Great outdoor spot
Anason
GlossopAnason is a Turkish-Mediterranean cafe which is fast becoming a local favourite for breakfasts, brunches and lunches in Glossop. Situated...
Horse & Jockey
ChorltonWith its Tudor-style facade and picturesque setting overlooking Chorlton Green, the Horse & Jockey has always had the potential to...
The Carrs
WilmslowThe Carrs is a large, 70-acre park on the edge of Wilmslow that's worthy of a day-trip even if you're...
Bruco
AncoatsBruco is a new Italian restaurant in Ancoats. It's modern and airy but the warm colours and friendly staff make...
Thornbridge Estate
BakewellType 'Rubber ducks Derbyshire' into Google and your first result is this place - handy if, like us, you keep...
Longshaw Estate
GrindlefordIf you're looking for eye-widening views of the Peak District and miles of contrasting countryside to explore on foot, take...
The Coffee & Cake Boat
CastlefieldThe Coffee & Cake Boat is a floating café moored on the Bridgewater Canal in Castlefield, serving freshly brewed coffee...
Barca Bar & Restaurant
CastlefieldFor its large drinks menu and stylish dining setting, Barca takes inspiration from the bar culture of Barcelona. Its canalside...
Bakers Vaults
Stockport Town CentreBakers Vaults may be a Robbie’s pub but it’s a different pint of ale from those hostelries so ubiquitous around...
The Good Rebel
Stockport Town CentreThe Good Rebel is part of the first wave of bars that put Stockport on an upwards curve of cool....
St Anne’s Beach
Lytham St Anne'sSt Anne’s Beach may be just down the Fylde coast from Blackpool but it's worlds apart in terms of atmosphere....
Thurstaston Beach
WirralA trip to Thurstaston Beach is more like a day in the countryside than at the seaside. Part of the...
Llandudno West Shore Beach
LlandudnoIt’s a shame that many tourists who visit Llandudno never make it to West Shore Beach. It doesn't have the...
Prestatyn Central Beach
PrestatynPrestatyn Central Beach is a great spot to take the children. There are a few amusements but it’s nothing like...
OWS Lake Burwain
FoulridgeOWS Burwain Lake offers wild swimming with the edges removed. You still get the stunning scenery and bracing cold water...
Ingleton Swimming Pool
IngletonIngleton Swimming Pool is a good option for a summer dip if you prioritise comfort over invigorating wild swimming sessions....
Ilkley Pool and Lido
IlkleyIlkley Pool and Lido is an Art Deco gem; its clean lines and geometric tidiness surrounded by the rugged outline...
Nantwich Brine Pool
NantwichNantwich Brine Pool is the ideal summer cool-down option if you want a cheap dip but aren’t up for wild...
Coombes Edge and Cown Edge
Peak DistrictSitting back-to-back on the boundary of the Peak District National Park, Coombes Edge and Cown Edge provide stunning views of...
Bamford Edge
BamfordHead to Bamford Edge for awe-inspiring views of the Dark Peak. This vantage point looks out over the Hope Valley...
Warton Crag
CarnforthFor expansive views of Morecambe Bay and up-close sightings of wildflowers and rare butterflies, head to Warton Crag Nature Reserve,...
The Carlton Club
Whalley RangeThe Carlton Club is Whalley Range. We’ve listed it as a pub, but it’s so much more than that. Originally...
Werneth Low Country Park
HydeWerneth Low Country Park is known for its stunning views across Tameside and Manchester. On a clear day you can...
Something More Productive
WithingtonYou'll find Something More Productive tucked away off Withington High Street, next to the post office. A meeting spot for...
The Rose & Crown Knutsford
KnutsfordThere's no shortage of ye olde pubs in Knutsford. The thatched roofed White Bear is the most ancient with a...
Lost and Found
KnutsfordLost and Found, an elegant restaurant and bar in the old town hall in Knutsford has mastered the art of...
Sizergh Castle
KendalSizergh Castle, or Sizergh - National Trust as they're calling it nowadays, sits just outside the southern boundary of the...
High Dam Tarn
FinsthwaiteHigh Dam Tarn, hidden in the fells north of Newby Bridge, is a dream spot for sunbathing, swimming and soaking...
Pavilion Gardens Buxton
BuxtonIt's the variety of attractions and things to do that make Pavilion Gardens Buxton special. This elegant Victorian park and...
