The Best Student Bars and Nightclubs in Manchester
Manchester is one of the most popular student cities in the UK, attracting people from all over the world. With great universities, diverse cultural attractions and plenty of nightlife offerings, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. For students looking for a great night out, Manchester has some of the best student bars in the country. From the spacious Kro Bar in the heart of the Student to the ever-popular Walkabout, Wetherspoons, Yates, O’Neills and Bierkeller, there is a wealth of options to choose from!
Top Student Bars
Kro Bar
Source: @krobar.mcr
Step into the welcoming embrace of Kro Bar, a hidden gem across from the vibrant University of Manchester’s Students’ Union. Housed within a breathtaking Grade II listed building, this Danish bar and café transports you to a world of Nordic charm. Proudly serving Danish delicacies and beverages, Kro Bar presents an exciting line-up of gig nights, quiz events, and uproarious comedy nights. Embodying the essence of a traditional Danish village pub, “Kro” encapsulates the values of excellent food, delightful brews, and genuine hospitality. Whether you crave scrumptious snacks or hearty meals, Kro Bar caters to all palates, complemented by an impressive selection of quality ales. At Kro Bar, be ready to savour “Good Food, Good Drinks, Good Times” in one enchanting setting.
Walkabout Manchester
Source: @walkaboutprintworks
Step into Walkabout Manchester and immerse yourself in the ultimate bar experience. Whether you’re seeking a laid-back evening, an unforgettable night out, or a sports lover’s paradise, this place has it all.
For sports enthusiasts, Walkabout is the undisputed home of live sport. Savour refreshing cold pints and mouthwatering burgers while catching every moment of the action on massive HD screens strategically placed throughout the bar. From Football to Darts and F1 Racing, you’ll never miss a second of your favourite games.
But that’s not all – Walkabout is renowned for its legendary parties. No matter the occasion, there’s always a reason to celebrate here. Elevate your night to VIP status with our exclusive packages, guaranteeing you’ll be at the centre of attention. With its vibrant atmosphere and top-notch offerings, Walkabout Manchester is the go-to spot for an unforgettable night on the town.
Wetherspoons
Source: @ukwetherspoons
Wetherspoons is a beloved Manchester bar renowned for its unbeatable “Spoons prices”, drawing in a diverse crowd of students, young professionals, and even retirees seeking an affordable and enjoyable night out. Despite its budget-friendly approach, Wetherspoons excels in providing top-notch service and quality. Its food and drink offerings consistently receive rave reviews, while the chain’s commitment to sourcing local and sustainable ingredients adds to its appeal. Named after its founder’s kind-hearted teacher, the quirky backstory adds a touch of charm to the establishment. Whether you’re looking for a casual gathering spot or a place to unwind, Wetherspoons ticks all the boxes with its winning combination of affordability and excellence.
Yates
Source: @yatesmanchester
Yates in Manchester is a true gem in the heart of the city, conveniently located between China town and the vibrant Canal Street’s gay village. Its strategic position, just a short stroll from Piccadilly train station and facing the National Express coach station, makes it easily accessible to locals and visitors alike.
What sets Yates apart is its versatility as a chameleon-style venue, catering to all tastes and moods. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast looking for unmatched live viewing experiences or a food lover seeking fantastic dishes, Yates has you covered. Yates embodies the essence of a great bar – a place where diverse experiences blend seamlessly to create an unforgettable time for anyone who walks through its doors.
O’Neill’s Printworks
Source: @oneills_printworks
O’Neill’s Printworks in Manchester is a place where the good times are guaranteed and the craic is always top-notch! This inviting bar is the ultimate spot to unwind with friends, offering an array of great value pub food served all day, every day. With a lively atmosphere, you can catch live music performances every weekend and immerse yourself in a range of thrilling sporting events on 7 TV screens, including a massive 78-inch screen. The bar’s unique feature lies in its ability to show up to 3 sports events simultaneously, ensuring you never miss any action. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, O’Neill’s Printworks is here to create unforgettable moments, leaving you with lasting memories of a truly fantastic time. So, come on over and let the banter flow as freely as the drinks, while enjoying the best sports coverage and uplifting live music. O’Neill’s Printworks promises an experience like no other!
The Bierkeller Manchester
Source: @manchesterbierkeller
The Bierkeller Manchester is the ultimate destination for a fantastic night out in the heart of the city. This exclusive party venue, nestled in the vibrant Printworks, offers a thrilling experience with its four unique bars spread across two floors.
