The best secret bars in Manchester

Clandestine cocktail bar The Washhouse is disguised as a typical launderette, but really it's anything but typical. Climb through the washing machine door to find a sophisticated and comfortable cocktail spot. The speciality here is eye-catching original cocktails that are full of flavour and look just as good as they taste.

Speakeasy bar Behind Closed Doors is hidden away in an underground setting. Its discreet street entrance means you could easily miss it as you walk past. Inside, it's a low-lit, bustling, and liberal venue, with booths equipped with phone lines so you can call other tables. Creative cocktails are served here.

Northern Quarter venue Dusk Til Pawn looks like an ordinary pawnbrokers at first glance. Once you get inside, you'll find a speakeasy bar that's decorated in a timeless vintage style. It's relaxed and cosy, and also has a free-to-use jukebox. Vibrant original cocktails are served, plus other options like wine and beer.

Project Halcyon Distillery might be a popular Manchester drinking spot but it's hidden away beneath the former set of Coronation Street. This award-winning venue has an on-site distillery and a number of different spaces. The overall look is opulent and sophisticated. The upmarket drinks list includes original cocktails, wine, and beer.

Formerly a public convenience in the middle of the city, The Temple is now an underground bar with a buzzy vibe. Descend the steps and you'll find a compact drinking spot with colourful walls, art, and sparkling lights. This low-key venue serves beers from all over the world, has a jukebox, and also hosts DJs and bands regularly.

Although Speak in Code is a well-known and award-winning bar, it's discreetly hidden away in a city centre side street. This venue is elegant and trendy, with a hip hop playlist and cosy spots to relax. Forward-thinking cocktails are the speciality; the bar makes as many of its own ingredients as possible, including syrups, sodas, and liqueurs.

Hidden away in Northern Quarter venue Cane & Grain, Science & Industry is a secret cocktail bar and drinks lab. Scientific techniques are used to create experimental new cocktails, as well as some old favourites like margaritas and espresso martinis. It's a sleek and low-lit spot with wood panelling and Chesterfield sofas.

Beneath vegan pizza restaurant Purezza you'll find Parla Bar, hidden away below street level. The menu here is also vegan, but it's all about cocktails inspired by Manchester. Classic and creative new cocktails are served in comfortable modern surroundings with moody red lighting. Live music is on regularly too.

The entrance to Alcotraz looks unassuming at street level but you're in for a unique experience if you step inside. You sneak in your own alcohol at this immersive prison-themed bar. Once you're in, you'll put on an orange jumpsuit and head to your cell. The talented bar staff will mix bespoke cocktails using the alcohol you supply.

Located in the bank vault of what was once the city's Stock Exchange, Sterling is a glamorous drinking spot that revives the 1920s. It's sleek and sophisticated, and boasts a wine room for exclusive drinking experiences. Try original cocktails inspired by the prohibition age, including drinks made with rare and vintage spirits. Other drinks and bar snacks are served too.

Low-lit drinking den Blind Tyger is nestled beneath Mexican-inspired bar and restaurant Sandinista. The venue has a drawing room vibe with vintage style, wood panelling and patterned wallpaper. You can book a cocktail masterclass here or drop in for a drink, with cocktails, draft beer, and wine all available.

A well-established local bar, Corbieres Bar is hidden along a side street and down a set of stairs. This cavernous venue is simple, secluded, and often bustling with a crowd. A full range of drinks are served and pizza is available too, including weekly specials. The venue puts on live music but is also well-loved for its jukebox.

Speakeasy-style bar The Fitzgerald is appropriately hidden away in a Northern Quarter alleyway. Once you're inside, you'll find a vintage-inspired setting that channels the glamour of the 1920s. The venue has eclectic decor and vintage glassware, plus live music at weekends. Cocktails are the speciality but there's also a monthly bottomless brunch.

Parisian-inspired bar The Daisy is hidden away underneath popular venue Evelyn's Café Bar. This comfortable spot has atmospheric lighting and features art prints on the walls and lots of plush and comfy spaces to sit down. You can sample sophisticated cocktails here, with local DJs supplying the soundtrack every weekend.

Escape the pace of the city centre at Wood & Company. This underground drinking spot is inspired by New York, having retro stylings and a trendy feel. Lamps and candles add to the intimate atmosphere. An extensive array of classic and original cocktails are served here, plus craft beers are also on offer.

Mean Eyed Cat is known for its cocktails and imaginative pizzas but it also has a hidden bar inside the venue - Tiki Hideaway. This 1950s-style Polynesian paradise has evocative decor and an on-theme playlist. Visit for rum and tropical cocktails. This space is also available to hire for parties and special events.

In a discreet location at Kampus, Red Light is an LGBTQ+ speakeasy cocktail bar with an intimate atmosphere. This swanky spot is housed in a historic building and has a comfortable interior. A variety of different drinks are served here but well-crafted cocktails are the speciality. DJ sets regularly enhance the atmosphere too.

Tucked away beneath The Molly House in the Gay Village, Company Bar is a discreet men-only venue. Expect a welcoming atmosphere and a cosy and intimate setting at this low-key venue. The place stays open until late and is particularly popular for its 80s nights, but a broad range of music is on the speakers here.

Hidden away behind a barber shop in Deansgate, One Eight Six is a modern and intimate spot for cocktails and live music. Groups of all sizes are welcome at this low-lit establishment. Enjoy drinks until late and take in one of the regular live music performances covering genres like R&B, soul, and funk.