On The Waterfront
WaterfrontOn The Waterfront is a four-day open air festival on Pier Head. It kickstarts the summer festival season in Liverpool,...
Parklife Festival
PrestwichIt's the big one, at least for the under-25s amongst us. Parklife is a huge two-day music festival held every...
Buckle and Boots
MarpleThis annual weekender on the edge of Stockport won the 'Best Festival' award from the British Country Music Association in...
Brockholes
SamlesburyBrockholes is the jewel in the crown of Lancashire Wildlife Trust’s nature reserves with royal visits and a fancy floating...
Gran T’s Coffee House Altrincham
AltrinchamGran T’s Coffee House Altrincham is a brightly-coloured all-day hangout on a pretty street. It’s inspired by the owner’s grandma...
The Roebuck Inn
MobberleyIn a little hamlet of cottages just outside Knutsford you’ll find The Roebuck Inn, an 18th-century pub that looks like...
Courts Club
Manchester City CentreWith basketball hire and live sports in the summer and ice skating in the winter, the only question we have...
Pennington Flash
LeighPennington Flash is Greater Manchester’s only National Nature Reserve. This wetland habitat, formed by flash flooding of former coal mining...
Skate Manchester
Manchester City CentreSkate Manchester in Cathedral Gardens will have you skating around its twinkly ice rink like you're the main character on...
Another Place, The Lake
UllswaterAnother Place, The Lake is a Lake District spa hotel that makes full use of its picture-perfect location on the...
Brimstone Hotel and Spa
AmblesideThe Brimstone Hotel and Spa is the ultra premium option at the already pretty posh Langdale Estate holiday complex. Built...
The Red Lion Inn
WhitworthThe Red Lion's location in Whitworth, Rochdale is semi rather than fully rural but in terms of character and style,...
Chatsworth
BaslowThe classic vista of the grand 17th century house overlooking the River Derwent is the most famous image of Chatsworth,...
The Ice Cream Farm
TattenhallWith more than 50 flavours of Cheshire Farm ice cream, The Ice Cream Farm is officially the biggest ice cream...
The Mobberley Ice Cream Company
MobberleyThe Mobberley Ice Cream Company specialises in a back-to-basics approach using milk, cream and sugar. No powdered flavourings, no artificial...
The Higher Buck
ClitheroeReliably good dinners are served at The Higher Buck, a pub meets gastro eatery where respected local chef Michael Heathcote’s...
The Inn at Whitewell
Forest of BowlandIt was the TV series The Trip starring Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon that made The Inn at Whitewell a...
Smithills Open Farm
BoltonIf you've ever wondered what you call a baby alpaca, or which is the biggest and most ferocious owl in...
Netherby Hall
CarlisleSituated in rolling countryside just south of the Scottish border near Carlisle, Netherby Hall is a luxury weekend break destination...
The Kings Arms
BlackfriarsThe Kings Arms is a glorious reincarnation of what was once a backstreet boozer. The main bar is a lovely...
The Crown & Kettle
Northern QuarterThe Crown & Kettle is Manchester’s most beautiful pub. The landmark Gothic building on the corner of Oldham Road and...
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
BlackpoolThe roar of the rides at Blackpool Pleasure Beach (and their accompanying screams) is the sound of Blackpool. With ten rollercoasters...
PUBLIC
Manchester City CentrePUBLIC is from the team behind Evelyn’s and The Daisy so you can expect quality cocktails - and you’d be...
à bloc
Altrinchamà bloc is a neighbourhood cafe near Stamford Park in Altrincham. It serves good coffee and brunch dishes but it’s...
Brickhouse Social
Manchester City CentreBrickhouse Social is a casual place that’s all about pizza, beer and good times. Situated just off Oxford Road, in...
The Smithfield Social
Northern QuarterThe Smithfield Social fits in well to the Northern Quarter bar scene. It doesn’t offer anything radically different but what...
Salford Watersports Centre
Salford QuaysSituated at Dock 8, Salford Quays, Salford Watersports Centre aims to make its activities accessible to everyone who wants to...
The Brotherhood of Pursuits and Pastimes
Manchester City CentreThe Brotherhood of Pursuits and Pastimes has a more grown-up look than most sports bars, all muted greens rather than...
The Black Friar
Manchester City CentreThe Black Friar stood empty and unloved for almost 20 years before reopening in summer 2021 after a substantial renovation...
