Candles in front of a window with a rainbow flag in the background Candles in front of a window with a rainbow flag in the background

The best gay clubs in Manchester

Manchester has long been a pioneering city in the LGBTQ+ rights movement in the UK, playing a vital role in campaigning for equal rights and acceptance over the years. It probably comes as no surprise that the city is home to many bars and nightclubs catering to the LGBTQ+ community. Canal Street is at the heart of Manc's gay scene, so many of the nightclubs can be found around here, but the city is also constantly evolving, and things are popping up all over. Here are some of our favourite gay clubs to visit in Manchester.

In this guide
  1. Gay clubs in Manchester
    1. The Cockatoo Club – Cocktails and cabaret
    2. The Brewers – A favourite among locals and visitors
    3. Eagle Bar – Flamboyant fetish bar
    4. The New Union – Drag central
    5. G-A-Y – Pop classics and drag shows
    6. Via – Cabaret on Canal Street
    7. Hidden – A hotspot for party-goers
    8. The Church – In the heart of the Gay Village

Gay clubs in Manchester

The Cockatoo Club

Cocktails and cabaret

The Cockatoo Club is located in the heart of the Gay Village and is a lively cocktail and cabaret bar known for its luxe decor and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy drinks and tasty sharing boards, or attend one of the many exciting events hosted here. Guests can look forward to drag brunches, free cabaret performances, and a monthly queer book club.

The Brewers

A favourite among locals and visitors

The Brewers is a well-established and welcoming bar and nightclub in the heart of the Gay Village. The bar is renowned for its lively parties and entertainment, featuring DJs, drag acts, and live bands. Choose from a variety of drinks to suit every preference, enhanced by the colourful lights and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Eagle Bar

Flamboyant fetish bar

Eagle Bar is a men-only members bar and fetish venue and a cornerstone of Manchester's LGBTQ+ scene. This dimly lit basement venue boasts modern and comfortable drawing room-style decor and a stage for vibey performances. The award-winning bar offers a packed schedule of events featuring fantastic performers.

New Union Hotel – Gay clubs
New Union Hotel
New Union Hotel – Gay clubs
New Union Hotel
New Union Hotel – Gay clubs
New Union Hotel
New Union Hotel – Gay clubs
New Union Hotel
New Union Hotel – Gay clubs
New Union Hotel
New Union Hotel – Gay clubs
New Union Hotel
New Union Hotel – Gay clubs
New Union Hotel
New Union Hotel – Gay clubs
New Union Hotel

The New Union

Drag central

The New Union is a Manchester hotel with a show bar that serves a variety of drinks, from lagers and ciders to spirits and boutique gins. There's an American-style pool table, digital jukebox, and game machines, and from 9 pm onwards, the party begins with drag queen DJs and cabaret performances six nights a week, featuring everything from current hits and cheesy pop to R'n'B and rock.

G-A-Y

Pop classics and drag shows

G-A-Y in Manchester is a lively and welcoming venue featuring flamboyant decor and a lush roof terrace. Known for its pop classics playlist, the venue hosts regular live entertainment, including drag shows, bingo games, and various performances. Throughout the week, you can also make the most of special drink offers.

Via

Cabaret on Canal Street

Since its opening in 1995, Via has been a mainstay bar and cabaret venue on Canal Street. It's located in a classic Manchester red brick building featuring outdoor seating and an eclectic interior. Via offers a varied menu of drinks and street food, including tacos, wings, burgers, and pizza. Regular live shows add to the vibe, making it a great place to visit both day and night.

Hidden

A hotspot for party-goers

Hidden is located in Downtex Mill in Cheetham Hill and ranks among Manchester's top nightclubs. It hosts a bustling schedule of weekly events, including genres such as jungle, liquid D&B, and garage. The club hosts both day and night parties and special events with exciting secret line-ups. It's known for its bohemian and friendly atmosphere.

The Church

In the heart of the Gay Village

The Church is a beloved venue situated in the heart of Manchester's gay village. This lively and inclusive bar is open daily and welcomes everyone, regardless of age or sexuality. Guests can look forward to regular entertainment such as cabaret shows, karaoke, and guest appearances by some of Manchester's top drag queens.

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Editors

At Thatsup, we have extensive experience of guiding our readers to a city’s hidden gems. Since 2008, our editors have been writing insightful guides covering restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels, and hairdressers, among other things. Our guides consist of carefully selected tips based on our local knowledge and are regularly updated with the help of our focus group, where we collectively discuss selections and content. We are constantly working to inspire and provide you with the best possible experience, no matter where you are or what you are looking for.