Discover Manchester’s Top 10 Craft Beer Pubs

Manchester’s craft beer culture is vibrant, blending historic charm with innovative brewing. Here’s a detailed look at the city’s top pubs and taprooms, where you can enjoy some of the best craft ales:

Piccadilly Tap

• Location: Gateway House, Piccadilly Station Approach, M1 2GH

• Why Visit: Just a stone's throw from Piccadilly Station, Piccadilly Tap is known for its convenient location and impressive range of craft beers. The pub features both local brews and international imports, with rotating taps offering something new every visit. Highlights include IPAs, stouts, and ciders on draft. Their outdoor seating is a bonus for sunny days.

Port Street Beer House

• Location: 39-41 Port Street, Northern Quarter, M1 2EQ

• Why Visit: A pioneer in Manchester’s craft beer scene, Port Street Beer House is a must-visit for beer aficionados. Its ever-changing menu showcases a carefully curated selection of local, national, and international beers, often including rare and limited editions. The cosy, multi-room space is perfect for an evening of exploration.

Cloudwater Brewery Taproom

• Location: Unit 9, Piccadilly Trading Estate, M1 2NP

• Why Visit: Cloudwater is one of the UK's most acclaimed breweries, known for its bold, hop-forward beers. The taproom offers a chance to try their freshest releases straight from the source, including their signature IPAs and seasonal specials. The minimalist, industrial space adds to the authentic brewery experience.

The Marble Arch Inn

• Location: 73 Rochdale Road, M4 4HY

• Why Visit: This historic pub, housed in a stunning Grade II-listed building, features sloping mosaic floors and a timeless charm. The Marble Arch serves beers from Marble Brewery, with a focus on quality cask ales. Their "Marble Pint" is a local favourite. The food menu, offering hearty pub classics, pairs perfectly with the beer.

Track Brewing Co. Taproom

• Location: 5 Sheffield Street, M1 2ND

• Why Visit: Tucked away near Manchester Piccadilly, Track’s taproom is a vibrant space to enjoy their hop-forward, juicy IPAs and experimental brews. Known for their community-focused ethos, the brewery often collaborates with other craft producers. The taproom's relaxed vibe makes it a popular spot for beer lovers.

Sadler’s Cat (formerly The Pilcrow)

• Location: Sadler’s Yard, Hanover Street, M60 0AB

• Why Visit: Sadler’s Cat, located in the heart of the NOMA district, is a community-built pub offering a curated selection of local craft beers. The pub champions Manchester’s brewing scene, with a rotating line-up of ales and lagers. Its quirky design and outdoor seating area make it a standout destination​.

Bundobust Manchester

• Location: 61 Piccadilly, M1 2AG

• Why Visit: This unique venue combines Indian street food with an eclectic range of craft beers. Bundobust’s menu is entirely vegetarian, with dishes like okra fries and paneer tikka, paired perfectly with their carefully selected beer list. Expect local brews alongside rare imports​.

The Smithfield Market Tavern

• Location: 37 Swan Street, M4 5JZ

• Why Visit: This Blackjack Brewery taproom is a cornerstone of Manchester’s craft beer community. The pub serves a mix of Blackjack’s own brews and guest beers from around the UK. The welcoming, community-driven atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and enjoy quality beer​

Beer Nouveau

• Location: 75 North Western Street, M12 6DY

• Why Visit: Focusing on historic and heritage beers, Beer Nouveau offers a unique drinking experience. Their taproom is housed in a converted railway arch, providing a quirky backdrop for tasting their experimental brews. Expect to find beers made from forgotten recipes alongside modern twists​

57 Thomas Street

• Location: 57 Thomas Street, M4 1NA

• Why Visit: Run by Marble Brewery, this intimate bar focuses on serving the freshest pints possible. The stripped-back interior highlights the beers, with a rotating selection of Marble’s cask and keg offerings. Their small plates menu is ideal for pairing with a pint​.

Manchester’s craft beer pubs are as diverse as the city itself, offering everything from historic charm to cutting-edge brews. Whether you’re seeking a relaxed pint or a deep dive into brewing innovation, these 10 pubs are sure to satisfy. Explore and enjoy the vibrant beer culture Manchester has to offer!