Lingholm Kitchen & Walled Garden
KeswickLingholm Kitchen & Walled Garden is a great place to stop for lunch if you’re in the Lake District. The...
Wray
AmblesideWray is a great value day out near Ambleside. It’s a National Trust castle and parkland but entry is currently...
Victors Alderley Edge
Alderley EdgeVictors Alderley Edge is a wisteria-clad restaurant that’s perfect for people-watching. It’s relaxed but in a very glamorous, high-end way...
The Lawn Club
SpinningfieldsThe Lawn Club is a summery Spinningfields paradise with lots of outdoor space and fantastic cocktails. It’s also a winter...
The Britons Protection
Manchester City CentreThe Britons Protection pub has a place in the heart of many a Mancunian. It's been here since the early...
The Picturedrome
MacclesfieldThe Picturedrome is the Macclesfield spin-off of the popular food hall group behind Altrincham Market Hall, Market House Alty and...
TAPA
BollingtonTAPA is a small plates restaurant and bar. Don’t be confused by the name; the menu may be inspired by...
The Windmill
Whiteley GreenThe Windmill is a country pub with beautiful views and traditional British food that is definitely on the gastro end...
The Lime Tree Bollington
BollingtonThe Lime Tree Bollington is the sister restaurant of the acclaimed Lime Tree restaurant in Didsbury. It focuses on quality...
Sora Manchester
Manchester City CentreSora Manchester is a rooftop bar and restaurant serving up sushi, Pan Asian small plates and views across the city’s...
Evuna Knutsford
KnutsfordEvuna Knutsford brings together playful Spanish tapas dishes and an excellent wine offering.
Miss Dee’s Evoden Bar & Kitchen
ChorltonMiss Dee’s Evoden Bar & Kitchen is a relaxed Caribbean restaurant that offers excellent value considering its chi-chi Beech Road...
Bisous Bisous
ChorltonBisous Bisous is a renowned local but French patisserie and they have a café on Beech Road in Chorlton.
The Bridge
PrestburyLocated in a Grade II Listed building from 1626, The Bridge is full of charm, whether you’re going for a...
Fell Bar Chorlton
ChorltonManchester may pride itself on its Northern-ness but Fell Bar Chorlton is the southern outpost of the Cumbrian brewery and...
Smoak Coffee
ChorltonSmoak Coffee is a small coffee and bagel shop on Barlow Moor Road. The caffeine options are very good –...
Mr Fitzpatrick’s
RawtenstallMr Fitzpatrick’s is a venerable institution: Britain’s last temperance bar. If that makes you think of puritanical Victorians, fear not....
Finders Keepers
AncoatsFinders Keepers, a quayside bar at Islington Marina is the perfect sunny day spot. Its thoughtful seasonal cocktails are the...
Carden Park
ChesterCarden Park is one of the North West’s ultimate spa destinations. This place has won award after award, and deservedly...
Platt Fields Market Garden
FallowfieldPlatt Fields Market Garden is a muddy bit of the good life in urban Manchester. It’s a fantastic community growing...
11 Central
Salford Quays11 Central is another venture for Seven Bro7hers, only this time their Sis4ers are on board too so the bar...
Manchester Christmas Markets
Manchester City CentreYou don't have to walk far in Manchester city centre to find one of the many Christmas markets that pop-up...
Blanchflower Sale
SaleBlanchflower Sale is the second café from the purveyors of coffee, brunch and baked goods. It’s a good looking place...
The Bells of Peover
KnutsfordThere's a story behind the American and British flags that fly over the entrance to The Bells of Peover, a...
YES
Oxford RoadYES is a gargantuan place with four floors of fun. Despite that, it still has a low-key cool and something...
Aviva Studios, Factory International
Manchester City CentreAviva Studios is the new home of Factory International, the producers of Manchester International Festival. The impressive building was conceived...
Alderley Edge
Alderley EdgeThere are two very different Alderley Edges. One is a chi-chi town of footballers and wealthy socialites, the other –...
Rufford Old Hall
OrmskirkTudor house and garden Rufford Old Hall has all the classic features of a National Trust day out. Beautiful gardens,...
Pray Tell
SalePray Tell is a neighbourhood bar in Stanley Square, Sale. It’s the sort of place that all towns and suburbs...
Kargo MKT
Salford QuaysKargo MKT is a huge food hall in Salford Quays where 20 different street food traders ply their trade. With...
