12 best date ideas in Manchester that will leave a lasting impression
We’ve all been there—trying to impress someone while also stressing over what’s going to happen on the date. Not only are you thinking about conversation starters, but you’re also wondering what to actually do. We get it, it’s a lot.
But no worries, we’ve got your back! We’ve rounded up some awesome date ideas around Manchester, broken down into categories to make it easy. We’ve got you covered whether you’re after something fun or romantic.
Keep reading to find your next great date idea!
Quirky and fun date ideas
1. Play some arcade games at NQ64 Arcade Bar
Media credits: nq64arcadebars
Address: 12 Tib St
Contact details: +44 161 710 1957
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12 PM – 2 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 PM – 3 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 2 AM
Price: $$
NQ64 Arcade Bar is an awesome spot for a fun date night. Tucked away in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, it feels like stepping into a neon dream, with glow-in-the-dark graffiti and a throwback vibe to the ’80s and ’90s arcade days.
With 40 arcade machines, 2 pinball machines, and 7 retro consoles, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. And the best part is many consoles are free to play! For the arcade machines, you just grab some tokens and jump into the action.
The drinks are just as fun, with cocktails that have quirky names to match their flavours. Think fruity, tropical, and bold like Peach On The Beach, Mountain Doom, and Mad Max Zombie.
Pro tip:
Maximise your fun and budget by opting for NQ64’s drink and token packages. These deals often include guaranteed entry, game tokens, and drinks at a set price. They give you the perfect mix of entertainment and value.
2. Have a friendly competition at Junkyard Golf
Media credits: junkyardgolfclub
Address: 2 First St
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: 4 PM – 12 AM
- Wednesday: 2 PM – 12 AM
- Thursday: 12 PM – 12 AM
- Friday: 2 PM – 1 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 10 PM
Price: $$
Junkyard Golf strikes the perfect balance for a date. It’s casual, vibrant, and just interactive enough to spark laughter and connection. It’s an ideal way to break the ice or mix things up from the usual dinner-and-a-movie routine.
The courses are super quirky, with cool themes like a scrapyard packed with car parts (Gary), a spooky carnival with creepy clowns (Bozo), and a jungle that’s a little rough around the edges (Pablo). With neon lights, UV effects, and a dimly lit vibe, it’s like stepping into another world.
It’s more of a party than just a mini-golf. You can grab colourful cocktails and snacks as you play. There are handy tables are at each hole, so there’s no awkward juggling.
The whole experience takes about an hour or two, which is plenty of time for some friendly competition and a lot of fun.
Pro tip:
Make sure to book your spot ahead of time, especially if you’re planning to visit on a weekend. Junkyard Golf is a popular spot, and time slots fill up fast.
3. Smuggle some beers like prisoners at Alcotraz: Prison-Themed Bar
Media credits: alcotraz
Address: 1A Watson St
Contact details: +44 20 3835 5767
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Wednesday: 7:05 PM – 8:50 PM
- Thursday: 7:05 PM – 11:15 PM
- Friday: 3:30 PM – 11:15 PM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 11:15 PM
- Sunday: 2:15 PM – 8:50 PM
- Monday: Closed
Price: $$
Alcotraz in Manchester is a prison-themed bar that’s extraordinary. Here, you smuggle your own booze past the “Warden” and let the “inmates” whip up custom cocktails just for you. It’s inspired by classic prison stories and Hollywood drama, making it an exciting and creative night out.
From the moment you arrive, you’re handed an orange jumpsuit and led into real metal cells. The whole place feels like a prison, with actors playing guards and inmates who stay in character the entire time. They make sure the experience is lively, fun, and totally immersive.
The experience lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes, with plenty of laughs, interaction, and entertainment along the way. It’s perfect for small groups of up to four people, so you can even go on a double date with your friends!
Pro tip:
Bring a 70cl bottle of your favourite spirit. The talented inmate mixologists will transform it into four custom cocktails perfectly suited to your taste with their creative syrups, mixers, and bitters.
Romantic date ideas
1. Try some Chinese cuisine together at Tattu
Media credits: tatturestaurant
Address: 3 Hardman Square, Gartside St
Contact details: +44 161 819 2060
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12 PM – 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 12 AM
Price: $$$
Tattu in Manchester is the perfect spot for a romantic night out, offering a unique twist on modern Chinese cuisine in an elegant setting. The restaurant’s decor is inspired by body art, with cherry blossom trees and soft purple lighting setting a dreamy mood.
