13 best nightclubs in Manchester that’ll keep you out ‘til sunrise
Some nights, I catch myself blasting Charli XCX in my room, singing my heart out like I’m headlining a festival. But you know what’s always missing? The crowd. The energy. The drinks.
So when the solo concert vibe just isn’t cutting it, I hit up my friends or sometimes my teammates, and we head out to explore Manchester’s nightlife. The city’s packed with clubs, and honestly, why not make the most of it?
If you’re over partying solo and craving a night out with a whole different kind of energy, stick around. We’ve got the inside scoop on some of the best spots we’ve hit up.
1. Ark Manchester
Media credits: ark.manc
Address: 3A, 5 Whitworth St W
Contact details: +44 161 819 5858
Operating hours:
- Wednesday: 10:30 PM – 4 AM
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: 8 PM – 4 AM
- Saturday: 5 PM – 4 AM
- Sunday to Tuesday: Closed
Price: £
Our team hit up Ark Manchester for “Twisted D!SKO” night and it was one of the best nights out we’ve had in a while. The energy in the place was unreal. There were confetti drops, bare brick walls, and stylish booth seating that gave the venue an edgy feel.
With different rooms playing hip-hop, R&B, and even techno, there was something for everyone. We spent most of the night jumping between rooms because the DJs were just that good. The sound system was top-tier, and the lighting effects made the experience even more immersive.
Massive shoutout to the bouncers, too. We could tell they were keeping an eye on things, but without killing the vibe.
The drinks were reasonably priced, and the service was quick. Even during peak hours, we didn’t wait long at the bar.
Pro tip:
If you’re heading to Ark Manchester, book a VIP booth in advance if you’re with a group. It’s worth it for the personal service and prime seating.
2. The Venue Nightclub
Media credits: venue_mcr
Address: 29 Jackson’s Row
Contact details: +44 161 834 3793
Operating hours:
- Thursday: 10:30 PM – 12 AM
- Friday: 10:30 PM – 3 AM
- Saturday: 10:30 PM – 6 AM
- Monday to Wednesday: Closed
Price: £
When we visited The Venue Nightclub, the music was on point. Early on, they played some Arctic Monkeys and indie classics, which set the vibe perfectly. Later in the night, the DJ switched up things with dance tracks to build the energy up.
Drinks were a bit of a rollercoaster—£1 shots and £3 cocktails? Absolute win. If you’re planning a night here, pre-drinks are the way to go but don’t go overboard since the bouncers do keep an eye on things.
Space-wise, there was plenty of room to dance but also seating areas for when you needed a break. The retro decor added to the club’s character, though accessibility could be an issue for some since there are stairs.
Pro tip:
No need to overthink your outfit at The Venue Nightclub. The dress code is pretty relaxed. Just skip the tracksuits and football shirts, and you’re good to go!
3. Hidden at Downtex Mill
Media credits: hiddenclubmcr
Address: 16-18 Mary St, Cheetham Hill
Contact details:
Operating hours:
- Friday to Saturday: 11 PM – 4 AM
- Sunday to Thursday: Closed
Price: £
Hidden at Downtex Mill has that raw, underground energy you’d expect from a proper rave spot. The graffiti-covered walls, psychedelic lighting, and pulsing bass made it feel like we’d just walked into a secret party that only the right people knew about.
We spent most of the night bouncing between rooms, and each had its own unique vibe. The Den is perfect for those who like an intimate, high-energy space. The Blue Room had crisp sound system–one of the best we’ve heard in Manchester, so far.
If there’s one thing we’d love to see improved, it’s a more accessible way to grab water. The queues at the bar can slow things down, especially when all you need is a quick refill to keep going on the dancefloor.
Pro tip:
Check the lineup on their social media before you go. Each night has a different music style, so make sure it matches your vibe so you can fully enjoy your visit.
4. Satans Hollow
Media credits: satanshollow
Address: 101 Princess St
Contact details: +44 161 236 0666
Operating hours:
- Tuesday: 10 PM – 3 AM
- Wednesday to Thursday: Closed
- Friday: 10 PM – 3:30 AM
- Saturday: 10 PM – 4 AM
- Sunday to Monday: Closed
Price: £
The decor alone in Satans Hollow sets the tone. There’s a massive statue of Satan looming over the DJ booth, and the quirky graveyard seating area just adds to the whole experience. It’s got the perfect blend of eerie and exciting.