The Old Fire Station
SalfordThe Old Fire Station is a café, bar, bakery and brewery tap with a real community feel. It’s a part...
Heaton Hops
Heaton MoorHeaton Hops is a bar and bottle shop in Heaton Moor. The fridges are packed with bottles and cans from...
Track Brewing Co
PiccadillyTrack Brewing Co may be a bit off the beaten track but it’s worth the trek for craft beer aficionados....
Big Hands
Oxford RoadThe original Manchester dive bar, Big Hands is a rock n roll institution and the site of many messy nights...
San Carlo Alderley Edge
Alderley EdgeThe latest addition to the San Carlo family is the impressive £3 million Alderley Edge restaurant, boasting a sunlit dining...
Worsley Woods
WorsleyYou can spend a pleasant few hours wandering through Worsley Woods, a 30-hectare woodland with well-marked trails, ponds, a children's...
Snake Woodlands
Peak DistrictNot far after the road descends from the summit of the Snake Pass (the road between Glossop and Sheffield), you'll...
Etherow Country Park
RomileyIf you want a woodland walk complete with den-making, wildlife, picnic spots, and beautiful views, Etherow Country Park on the...
Gino D’Acampo 360 Sky Bar & Terrace
Liverpool City CentreSituated on the 18th floor of INNSiDE by Meliá on Old Hall Street, Gino D'Acampo 360 Sky Bar and Sky...
Burnt Milk Hotel
Albert DockBurnt Milk Hotel is the new face of wine drinking. Relaxed, unpretentious and with a great selection of natural wines...
The Rembrandt
Gay VillageOne of the originals of The Village, The Rembrandt, or Rem Bar, has been welcoming in Manchester's gay community since...
Grandpa Greene’s Luxury Ice Cream
DigglePerched by the canal in the picturesque village of Diggle, near Oldham, Grandpa Greene's is best known for its award-winning...
Via Manchester
Gay VillageFormerly Via Fossa, generally know as just ‘Via’, this is probably the most long-standing go-to bar on the main strip...
Sackville Gardens
Gay VillageThis small public park sits between Whitworth Street and Canal Street and is notable for its memorial to Alan Turing....
Hotel Anfield
AnfieldHotel Anfield is the perfect hotel for football fans. If you were any closer to the ground, you’d be in...
Alderford Lake
WhitchurchAlderford Lake is the perfect day out all year round. It’s an idyllic location but you won’t be able to...
Walkden Gardens
SaleWalkden Gardens is a very grown up sort of park. Like a mini RHS Bridgewater ran in partnership with the...
Motley
Manchester City CentreMotley is a bar and restaurant attached to Yotel on Deansgate. With its suntrap terrace, it’s definitely not just for...
The One O’Clock Gun
Albert DockThe One O'Clock Gun is a New York-style pub on the waterfront at Albert Docks. The name refers to a...
The Merchant
RopewalksThe Merchant is a lively hangout with great pizza. At the front, spilling onto the street, the outdoor tables under...
The Wharf
CastlefieldThe Wharf has one of the largest outdoor areas in Manchester and it’s in Castlefield, the canalside views aren’t bad...
Oh Me Oh My
WaterfrontWhether you're treating a loved one to champagne afternoon tea, or you're looking for somewhere with great views to inspire...
Rain Bar
Manchester City CentreRain Bar is a pub from JW Lees in an old umbrella factory. It’s a beautiful building and looks even...
The Deansgate
Manchester City CentreThe Deansgate is a bit of a landmark pub in Manchester, having been in this spot for 200 years.
Dukes 92
CastlefieldYou'll find Dukes 92 in the dynamic district of Castlefield, just a short stumble from Deansgate and its bustling bar...
Pappa Pepinos
Liverpool City CentrePappa Pepinos is part of the Selina Hotel. It’s a casual place serving Italian plates both small and large, and...
Cibo Hale
HaleCibo takes a leaf out of San Carlo’s book with its version of upscale Italian dining. It may be out-of-town...
Holmes Mill
ClitheroeLocated in the heart of Clitheroe, Holmes Mill is a bountiful food, drink and entertainment venue as well as a...
Alexandra Park
Whalley RangeAlexandra Park, or Alex Park as it’s known, was once rather shabby but has now been restored to something approaching...
Chorlton Ees
ChorltonChorlton Ees is a bit of a wild gem in such a densely populated area. If you’re lucky you could...
