the city bustle, which can be its own form of “people-watching entertainment.” If you prefer a pub with a large outdoor terrace, The Shakespeare might not be your first pick; however, its indoor atmosphere more than compensates for that in cooler months.

In sum, the atmosphere at The Shakespeare is one of a classic, cosy pub that can rev up into a lively meeting spot as the occasion demands. It’s steeped in history and character – you feel it all around you in the decor – yet it’s not stuck in the past, as the happy chatter, clinking glasses, and occasional guitar riff remind you that this is a pub very much enjoyed in the present. And commendably, the pub makes efforts to be as accessible and accommodating as it can within the constraints of its old architecture. Whether you’re coming in a wheelchair, with a baby stroller, or with a dog on a leash, the staff will do their best to make space and welcome you in. It’s this combination of ambience and hospitality that leaves many visitors with the feeling that The Shakespeare isn’t just a pub – it’s a little slice of Manchester’s living history where everyone’s invited to share a story or two.

Location & Nearby Attractions

The Shakespeare enjoys a prime location in Manchester’s city centre, which is a big part of its appeal for both locals and visitors. Situated at 16 Fountain Street, it’s tucked just a block away from the bustling Market Street shopping area and the iconic Piccadilly Gardens. In fact, if you’re out shopping at the Manchester Arndale or along Market Street, The Shakespeare is only a short stroll away – making it a perfect stop to rest your feet and wet your whistle after a retail excursion. The pub is literally in the shadow of the old Lewis’s Department Store building (now home to a massive Primark), and it’s surrounded by offices, shops, and other city landmarks. This central positioning means the pub is extremely easy to reach via public transport. The Market Street Metrolink tram stop is about a 2-minute walk from the pub (around the corner, near Primark), which connects you to multiple tram lines across the city. Also within a short walk (under 5 minutes) is Piccadilly Gardens, a major hub for buses and trams – so dozens of bus routes and all tram lines are accessible from there. If you’re coming by train, Manchester’s main stations are not far either: Manchester Piccadilly Station is roughly 10 minutes’ walk (or a quick free bus ride) to the east, and Manchester Victoria Station is about 10-12 minutes’ walk to the north, making The Shakespeare a convenient meeting point if you’re coming into the city by rail.

For those driving into town, bear in mind that, like most city centre venues, parking can be a challenge near The Shakespeare. There is no dedicated car park, and street parking on Fountain Street and surrounding roads is limited and usually time-restricted (or reserved for loading). If you do need to drive, the best bet is one of the multi-storey car parks in the vicinity – for example, the NCP car park on King Street West or the Manchester Piccadilly Plaza parking garage – both are within a 5-10 minute walk. They’re not cheap, but they’ll spare you the hassle of circling the narrow streets looking for a spot. Alternatively, many visitors opt to use a taxi or rideshare to get to the pub, which is feasible given the central location (just mention “Shakespeare pub on Fountain Street” and any local cabbie will likely know it, or use the exact address for Uber/Bolt). Cyclists will find some bike racks along nearby streets as well, although cycling in the city centre can be busy; if you’re on a bike, be mindful of pedestrian zones around Market Street.

Being in the heart of Manchester, The Shakespeare is surrounded by plenty of attractions and things to do. If you’re looking to make a day of it, you can easily plan around a pub visit. For instance, Manchester Art Gallery – a wonderful, free museum with an extensive collection of paintings and decorative arts – is just a 3-minute walk from the pub. Spend an afternoon browsing art and then pop into The Shakespeare for a pint and early dinner. If you’re interested in history and architecture, the Manchester Town Hall and Albert Square area (with the beautiful Central Library) are about 10 minutes’ walk away, offering stunning neo-Gothic architecture; note that the Town Hall itself has been under refurbishment for some time, but the area is still worth a look. The Royal Exchange Theatre, known for its in-the-round stage and top-notch productions, is also about 5-7 minutes on foot – theatre-goers have been known to drop by The Shakespeare for a pre-show drink, given the convenience.

For the shopping enthusiasts, besides the aforementioned Market Street and Arndale Centre (Manchester’s large indoor mall), there’s the upscale King Street boutiques and the Northern Quarter indie shops both within easy reach. The Northern Quarter, which is the city’s hip creative district filled with street art, record stores, and quirky cafes, begins just a few blocks north of Fountain Street – you could easily wander its graffiti-lined streets and then meander down to The Shakespeare for a traditional pint, giving yourself a real taste of Manchester’s modern and historic sides in one outing. If you fancy a bit of a pub crawl, The Shakespeare can be a starting point or mid-point, too. In one direction (towards St. Ann’s Square and Exchange Square) you have historic pubs like The Old Wellington and Sinclair’s Oyster Bar about 10 minutes away, which are notable for their Tudor architecture and history (they’re actually even older, but were moved and restored near the Cathedral). In the other direction towards Portland Street, you have classic pubs like The Grey Horse or The City Arms. So, you’re well positioned at The Shakespeare to explore Manchester’s pub landscape – several noteworthy watering holes are within walking distance if you’re the type to sample multiple historic pubs.