We checked it out on a Friday night, and the music was exactly what we were hoping for—rock, metal, and punk. The crowd was fully into it, headbanging, moshing, and screaming along to every classic anthem. It felt like one big, chaotic, but friendly party.
What really surprised us was how affordable everything was. Entry was just £5, and the drinks were shockingly cheap. You can get double vodka with orange for £5, whiskey and coke for £3.50, and even shots for £2.
Pro tip:
If you’re not a fan of super loud music, bring some earplugs. The sound system and the crowd get pretty intense.
5. Viva Manchester
Media credits: vivareggaetonmcr
Address: 58 Whitworth St W
Contact details: +44 7436 634837
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 10 PM – 3 AM
- Friday: 10 PM – 4 AM
- Saturday: 11 PM – 4 AM
- Sunday: Closed
Price: ££
Viva Manchester has a sleek, stylish vibe. We loved that there were three different music rooms to switch between. One minute, we were vibing to house music. The next, we were in an R&B room.
The bouncers were welcoming, and the staff inside were friendly too. Drinks were reasonably priced, so we didn’t feel like we were getting ripped off.
The only downside is that the dance floor is pretty small, so it got packed fast. Luckily, there were plenty of sofas around when we needed a breather.
Pro tip:
Some scheduled events seem to end about 30 minutes early, so keep that in mind if you’re planning your night.
6. 42’s
Media credits: 42snightclub
Address: 2 Bootle St
Contact details: +44 161 831 7108
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11 PM – 3 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 10:30 PM – 3 AM
- Sunday to Monday: Closed
Price: £
If you’re into indie anthems and retro bangers, 42’s is definitely worth checking out. When we went, they were blasting Oasis and The Stone Roses, and all the classics. The dance floor was packed when we arrived, mostly with students.
We also loved the storage area for bags and jackets. It’s a lifesaver since we could actually enjoy the night without worrying about our stuff.
We also appreciated the security team since they were laid-back, but knew how to keep things in check. Mayo, one of the bouncers, had a real knack for spotting who was too drunk to come in and who just needed a bit of time before being let in.
Pro tip:
Get there early if you don’t want to spend ages in the queue, especially on weekends. The place fills up fast.
7. Gorilla
Media credits: dvotion_manchester
Address: 54-56 Whitworth St
Contact details: +44 161 425 0870
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Friday: 11 AM – 3 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 3 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 12 AM
- Monday: Closed
Price: ££
Gorilla is a nice spot for a more laid-back night out. The place has that cool industrial vibe. It’s tucked under the railway arches with a mix of wood, metal, and just the right amount of grit.
Once the gig started, the whole vibe shifted. The venue itself is pretty small so no matter where you end up, you’re right up close to the stage. The sound was on point, and the lighting added to the whole experience.
But be warned: it gets packed. At one point, it was impossible to move. If you’re not a fan of tight spaces, getting there early is your best bet.
Pro tip:
Before heading to the music action, the restaurant side is worth a stop. Their Sunday Roast is huge, easily for three people at just an affordable price.
8. Popworld Manchester
Media credits: popworldmanc
Address: 5 Whitworth St W
Contact details: +44 161 819 5858
Operating hours:
- Friday: 8 PM – 3:30 AM
- Saturday: 5 PM – 3:30 AM
- Sunday to Thursday: Closed
Price: £
Popworld Manchester is the kind of place that just screams fun. The vibe is pure party mode, from the neon lights to the throwback tunes.
We went on a Saturday night, and the DJ nailed it with a mix of classic pop anthems with current bangers.
The drinks were decent for a night out, both in price and variety. One of our team members went for the “Pop-tini” which has a fruity, candy-like flavour.
Grabbing a booth was a game-changer since it gave us a place to chill between dance-offs. Safe to say, we barely sat down because the music made it impossible to stay off the dance floor.
Pro tip:
Get there before 11 PM if you want cheaper entry and shorter bar queues. The place gets packed later on, so coming early means you’ll get to even snag a booth before the real chaos kicks in!
9. Venus Manchester Ltd
Address: Maybrook House, 40 Blackfriars St
Contact details: +44 161 834 7288
Operating hours:
- Saturday: 11 PM – 7 AM
- Sunday to Friday: Closed
Price: ££
If you’re into house music, Venus Manchester is a place for you. The DJs absolutely nailed it with their classic vocal house mixed with fresh remixes. Just when we thought it couldn’t get better, a live saxophonist jumped in, adding a whole new vibe.