The Swettenham Arms
CongletonThe Swettenham Arms is in an idyllic location, right next to the Lovell Quinta Aboretum. The pub even has its...
Hathersage Swimming Pool
HathersageCatch the Hope Valley line train from Piccadilly to this picturesque Peak District village for a dip in Hathersage Swimming...
Manley Mere
FrodshamThis man-made lake used to be a field full of cows until the owners diversified their business model from dairy...
Wild Shore Delamere
DelamereIf you've never known the joy of flying over a lake on a rope swing and daring yourself to let...
Openswim UK
SaleIf you want to go swimming at Sale Water Park, the safest way is with Openswim UK. They hold casual...
The Pheasant Inn
TattenhallThe Pheasant Inn is a cut above when it comes to country pubs. Enjoy a drink in the sunshine looking...
Fox & Barrel
TarporleyThe Fox & Barrel is a traditional Cheshire country pub with seasonal food, a good wine list and some very...
The Dysart Arms
TarporleyThe Dysart Arms has roaring fires, antique prints, higgledy-piggledy bookshelves kind of look while being quite light and airy at...
The Fishpool Inn
NorthwichThe Fishpool Inn is just on the edge of Delamere Forest. Walk up an appetite and then tuck in to...
The Farm Club
PickmereThe Farm Club started life as a triathlon training centre before it expanded into offering a wider wellness experience. Situated...
Riva Blu Leeds
LeedsRiva Blu Leeds, an Italian restaurant on Park Row, used be part of the Gino d’ACampo chain before the north's...
Riva Blu Liverpool
Cavern QuarterWith its large alfresco terrace, island bar, and handsome architecture, Riva Blu Liverpool has a chic, continental feel inside and...
Piccolino Hale
HaleThere’s no shortage of reliably good restaurants in the Hale-Altrincham-Bowden triangle, and Piccolino Hale is up there with the best...
Piccolino Knutsford
KnutsfordPiccolino Knutsford fits in perfectly with the Italianate villas and chic shops of this quirky Cheshire town. Situated on the...
GRUB
Green QuarterHoused in a disused building at The Red Bank Project, GRUB is two floors of street food, bars and event...
Opera Grill
ChesterHoused in a Grade II Listed building with a neo-classical facade, Chester's Opera Grill is a grand, 400-seater restaurant from...
Foodie Friday Stockport
Stockport Town CentreFoodie Friday is Stockport's food and drink festival, taking place between 6-9pm on the final Friday of each month.
Sefton Park
Sefton ParkSefton Park is larger than most parks, although it’s still not Liverpool’s biggest – that award goes to Croxteth Country...
Born Up North
HeswallBorn Up North is known as bun. Makes sense. This Heswall eatery is a relaxed affair where it’s (almost) all...
The Waterside
EcclesThe Waterside restaurant moved to its current location in the beautiful village of Monton in 2007 and has become a...
The Didsbury
DidsburyThe Didsbury pub is a hidden gem in the heart of South Manchester. With its picturesque location on the former...
The Vincent Hotel
SouthportThe Vincent Hotel is a unique lifestyle hotel and stunning wedding venue in sunny Southport, home to the famous Royal...
Waterfront Southport Hotel
SouthportWaterfront Southport Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel overlooking Marine Lake, the Ribble Estuary and the Irish Sea. Established in...
Atlas Bar
DeansgateAtlas Bar is known as one of the originals of Manchester’s modern cafe-bar scene. And for its extensive collection of...
Tatton Park
KnutsfordTatton Park is a historic estate on the edge of Knutsford, home to an opulent neo-classical mansion, landscaped gardens, woodland,...
Lyme Park
StockportLyme Park is a huge estate with a Medieval herd of red deer, stunning views and a handsome Regency house....
Fletcher Moss
DidsburyFletcher Moss has four outdoor, floodlit clay tennis courts which are open to everyone and accessibly priced.
Mayfield Park
Manchester City CentreIt’s no secret that Manchester city centre is short on decent parks. The opening of Mayfield Park in September 2022 goes...
Riva Blu Manchester | Corn Exchange
Manchester City CentreFrom the same team behind Piccolino, Riva Blu Manchester aims to bring a little bit of La Dolce Vita to...
RHS Garden Bridgewater
WorsleyThe 2021 opening of this new 154-acre garden was greeted with much excitement and long queues, and rightly so. Once a...
