Manchester is famous for its lively pubs, innovative craft breweries, and a nightlife that keeps the city buzzing well into the early hours. What makes Manchester stand out is its rich mix of traditional pubs and cutting-edge craft beer venues, all set against a backdrop of iconic city streets. Whether you’re after an energetic guided pub crawl or a more relaxed craft beer tasting, Manchester offers a variety of ways to enjoy its drinking culture. We particularly like the guided bar crawl for its lively atmosphere and the chance to dance at the end of the night, and the craft beer tasting for those who love discovering local brews.
Our list includes a mix of tour types: energetic pub crawls, craft beer tastings, scenic bike rides with drinks, and historical pub tours. Each offers a distinct experience, whether you’re in it for socializing, tasting, or learning about Manchester’s drinking history. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Manchester: Guided Bar Crawl with Shots and Nightclub Entry
Starting at number one, this guided bar crawl delivers a spirited night out that hits some of Manchester’s most popular venues. It lasts around five hours and costs about $27 per person, making it a great value for those wanting an authentic nightlife experience. The tour includes visits to four well-known bars, where you’ll get free shots and discounts on drinks using your wristband. The guide keeps the pace lively, helping you navigate Manchester’s bar scene with ease.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of socializing, drink discounts, and the final nightclub entry. It’s ideal for travelers who want to meet people from around the world, dance, and enjoy Manchester’s vibrant atmosphere all in one evening. The tour has a solid 4.3/5 rating from three reviews, with guests praising its fun vibe and well-organized route. Be prepared for a lively night, especially if you’re keen on dancing and making new friends.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for a lively, social night out, perfect if you want to experience Manchester’s nightlife and make friends along the way.
2. Manchester: Beer Bike Tour with Drinks and Music
At number two, the beer bike tour is a fun, interactive way to see Manchester from a different perspective. Lasting 75 minutes, this tour combines sightseeing, drinks, and music, making it perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just having a good time with friends. You’ll pedal through the city’s streets on a large, multi-person bike equipped with a Bluetooth sound system, so you can play your own playlist.
The tour includes a minimum of 32 cans of beer or four bottles of prosecco, which keeps everyone well-hydrated and in high spirits. The sober captain steers the bike, so no need to worry about balancing or cycling skills. It’s a lighthearted experience that’s especially suited for groups looking for active fun rather than a traditional pub crawl. Since reviews don’t specify ratings, it’s best for those who want a lively, memorable day with friends and don’t mind a bit of silliness.
Bottom Line: An energetic, social ride that combines sightseeing, music, and drinks—ideal for celebrating with friends in Manchester.
3. Manchester: Craft Beer Tasting in the Northern Quarter
For those interested in Manchester’s burgeoning craft beer scene, the craft beer tasting in the Northern Quarter is a standout. This 1.5-hour tour introduces you to five modern brews, guided by an expert who shares insights into brewing techniques and the city’s local beer culture. The Northern Quarter is known for its independent breweries and hip vibe, making it the perfect place for a focused tasting experience.
Guests get to sample different craft beer styles, gaining a better understanding of what makes Manchester’s beer scene so innovative. If you’re a beer lover eager to discover new flavors and learn from a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers great value. It’s also an excellent choice if you prefer a more relaxed, educational experience over the high-energy bar crawl or bike ride.
Bottom Line: Ideal for craft beer enthusiasts who want a quick but in-depth look into Manchester’s modern brewing scene with expert guidance.
4. Manchester: Pub Tour
Rounding out the list, the pub tour is Manchester’s best for history buffs and those curious about local drinking culture. Lasting around two hours, the guided tour visits classic pubs and some of the city’s most iconic drinking dens. It’s a relaxed walk through Manchester’s pub history, with stories behind pub names, the origin of “cheers,” and tales of notable characters who frequented these establishments.
Rated 4.4/5 from multiple reviews, this tour combines cultural insight with fun. It often includes a short pub quiz with prizes, adding an interactive element. The tour is perfect for travelers who want to understand Manchester’s drinking traditions in a friendly, social setting without the party atmosphere of a pub crawl.
Bottom Line: Great for history-minded travelers or those seeking a laid-back introduction to Manchester’s pub culture, with a few fun facts and stories along the way.
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Manchester
Choosing the best drinking tour depends on your interests, fitness, and how lively you want your night to be. If you’re after a high-energy night filled with dancing and meeting new people, the guided bar crawl is your best bet. For a more relaxed, educational encounter, the craft beer tasting is ideal. Want to combine sightseeing and drinks with a little physical activity? The beer bike tour offers a goofy, memorable experience. Finally, if history and local traditions appeal to you, the pub tour will satisfy that curiosity.
Consider your budget as well; the bar crawl is quite affordable at $27, while the others offer different value depending on what experiences interest you most. Book early, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure your spot in these popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
Manchester’s drinking scene offers something for all—from energetic pub crawls and scenic bike rides to tasting tours that reveal the city’s craft beer innovation, and history-rich pub walks. If you want a lively night with friends, the guided bar crawl is hard to beat. For craft beer lovers, the Northern Quarter tasting provides a quick, insightful experience. And those who prefer a mix of sightseeing and drinks will enjoy the beer bike tour.
No matter your style, booking ahead guarantees you a spot in these memorable tours. Manchester’s vibrant drinking culture is waiting—so raise a glass and get ready for a great time exploring the city through its pubs, brews, and stories.