24.1.25
Published: August 18, 2025
Where to eat, drink and unwind in Manchester in summer 2025
Author: abbie
Published: August 18, 2025
Author: abbie
Manchester in the summer is a lovely place to be. The streets fill up and terraces stay lively well into the evening. If you’re renting an apartment in Manchester city centre, this time of year puts the best of the city right on your doorstep. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to spend a long Saturday afternoon or a low-key spot for a midweek drink, here’s where to head, and why these places are worth your time.
Blacklock brings its cult London reputation and traditional British menu to the UK’s second city. Set in a Grade II listed converted warehouse on Peter Street, the interior is stripped-back brick and warm wood, with comfortable booth seating, unpretentious and familiar just like the menu: a celebration of the chophouse, a kind of Sunday-roasts-all-week approach to dining out. Perfect for a basics-done-well date or a post-work dinner that turns into another round, Blacklock is open every day for lunch and dinner (last seatings on Sunday at 7:30pm).
Some experiences are built for summer, and Alcotraz is definitely one of them. This immersive cocktail bar puts you in an orange jumpsuit and locks you inside a faux-prison cell, where you’ll smuggle in your own spirits and let the ‘guards’ mix you drinks of your choice.
Unlike your standard bar, there’s an element of live interactive theatre to proceedings, with guards, fellow prisoners and the warden all more or less in character throughout – something to enjoy if you’re tired of standard nights out.
When you want greenery and nature without having to leave the city, Heaton Park is the answer. Easily accessible by public transport (it even has its own tram stop on the Bury line), it’s one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, and on warm days it draws in half of Manchester.
The boating lake, well-kept rolling hills, cafés, country house and ‘secret’ garden centre give Heaton Park a character and feel beyond what you find in your average park. Bring food, bring a book, bring a friend, stretch out and enjoy. If you have kids, there are several great playgrounds, a treetop adventure course and even an animal centre to explore.
Located in Manchester’s bustling and eclectic Northern Quarter, The Head Spa specialises in Japanese scalp treatments: lie back in a darkened room while warm water and aromatherapy oils are used to massage and cleanse your scalp. There’s soft music, no small talk, and a level of calm you probably didn’t realise your nervous system needed.
If summer has you overstimulated, or if city-centre living feels too loud, this is a genuinely effective reset and an experience you won’t want to miss.
The Refuge spans 10,000 sq ft of drinking and dining space under one roof in the restored Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, offering versatile spaces from a lively Public Bar and cozy Winter Garden to private Dining Room, Den and event spaces.
The all-day menu is largely classic British ingredients, but with global inspiration, and all served in a gorgeous setting. There are dedicated vegan and gluten-free menus on offer too. Elsewhere, the Public Bar shifts from relaxed daytime coffee and co‑working to craft ales, cocktails and resident DJ nights later on.
Tucked away on Jackson’s Row, Speak in Code is one of Manchester’s most quietly impressive cocktail bars. Since opening in 2018, it’s earned a spot in the UK’s Top 50 bars more than once, and for good reason! The space is small, low-lit and warm, with exposed brick, dark wood, and a laid-back vibe – and central, too, for getting there and back again easily.
Down a back alley and behind an unmarked door, Wood & Company leans into the speakeasy trope that’s become more popular in recent years. Fans of whisky and classic cocktails can enjoy the focus craftsmanship and atmosphere, with a curated selection of spirits and well-prepared drinks. It’s a great place to unwind after work or meet friends for a quieter evening. The intimate setting contrasts with the busier bars nearby, offering a welcome change of pace.
Higher Ground is a rooftop bar and restaurant that shines in the summer months. It offers panoramic views across Manchester city centre alongside a menu of modern British dishes and refreshing drinks. The outdoor terrace is perfect for enjoying warmer evenings, whether you’re meeting friends or celebrating a special occasion, and its proximity to many of the apartments in Manchester city centre makes it a popular choice for residents wanting to soak up the city atmosphere.
Living in a Manchester city centre apartment means never being far from your next great meal, drink, or weekend plan. Select Residential offers modern rental apartments in the city’s most connected areas, ideal for making the most of a summer like this one. Each of our buildings features high-quality finishes and luxury amenities, from stylish studios to substantial three-bed layouts.
Already own a property through Select Property? Our lettings and management service makes things effortless from day one.
Get in touch with us today to learn more.