Cafe Cotton
AncoatsLocated in the modern extension of the lovingly restored Halle St Peters in the heart of Ancoats, this award-winning independent...
Runway Visitor Park
AltrinchamFor spine-tinglingly close views of the huge planes landing and taking off at Manchester Airport, head to the Runway Visitor...
Dunham Massey
AltrinchamDunham Massey is one of the National Trust’s most visited properties, bringing in over half a million people in 2023....
Brewdog DogHouse Bar & Rooftop
Manchester City CentreThere are two ways to eat at the Doghouse, at the ground floor BrewDog Bar or upstairs on the rooftop....
BrewDog Doghouse Manchester Hotel
Manchester City CentreThe BrewDog Doghouse is brought to you by international beer makers, BrewDog. Claiming to be Manchester’s first carbon-negative “beer hotel”,...
Beeswing
Manchester City CentreBeeswing is a casual wine bar with a menu designed to complement the curated drinks list. Wines are carefully chosen...
The Greyhound Ashley
AltrinchamThis cosy country-style pub with ample outside space to enjoy a sunny pint or two is part of the JW...
The Rope & Anchor
AltrinchamRescued from the rural pub doldrums a few years back, Dunham Massey's The Rope & Anchor, close to Bowdon, Hale...
Corner & Bloom
DidsburySunny spots with seats, scran and a bit of sauce are few and far between, but this popular independent family-run...
Pot Kettle Black Barton Arcade
Manchester City CentrePot Kettle Black was born out of owners Mark Flanagan and Jon Wilkin's time spent travelling (and playing rugby) down...
Impossible
Manchester City CentreFirst and foremost a bar and nightclub, Impossible’s Instagram account is filled with a bevvy of posing beauties enjoying cocktails...
Burgerism at Escape to Freight Island
Manchester City CentreStarting life in a pick-up-only kitchen just off West Ashton St and Eccles New Road in Salford, Burgerism’s “lean, mean...
The Welsford Bistro
Georgian QuarterScoffing your brekkie in Britain's largest cathedral might leave you speechless, so it's just as well you don't have to...
Mamasan Liverpool
Liverpool City CentreSouth Asian cookery is on the cards here, or "a vibrant culinary offering", if you prefer. Three floors are accessed...
Another Hand
Manchester City CentreThere is quite some experience behind owners Julian Pizer and Max Yorke at Another Hand, including time spent at Cottonopolis,...
Minna
Lark LaneThis women-run family business is inspired by Molly's great nan Minna, who turned a plot of land behind her council...
Trattoria 51 Southport
SouthportMuch like the seaside town itself, Trattoria 51 Southport looks its best when the sun is shining. The terrace at...
Three Piggies Alehouse & Canteen
Mossley HillThe Three Piggies Alehouse & Canteen looks like a transplant from a Cornish surfer town with its flaking driftwood walls,...
Thoughtfully Cafe
RopewalksIndependent coffee shop Thoughtfully Cafe is just a few minutes walk from Liverpool ONE but it feels like a world...
The Watering Can
AigburthAt the entrance to Greenbank Park, with its lake and leafy vistas, The Watering Can offers both inside and outside...
The Restaurant Bar & Grill Liverpool
Liverpool City CentreWith its six foot chandelier and gold leaf ceiling Restaurant Bar & Grill Liverpool is one of the city’s most...
The Quarter
Georgian QuarterYou can't get much more picture perfect than the cobbledy Falkner Street in the cool boho Georgian Quarter and, with...
The Old Stables
AllertonThe old stable block of the leafy Allerton Manor estate is now a family-friendly restaurant offering British classics, Sunday roasts...
The Monro
RopewalksThe Monro has had a full restoration as of Summer 2024 and is now back in all its new old-fashioned...
The Green Man
Lark LaneThe Green Man pub opened on Lark Lane in December 2022, just in time for Christmas (and the World Cup)....
The Brunch & Cocktail Club
RopewalksBrunch Club by name, brunch club by nature – and those in the know make sure they book a table;...
St Luke’s Bombed Out Church Garden Cafe & Bar
RopewalksEverybody knows the Bombed Out Church, but just in case: hit by an incendiary bomb during the Liverpool Blitz of...
Sheldrakes
HeswallSat on the banks of the River Dee in rustic Lower Heswall, Sheldrakes was a sailing club until the river...
