Best Rooftop Bars in Manchester

I know it sounds hard to believe but, on the rare occasion, the city of Manchester does actually get treated to a spell of good weather. And with that spell of good weather, comes the equally rare chance to take full advantage of the city's best-kept secrets, in the form of sun-soaked rooftop bars. You know what I’m getting at, don’t you? Yes, Mob — I’m going to take you through the best rooftop spots in Manchester. And as someone who regularly visits the city (a best mate of mine lives in a certain trendy neighbourhood known as Ancoats. If you know, you know), I’d say I’ve got a pretty good idea.

For Mancs and tourists alike, here’s a pick of the best rooftop bars in Manchester for 2023.

Looking for somewhere to catch a bite to eat beforehand? Here's a rundown of the best restaurants in Manchester, too.

YES — relaxed drinking, epic music events

Climat — wine-led rooftop with carefully curated dishes to match

Brickhouse Social — good for groups, late-night pizza slices

20 Stories — great for special occasions, wraparound views

Terrace NQ — laid-back boozing, industrial vibes

El Gato Negro — bustling tapas bar, charming

King Street Townhouse — classy spot tucked inside a classy hotel

Junkyard Golf — no-fuss, fun cocktails

We're kicking off this list of recs with the answer to whether you should give it a go already in the name: YES. YES is an epic music venue which spotlights new and upcoming talent side-by-side with delicious street food, populating four floors complete with — you guessed it — a standout roof terrace. Hosting a happy hour every day 12pm until 6pm offering two fancy drinks for just £10, it's a YES from us, Mob.

38 Charles Street, M1 7DB

Next up we've got a newbie — introducing Climat, the latest hotspot for wine aficionados. This stunning wine-led rooftop bar and restaurant houses a cellar of approximately 300 different wines, angled largely towards the founder's favourite region: Burgundy. Of course, it doesn't stop there, either. There's vino from all across the globe spotlighting everything from small-batch producers to more iconic, established wineries. Team that up with the restaurant's impressive food offering and a purpose-built rooftop dining room, and you've got yourself a remarkable date night spot.

8th Floor, Blackfriars House, M3 2JA

If you've been to Manchester, then chances are you'll have heard of 20 Stories. Located in the heart of Spinningfields — the city's stylish financial district — the fancy restaurant and cocktail bar has a rooftop garden terrace with wraparound views of Manchester and promises the "perfect setting for any occasion." Reserved for those who like to get a little dressed up, this botanical-themed rooftop bar serves everything from Flamingo Dance to Northern Spring Punch cocktails all crafted in-house and designed to offer you something special to enjoy while sat staring into the sky.

No 1 Spinningfields, 1 Hardman Square, Spinningfields, M3 3EB

One word — vibes. Brickhouse Social situated on Oxford Road has everything. A pool room, taproom and (hence the inclusion) a brilliant rooftop bar and sun terrace. Not stopping at classic cocktails and beer on tap, this place even has a pizza restaurant so you can get your late-night fix with menu items named after some of the biggest stars about. Chicky Minaj. Bread Pitt. Arni-choke Schwarzenegger. Count us in.

11-13 New Wakefield Street, M1 5NP

You can find Terrace NQ in Manchester's hip-and-happening Northern Quarter — the birthplace to some of the city's best independent eateries and bars. A little rough around the edges, this characterful bar has a leafy rooftop terrace with plenty of seating for hosting a big group of friends. The bar's ambient lighting and industrial aesthetic make for a modern, laid-back spot for boozing on a weeknight under the stars.

43 Thomas Street, M4 1NA

A bustling tapas restaurant and bar, El Gato Negro is set over three floors with the pièce de résistance sitting charmingly on the rooftop. Bringing the outdoors in, this plush rooftop terrace features a retractable rooftop (smart), soft furnishings and standout artwork with a padded bar loaded with superb wine and artisanal craft spirits ready to be sipped under the sun.

52 King St, M2 4LY

A south-facing, sun-soaked rooftop terrace dotted with fairy lights complete with snug seating — perfect for an after-work tipple with your work bestie. This place has sweeping views of the city's skyline and is probably one of the cosiest spots in Manchester for soaking up the rays. Located at the top of King Street Townhouse — a 4-star hotel — this place even has an infinity pool, if you fancy it. Guests only, though.

10 Booth Street, M2 4AW

If a no-faff, no-fuss rooftop bar sounds like a bit of you, then this pick from Junkyard Golf Club will be right up your street. Located in Deansgate, enjoy a spot of mini golf before unwinding on the club's rooftop terrace with a Bubblegum Sunset in hand.

2 First St, M15 4RP