There was also a percussionist who kept the energy flowing. Honestly, it felt like a mini festival packed into one club. The music was lively all night, with no weird dips in energy.
One thing we really noticed was how well-run the place is. The door staff were friendly but firm, so it never felt overcrowded or chaotic. The crowd was all there for the music—no bad vibes, just people who love house music and came to dance.
Pro tip:
Pace yourself. The club runs until 7 AM, so if you want to last till sunrise, don’t go too hard too soon!
10. The MCR Lounge
Media credits: loungemcr
Address: 31 Withy Grove
Contact details: +44 161 327 4285
Operating hours:
- Friday: 6 PM – 12 AM
- Saturday: 12 AM – 7 AM, 10 PM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 12 AM – 7 AM
- Monday to Thursday: Closed
Price: ££
We happened to catch an R&B and Afro House night at The MCR Lounge. The DJ absolutely delivered with his seamless mixes and even interacted with the crowd.
There were also VIP areas that looked very well-organised. It’s perfect for groups looking for a more private experience.
The staff here were also incredible. The guy at the door is swift and smart with his resolving arguments. Josh and Callum were on top of everything – making sure our drinks were sorted, checking in on our table, and giving solid recommendations.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget your IDs. The MCR Lounge’s security doesn’t play around, so if you don’t have yours, you’re not getting in.
11. Via Manchester
Media credits: via_canal_street
Address: 28-30 Canal St
Contact details: +44 161 236 6523
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: 12 PM – 1 AM
- Wednesday to Thursday: 12 PM – 2 AM
- Friday: 12 PM – 3 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 4 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 2 AM
Price: £
Via Manchester has a great vibe with its dark wood interiors, lively energy, and a crowd that’s just there to have a good time.
The drag performances were the highlight for us. The queens were fierce, funny, and completely owned the stage. Even if we’ve seen some of their sets before, they always find a way to make it fresh and engaging.
And just when we thought the night couldn’t get better, the DJ took over. They played banger after banger, and before we knew it, we were on the dance floor, completely lost in the music. The whole place just came alive.
Pro tip:
They’ve got food to keep you going! The burger and mac & cheese are crowd favourites, so definitely give them a try between drinks and dancing.
12. The Brewers Manchester
Media credits: brewersmcr
Address: 4 Canal St
Contact details: +44 161 507 0378
Operating hours:
- Monday: 4 PM – 2 AM
- Tuesday: 4 PM – 4 AM
- Wednesday: 4 PM – 2 AM
- Thursday: 4 PM – 4 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 2 PM – 4 AM
- Sunday: 2 PM – 2 AM
Price: £
When our team popped into The Brewers for a night out, we kicked things off downstairs at the bar, which has a cosy feel. The happy hour deal (2-for-1 cocktails) was a solid win, especially the Pornstar Martini and Strawberry Daiquiri. Both are fruity and dangerously easy to drink.
Upstairs is where things get going. The drag performance was absolutely top-tier. We loved how some drag queens really interacted with the crowd, making sure no one felt left out.
After the drag performances, the DJ took over and knew exactly how to keep the energy up. The music was a solid mix of pop hits, upbeat dance tracks, and a vocal house. The dance floor was well-lit and spacious enough to actually move.
Pro tip:
The outside seating is a great spot to relax. It’s perfect if you want a quieter drink or even bring your dog along!
13. Off The Square
Media credits: offthesquaremcr
Address: 67 Lever St
Contact details: +44 161 518 4248
Operating hours:
- Friday to Saturday: 7 PM – 4 AM
- Sunday to Thursday: Closed
Price: ££
The moment we walked into Off The Square, we knew we were in for a solid night.
The night kicked off with spoken word poetry that had the crowd hanging onto every word, followed by some seriously soulful performances that hit just right. A few hours in, the music shifted gears into alternative hip-hop, and that’s when things really took off.
The sound system was crisp, loud, and completely immersive. The artists gave it everything, and by the end of the night, we had a list of new names to check out on the way home.
Pro tip:
Get there a bit early if you want a good spot near the stage. Also, check out their event lineup beforehand. Some nights are all about live bands, while others are more DJ-focused.