Browns Manchester, Bar

About Venue

Browns Manchester is a brasserie and bar at 1 York Street in Manchester city centre, housed in the converted Athenaeum, originally the imposing banking hall of Parrs Bank, designed by Charles Heathcote in 1902 as a striking example of Edwardian baroque architecture with beautiful art nouveau detailing in the wrought ironwork.
The building's original character has been carefully retained throughout. High ceilings, marble columns, stained glass windows, original wood panelling, and a grand piano in the bar area give it an atmosphere that feels genuinely historic without being stuffy. Four hireable spaces span the building, from the intimate Private Dining Room in the original bank manager's office through to the main restaurant and the full bar area, which has appeared in television productions including Cold Feet.

The food menu covers classic British brasserie dishes, market fish specials, seasonal fayre, and an extensive afternoon tea offering, alongside a full cocktail and Champagne list. Menus range from five-course feasts to buffets and canapés, and vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are available throughout. Decorations including balloons, table centrepieces, and photo backdrops are welcome.

Manchester Piccadilly is around a 10-minute walk, and the venue is right at the heart of Manchester city centre on York Street, close to the Arndale Centre and Royal Exchange Theatre. No on-site parking.

About this space:

The Bar is the main bar area at Browns Manchester on York Street, available for private hire with capacity for up to 150 standing guests.
Previously Parrs Bank, the building retains the striking high ceilings, ornate ironwork, and grand atmosphere of its original purpose, and the bar has been used as a location for television productions including Cold Feet and Who Do You Think You Are. A private hire of the bar gives a group the run of one of Manchester's most historically atmospheric drinking spaces, with the full cocktail and drinks menu available alongside bar food. Guests can bring their own Bluetooth speaker to play music. The bar is available for hire from 17:00 daily.

- Capacity: Up to 150 standing
- Historic banking hall with high ceilings and ornate ironwork
- Full cocktail menu and bar food
- Bring your own Bluetooth speaker (no in-house PA)
- Alcohol licence until midnight (extension available)
- Available from 17:00 daily
- No external catering, no BYO alcohol
- No on-site parking
- From £500 minimum spend (all prices include VAT)

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