Also worth noting, if you happen to be visiting around the holiday season, Manchester’s famous Christmas Markets typically sprawl through the city centre and one of the clusters of market stalls is often just around the corner on Market Street or in St. Ann’s Square. The Shakespeare can offer a refuge from the cold with a mulled wine at the bar in those winter months, making it a nice complement to the outdoor festivities. In the summer, the pub’s central location means you’re never far from the city’s summer events – whether it’s a music festival at Castlefield Bowl (a bit further out but still walkable or a short tram ride), or just the open-air performances and street food markets that pop up around town.

In essence, The Shakespeare’s location is as central as it gets, giving you easy access to transportation and a wealth of Manchester attractions. It serves equally well as a meeting point for friends coming from different parts of the city, a stop on a tourist itinerary, or simply a convenient drop-in while you’re already in town shopping or sightseeing. And despite being in the thick of it, once you’re inside nursing a pint, you’ll feel a world away from the bustle – until you step back out and all the city’s offerings are right there at your feet.

Overall Impression

The Shakespeare Pub manages to deliver a truly special pub experience by seamlessly combining the best of Manchester’s pub tradition with just the right touches of modern city life. It’s not just the beers or the building or the service – but the combination of all these elements that makes The Shakespeare stand out as a beloved establishment. On one hand, it offers the authentic charm that pub enthusiasts crave: a rich history (dating back centuries, with a remarkable backstory of being moved beam-by-beam from Chester), a cosy historic interior, and a devotion to quality cask ales that is increasingly hard to find in an age of trendy bars. On the other hand, it doesn’t feel stuck in time – it’s a living, breathing local pub that pulses with the energy of modern Manchester. Whether it’s the cheerful crowd on match night, the strumming of a guitar on a music night, or the clink of glasses among coworkers during happy hour, The Shakespeare is very much a part of the contemporary city scene. This blend of old and new gives it an appeal that cuts across generations and tastes.

There’s a lot to love here. Beer aficionados will be hard-pressed to find a better-kept pint in the city centre at this price point, and the rotating guest ales mean there’s often a pleasant surprise on tap. History buffs will appreciate the architectural quirks and the stories that come with them – and might even catch themselves imagining the journey those wooden beams have been on, or get goosebumps from the ghost tales. Casual pub-goers will simply enjoy the warm, welcoming environment, the hearty food, and the sense that they’re in a place with character (as opposed to a sterile chain pub or bar). The staff’s friendliness and the camaraderie among patrons can turn a simple visit into a memorable social experience. Moreover, the pub’s location and pricing make it an accessible treat – it’s neither hard to get to nor hard to afford, so it remains an egalitarian kind of pub where university students, office workers, tourists, and lifelong Mancunians can all raise a glass together.

Of course, like any establishment, The Shakespeare isn’t without its minor quirks or downsides, and it’s worth being aware of them. The very qualities that make it popular – central location, great atmosphere, special deals – also mean it can get very crowded at times. If you only enjoy pubs when they’re quiet and half-empty, you’ll need to pick your visiting time carefully (e.g. mid-afternoon or a non-game weekday). At peak capacity, it can be a bit of a squeeze, and getting a table or even a spot to stand might test your patience. Similarly, the lively ambiance might not suit those looking for a tranquil pint and a book in the corner; on a roaring Saturday, this isn’t the tranquil library-corner type of pub. Another note is the lack of certain amenities some might expect – for instance, there’s no parking lot (plan ahead if driving) and no outdoor garden to lounge in. If you’re a fan of pub sports like darts or pool, you won’t find them here, as The Shakespeare’s entertainment is of a different stripe (beer, music, conversation, sports on TV). But these aren’t so much flaws as they are traits – results of the pub’s location and focus – and for the vast majority of visitors, they hardly detract from the overall positive experience.

In the grand scheme, The Shakespeare remains a true gem in Manchester’s pub landscape. It’s one of those places that consistently offers more than the sum of its parts: not just a pint, but a well-kept pint in a centuries-old pub; not just a meal, but a hearty plate in a historic setting; not just service, but a genuine smile and a bit of local lore along with it. The recent refurbishment has only enhanced what was already there – ensuring the pub will continue to thrive and delight patrons for years to come, without losing its soul. Many who visit The Shakespeare leave with fond memories, be it of an excellent ale they tried, a friendly chat with a stranger at the bar, or simply the ambience of that charming timbered room bustling with life.