The food is amazing, blending traditional Chinese flavours with a modern twist. Some must-try dishes include the wagyu dumplings, filled with top-quality beef. The restaurant encourages sharing, which makes the meal feel even more special.
Each dish is beautifully presented, adding to the experience. Tattu also has a fantastic cocktail menu, with creative drinks that go perfectly with the food.
Pro tip:
If you have any dietary needs, don’t hesitate to ask the staff for some help. They’re super attentive and happy to help with recommendations.
2. Sip cocktails with a great city view at 20 Stories
Media credits: 20storiesmcr
Address: No. 1, 1 Hardman St
Contact details: +44 161 204 3333
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 12 PM – 9 PM
- Thursday to Saturday: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 8 PM
Price: $$$
20 Stories is a great place for a date. It offers amazing food, stunning views, and a lively vibe. It’s on the 19th floor of No.1 Spinningfields, right in the centre of Manchester.
The rooftop offers incredible views of the city. Inside, the decor is modern and stylish. In the winter, the rooftop transforms into a cosy garden with fire pits and twinkling lights.
The food is fantastic, with a menu featuring local, seasonal ingredients from the North West. You can choose from an à la carte menu or try a five-course tasting menu.
The drinks are just as good, with over 600 wines and cocktails like the Manchester Punch. It’s a mix of sloe gin, rosewater, cherry bitters, and raspberry.
Pro tip:
It’s smart-casual here, so ditch the sportswear or flip-flops. You can get away with smart shorts until 7 PM, though.
3. Stroll around John Rylands Library
Media credits: thejohnrylands
Address: 150 Deansgate
Contact details: +44 161 306 0555
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Price: Free
The John Rylands Library in Manchester is a beautiful spot with amazing architecture, rich history, and a super peaceful vibe. Designed by Basil Champneys, it has a stunning neo-Gothic style that feels more like a cathedral than a library.
Inside, there are over 250,000 printed books and more than a million manuscripts, including the oldest fragment of the New Testament. The library also has rotating exhibitions that feature rare books and manuscripts, making it both educational and visually impressive.
The quiet atmosphere makes it a perfect place for a relaxed, intimate date. You can stroll through the aisles, check out the collections, and enjoy the calm away from the busy city. It’s great for deep conversations or just taking it easy together.
Pro tip:
After your visit to the library, grab a bite at one of the nearby restaurants. If you’re feeling fancy, check out Australasia, or keep it casual with a meal at Rola Wola or Federal.
Budget-friendly date ideas
1. Watch some unique films at IndieFlicks
Media credits: indieflicksofficial
Address: Ducie Street Warehouse, Ducie St
Contact details: +44 161 503 9551
Operating hours:
- Sunday: 7:45 PM – 10 PM
Price: $
IndieFlicks is a great date night idea for couples who want to try something creative and cultural. This monthly film festival shows off international short films and gives new filmmakers a chance to shine. It takes place on the first Sunday of every month.
What makes IndieFlicks cool is how interactive it is. You get to vote for your favourite short film, and after the screenings, there are Q&A sessions where you can chat with filmmakers and special guests. The night finishes with a longer short film chosen by a panel of judges.
The vibe is super relaxed, with food and drinks from the bar, making it easy to hang out and talk with other film fans. It’s a perfect way for couples to enjoy new films together and maybe even spark some interesting conversations.
Pro tip:
Since IndieFlicks is an 18+ event, make sure to bring a valid ID to get in. You’ll need it to prove your age, so it’s best to have it on hand to avoid any hassles at the door.
2. Have a food trip at Mackie Mayor Food Hall
Media credits: mackiemayor
Address: Smithfield Market Hall, 1 Eagle St
Contact details: +44 161 111 1111
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 9 AM – 10 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 9 AM – 11 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Monday: Closed
Price: $
Mackie Mayor Food Hall is a great mix of history, good vibes, and tasty food. It’s in a beautiful 1858 building that used to be part of Smithfield Market. The building keeps its old-school charm with exposed brick and cast iron beams, which makes it feel really cosy.
There’s a ton of food to choose from. There are Honest Crust’s sourdough pizzas, Tender Cow’s juicy burgers and steaks, and more. They’ve also got loads of vegan and vegetarian options, so everyone’s covered.
