Top Tips
Manchester is always making headlines as it doesn't sit still for long, with new developments happening around the city every day. A big factor which is helping the northern city rival the country's capital is the food and drink scene. From rooftop domes, to quirky speakeasy bars, this year has seen a fantastic range of new openings to give events more choice of venues outside of the standard hotel spaces.
Below are some of our top picks of 2026's new spaces to explore in the city.
Spinningfields
ABC Buildings
ABC Buildings have been on the St John's block for a while, redeveloping the 1930s buildings to create a plethora of spaces to use from co-working to parties. The rooftop dome has been a standout addition to the limited rooftop options to hire in Manchester, offering smashing views of Spinningfields. Complete with a private bar built in a refurbished airstream caravan, this Christmas the space will be decked out perfectly for the festivities.
The newest addition to the building is the ABC Club. This is a members'-style lounge, with recording facilities and a talks programme, making the whole building a fit for product launches, networking evenings or a team away day that wants a bit of theatre.
Side Street
After a recent refresh, Side Street has been transformed into three distinct spaces under one roof - all oozing with retro aesthetics. The Side Bar has mid-century styling, with a brilliant menu from Tartuffe with a DJ booth to keep the tunes going all night. The new Side Space leans into the late-night music scene, but also is a fantastic space for any brand or pop-up events. Finally Side Store, a busy coffee fix spot during the day, transforms into a cosy wine bar perfect for evening networking.
The full venue can host up to 300 guests, with the individual spaces offering opportunities for your daytime workshop to roll straight into your evening party without the guests needing to leave the building.
Courts Club
Anyone who has been on the hunt for an outside space in the centre will know what a hard task that can be. Mancunians have had their prayers answered with the city's latest addition - the Courts Club. Not only do the courts give flexible options for company sports days or summer parties, but the indoor bar and heated pergola keep the parties going no matter the weather.
Towards the end of the year, the space is transformed into a Bavarian Christmas beer hall offering fire pits for marshmallows, and even private karaoke chalets to sing the night away.
Northern Quarter / Ancoats
Dahlia Stereo
This two-floor restaurant had big boots to fill when it took over the old Pie and Ale site, and they have definitely risen to the challenge! Dahlia Stereo's open-fire kitchen, serving Latin American and southern USA barbecue has been turning heads already since opening at the start of September 2026.
Curated by the same team behind Ramona and The Firehouse, this is the new trendy space on the block which captures the indie vibes of Northern Quarter perfectly. From small dinners to exclusive takeovers, this is definitely one to consider.
Bar Dos
Being the younger sibling to one of the UK's top cocktail bars, Stray, Bar Dos leans hard into the music scene with curated DJs by some serious names in the Manchester music scene. Coming soon, this will be a good shout if your event needs a genuine party atmosphere rather than background beats and the office Spotify playlist.
Deansgate
The Nest, Treehouse Hotel
This hotel has been on everyone's watchlist over the years following their iconic London hotel. Completely transforming the previous Renaissance Hotel on Deansgate, the latest floor to open is The Nest rooftop. Filled with plenty of flora and fauna, the cocktail bar has views of the Manchester skyline.
Although the Treehouse Hotel isn't strictly a Manchester-based brand, they have ensured to keep the northern vibe going by partnering with the local heroes behind Volta, Electrik and The Refuge. This bar is decorated to perfection, all you need to do is turn up and jump straight into your client dinner or toast to the company milestones.
Stockport
Loft Social
Although not in the Manchester city centre, Stockport has been making headlines by following in Manchester's footsteps and becoming a destination for a great night out. Loft Social is one of the spaces which is part of the Underbanks' £7m regeneration and they have not disappointed locals.
This is the newest spot to go for a playful night with a variety of team activities to break the ice. From shuffleboard, pétanque, curling lanes and archery all alongside a cracking cocktail list. If your team wants activities as much as atmosphere, this is the one.
Worth keeping an eye on
The Locker
Although not quite open yet, the Locker is one to watch for any end of year plans. This will be the newest large-capacity club to open up, hosted in the iconic listed New Century building. Many are waiting eagerly for the doors to open and to experience the highly anticipated sound system.
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