The Wharf - Manchester - Pub Reviews

Today we strolled along Castlefield’s canal basin into The Wharf - Manchester’s waterside retreat where 12 hand‑pulled ales, crackling fires and sun‑drenched patio chatter pair with generous plates of pub‑classic comfort for a relaxed, family‑and‑dog‑friendly escape.

Name: The Wharf

Location: 6 Slate Wharf, Castlefield, Manchester, M15 4ST

Phone: 0161 220 2960

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 12 PM - 11:00 PM

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

• Sunday: 12 PM - 11:00 PM

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5)

Facilities & Entertainment:

• Parking: Yes, nearby parking available

• Darts & Pool Table: No

• Live Sports: Occasionally hosts live music events but does not typically show sports

Food on Offer: The Wharf provides an extensive menu with options for various tastes, from lighter bites to hearty main dishes. Popular items include British classics like fish and chips and Sunday roasts, and their meals are well-regarded for quality and portion sizes. The menu caters to a wide range of dietary needs.

Beers on Tap: The pub has 12 handpumps that offer a rotating selection of real ales and ciders, including regulars like Brunning & Price Original and Weetwood Cheshire Cat. There’s a focus on both local brews and guest ales, appealing to fans of diverse beer styles.

Price Range: £££ – Pricing leans toward the higher side, with main dishes around £10-£20, though the quality of food and drink often justifies the cost.

Customer Service: Generally praised for friendly and attentive service, with staff noted for being both efficient and knowledgeable about the menu and beer selection. Feedback indicates staff handle busy times well, although peak times can lead to some waiting.

Events & Special Nights: Live music is occasionally featured, but The Wharf is more of a social pub rather than an events-focused venue. During warmer months, the large patio area is particularly popular, creating a lively evening scene.

In-Depth Review

Set on the picturesque Canalside in Castlefield, The Wharf is an impressive, multi-level pub with characterful architecture and a distinctly welcoming vibe. Part of the Brunning & Price chain, The Wharf combines the charm of a traditional English pub with a more modern, spacious layout. Its outdoor patio along the canal basin is a major draw, especially on sunny days, offering scenic views where patrons can relax with a drink in hand.

The atmosphere here is relaxed and family-friendly, with a mix of patrons that includes young professionals, families, and locals. Dogs are welcome, adding to the inclusive vibe, and there are accessible areas for those with mobility concerns. Inside, cosy areas with real fires create a warm feel, making it an inviting choice in colder months as well.

The Wharf’s 12-strong selection of hand pumped ales and ciders is a significant feature, appealing to those who appreciate a variety of craft and real ales. Regular options include Brunning & Price Original and Weetwood Cheshire Cat, with additional guest ales rotated frequently to keep the selection fresh. The well-curated drink list also includes wines, spirits, and cocktails, catering to a wide range of tastes.

The food menu spans from classic pub fare to more refined dishes, including standout items like fish and chips, hearty pies, and generously portioned Sunday roasts. The quality of ingredients and attention to detail are often highlighted by patrons, with many noting the balance between value and quality, despite prices being on the higher side compared to typical pub fare.

Overall, The Wharf’s strengths lie in its scenic location, warm and inviting ambiance, and a high-quality menu that offers something for everyone. While it could potentially benefit from more regular entertainment options, it succeeds in being a laid-back, family-friendly pub with a strong emphasis on good food and drink, set against the beautiful backdrop of Castlefield’s historic canals.

Reviewed by: Pub Reviews Team