The atmosphere is chill and fun. You sit at communal tables, so it’s easy to chat and enjoy the buzz of the place. Plus, there’s no need to book a table—just show up and enjoy the spontaneity. The place is also dog-friendly, so you can bring your pup along for the ride.
Pro tip:
After your meal, take a stroll around the Northern Quarter or grab a drink at a nearby bar like the Smithfield Tavern to keep the good vibes going.
3. Laugh your hearts out together at The Frog and Bucket Comedy Club
Media credits: frogandbucketcomedy
Address: 102 Oldham St
Contact details: +44 161 236 9805
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7 PM – 11 PM
- Saturday: 3 PM – 11:30 PM
- Sunday: 6 PM – 10 PM
Price: $
The Frog and Bucket Comedy Club has been around since 1994. It offers a mix of great comedy, tasty food, and a fun vibe. It’s one of the UK’s top spots for alternative comedy, featuring both big-name comedians and up-and-coming talent.
The place has a cosy, cabaret-style setup that makes everything feel personal. You’re close to the action, so it’s a great place to laugh with your date. It’s also wheelchair accessible, and you can order drinks right to your table, so it’s easy to relax and enjoy the night.
The shows are always different, from the “Barrel of Laughs” weekend shows with comedians from all over, to “Beat the Frog” on Mondays, where new acts try to impress the crowd. You never know who’ll show up, but the talent is always top-tier.
Pro tip:
Keep your phone on silent during the show to avoid distractions. Comedians often interact with the crowd, and a ringing phone could get some unexpected attention!
Outdoor and adventurous date ideas
1. Explore the city with Treasure Hunt Manchester
Media credits: treasurehunttours
Address: Piccadilly Station
Contact details: +44 161 375 1271
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 8 PM
Price: $
Treasure Hunt Manchester is a fun way for couples to explore the city. It’s all about solving puzzles, finding hidden gems, and working together. Instead of the usual dinner or movie, you get to discover new places and see Manchester in a whole new light.
The experience is flexible. You’ll get clues and maps on your phone, so no need for printouts or extra apps. As you walk around spots like St Peter’s Square, Canal Street, and Castlefield, you’ll solve around 19 clues that lead you to interesting places you might not know.
The best part? There’s no rush. You can start whenever and go at your own pace. If you want to stop for a coffee or visit a pub along the way, go for it. It’s all about having fun, enjoying the city, and learning a bit along the way.
Pro tip:
If you get stuck on any tricky clues, don’t hesitate to ask for hints. The game is all about having fun, so feel free to reach out to the captain for a little help.
2. Have a picnic at Platt Fields Park
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Address: Fallowfield
Contact details: +44 161 224 2902
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 4 PM
Price: Free
Platt Fields Park in Manchester is a great place for couples who want a mix of relaxing and fun activities. It’s the largest park in central Manchester, covering 170 acres. It’s nestled between Wilmslow Road and Platt Lane, so it’s a peaceful escape from the city buzz.
The park has a heart-shaped lake and it’s perfect for a walk or just sitting by the water. You can also check out the Shakespeare Garden with plants from his plays or the community orchard with fresh, seasonal produce.
If you like picnics, there are plenty of spots on the lawns or by the lake. It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the water reflects the colourful sky. For couples who enjoy a bit of action, there are tennis courts, basketball courts, and even a BMX track. It’s a fun way to get active together.
Pro tip:
If you’re a nature lover, check out the trails like the Nico Ditch and Cathedral Arch – they’re not just scenic, but also packed with history!
3. Climb some walls at Parthian Climbing
Media credits: parthian_climbing_mcr
Address: St Benedict’s Church, Bennett St, West Gorton
Contact details: +44 161 230 7006
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 10 AM – 6 PM
Price: $$
Parthian Climbing in Manchester is a fun and unique date idea. Set in a cool, renovated old church, it’s got a relaxed vibe that makes it perfect for a day out together. Whether you’ve climbed before or are just starting, there’s something for everyone.
With 125 routes to try, you can safely challenge each other on top rope and auto belay. If you’re up for something more challenging, there are 70 lead climbing routes. And if you like the idea of climbing without ropes, there are 80 bouldering problems to test out.
If you’re both new to climbing, there are easy intro courses to get you started, or you can book coaching sessions if you want to get better. The staff are super friendly and make sure everyone feels comfortable. Plus, it’s just a really fun way to spend time together!
Pro tip:
After your climb, unwind at the on-site café with a coffee to chat about your experiences and pop by the shop for some new gear.