Beer enthusiasts will be in paradise at the Bavarian-themed Bierkeller Bar, boasting an impressive selection of both local and international brews served in pints, steins, or even their Bavarian-style Haus Beer. But the fun doesn’t stop there! The Shooters Sports Bar is the perfect spot for sports lovers, offering an array of pints, pitchers, and beer towers, alongside hand-mixed cocktails and fine wines.
With over 20 screens, including large projectors and a supersized LED screen, you won’t miss a moment of the action, whether it’s a thrilling match or a lively event. Additionally, The Bierkeller caters to all tastes, featuring an Around the World Bar where you can explore a fantastic range of drinks imported from various corners of the globe.
For a night filled with fun, games, delicious drinks, and a buzzing atmosphere, The Bierkeller Manchester stands out as the ultimate go-to bar in the city, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Top Student Nightclubs
Depot Mayfield
Source: @depotmayfield
Depot Mayfield stands out as one of Manchester’s premier nightclubs, offering a unique and captivating experience to party-goers. Housed in a historic former railway station, the club’s transformation into a 10,000 capacity venue is a testament to its versatility and commitment to art, music, and culture.
Retaining its industrial heritage with raw concrete floors, exposed brick, and impressive iron struts, the venue exudes a distinct and authentic atmosphere. Its five interconnected spaces can accommodate events of any scale, from intimate private parties to grand pop-up festivals.
With a rich history and an array of diverse events hosted, including Manchester Pride Live, The Warehouse Project, Escape to Freight Island, and Backyard Cinema, Depot Mayfield has earned its reputation as a sought-after destination for music and culture enthusiasts. Whether it’s live music, conferences, product launches, or even film and production sets, Depot Mayfield delivers an unforgettable experience at the heart of Manchester’s vibrant nightlife scene.
42’s
Source: @42snightclub
42’s, formerly known as 42nd Street, stands out as one of Manchester’s premier nightclubs for an exceptional reason – it’s fuelled by a genuine passion for music. Over its impressive 22-year existence, this iconic club has been a cherished spot for both legendary and up-and-coming Manchester musicians, creating a rich musical history that few venues can rival.
Unlike many typical bars and clubs run by business-minded individuals, 42’s is driven by people who share an authentic love for music. This genuine passion permeates through every aspect of the club, from the curated playlists to the live performances, ensuring an electric atmosphere that keeps patrons coming back for more.
With such an unwavering dedication to music and its illustrious musical heritage, 42’s remains an enduring and beloved institution in Manchester’s nightlife scene, promising an unforgettable experience for all music enthusiasts who step through its doors.
Venue Manchester
Source: @venue_mcr
Venue Manchester is the epitome of a vibrant and unpretentious nightclub in the heart of the city. Embracing the authentic Mancunian spirit, this club sets itself apart by ditching the dress code, welcoming everyone with open arms. The pulsating beats of great music fill the glorified basement-turned-club, creating an electrifying atmosphere that’s hard to resist. What truly sets Venue Manchester apart is its simple yet powerful motto: “Don’t be a d*ck”. This inclusive and friendly approach ensures a fun-filled night for all, making it a must-visit club for locals and visitors alike, seeking an unforgettable Manchester nightlife experience.
Satans Hollow
Source: @satanshollow
Satans Hollow is an electrifying haven for Punk/Rock/Metal aficionados in Manchester, making it a magnet for the city’s young and energetic clubbing crowd. While finding it may require a bit of effort, the journey is undeniably worth it. With affordable entry fees, this club ensures a lively and vibrant atmosphere, leaving no room for a quiet evening.
Two bars encircle the pulsating dance floor, offering an array of wallet-friendly drinks. As an added bonus, Tuesdays boast a free bar between 10 pm and 11 pm, no strings attached. A colossal statue of Satan presides over the DJ booth, adding to the immersive and thrilling experience.
The club nights are spectacular, with Wednesday’s “Seduction,” Friday’s “Roadkill,” and Saturday’s “Spitfire” providing diverse music options for every visitor. Metalheads are in for a treat on Saturdays. The crowd is distinctive and youthful, adorned with skinny jeans and abundant piercings, creating an authentic party atmosphere.
For those who revel in a night filled with heavy music, dynamic energy, and a real sense of camaraderie, Satans Hollow undoubtedly stands as the club of choice in Manchester.
Conclusion
With all these great student bars, pubs and clubs, it’s no wonder Manchester is one of the most popular student cities in the UK. With a great atmosphere and plenty of activities, Manchester has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a night of dancing, a quiet evening relaxing with friends or simply for some great drinks, the city’s student bars are sure to provide you with a great time. So why not get out and explore some of Manchester’s best student bars today?