NoHo
Northern QuarterNoHo is far from the only NYC-inspired bar in the NQ, or even on Stevenson Square, but it was one...
PINS Social Club
RopewalksAs the name suggests, PINS Social Club is more than just a bar – and it's more than just a...
Pattersons
RopewalksFried chicken in a bar setting with a big emphasis on music, beer and cocktails - Liverpool independent Pattersons has...
Madre Liverpool
Albert DockThe world's greatest hand-held food is promised by Madre – tostadas, quesadillas and tacos tacos tacos. There's also all the...
Lunyalita
Albert DockSmaller and more intimate than the Liverpool One Lunya, Lunyalita overlooks the Albert Dock and is set over two storeys...
Factory Coffee
Manchester City CentreWhile lockdown marked the end for some businesses, for others it was a chance to expand into surprising new territories....
The Mews
Manchester City CentreThe Mews is one of a clutch of new places to set up shop on Deansgate Mews, or ‘deli alley’...
La Parrilla Lark Lane
Lark LaneLa Parrilla Lark Lane is the third opening for a local mini-chain that has had the honour of being voted...
Gusto Italian Liverpool
Albert DockWith views of the water and a menu that should have something for pretty much everyone, Gusto Liverpool is a...
Frederiks
Georgian QuarterOne of the buzziest spots in the Georgian Quarter, Frederiks models itself on the neighbourhood bars of Brooklyn. Think casual...
Six Trees Kitchen & Bar
StretfordPop in on your way back from the Trafford Centre – there's plenty to watch go by, and plenty of...
Salt House Tapas
RopewalksResiding on the corner of Hanover Street sits Salt House Tapas, a modern yet ambient take on the popular Spanish...
Dockleaf
Baltic TriangleDescribing itself as an urban local and claiming to have "the heart of a cocktail bar and the soul of...
HOME Restaurant
Manchester City CentreOne of Manchester’s flagship buildings, HOME is many things including cinema, theatre, art gallery and, of most interest to Confidential...
Buyers Club
Liverpool City CentreSquished on the cusp of the Knowledge Quarter and the Georgian Quarter and resident in the old Flying Picket since...
The Firehouse
AncoatsFound in the former E & A Auto Services garage depot on Swan Street, Firehouse is the sister restaurant to...
Freight Island
Manchester City CentreFood hall meets music festival is how we’d describe Freight Island to anyone confused about what they’ll find at this...
The Baum
RochdaleSituated in Rochdale’s Toad Lane conservation area, The Baum is a traditional pub that has one foot firmly in the...
Muse
OldhamLocal favourite Muse is an urban cocktails and small plates-style place up in the hills beyond Oldham, from the same...
Cuckoo
PrestwichLike the interloping bird that gives it its name, Cuckoo was an odd-one-out when it first opened in Prestwich back...
Ramona
AncoatsPredominantly a pizzeria, Ramona incorporates a bakery, margarita bar, coffee counter, stage and Firehouse restaurant, and is found in the...
Society
Manchester City CentreLocated in between St Peter’s Square and The Bridgewater Hall, Society brings new life to the quiet yet elegant stretch...
Terrace NQ
Manchester City CentreTerrace NQ has really grown into its name over the years. Instead of just one terrace up on the roof,...
Tre Ciccio Ramsbottom
RamsbottomTre Ciccio’s Ramsbottom restaurant does much the same thing as Tre Ciccio in Altrincham - and that’s no bad thing.
The Oast House
Manchester City CentreFrom the same stable as The Botanists around town, The Oast House boasts those "famous" Hanging Kebabs and, with its...
The Marble Arch
Manchester City CentreGeorge Orwell may have named his ideal (and imaginary) pub The Moon Under Water but Wetherspoons on Deansgate was not...
The Ivy Manchester
Manchester City CentreThe Ivy Manchester is an exuberant over-the-top place that’s perfect for glamming up and going out. The décor is wild...
The Gas Works Brewbar
Manchester City CentreThere’s no shortage of open kitchens on display in restaurants nowadays but few places can offer a working brewery as...
The Galloping Major
CheadleThree-course dining in the middle of the local park - lucky are the residents of Cheadle that they have The...
The Banyan Tree
Manchester City CentreSituated on the Castlefield-Hulme border, The Banyan Tree is a neighbourhood eatery that’s much appreciated by the people living in...
The Anthologist
Manchester City CentreThe Anthologist fits well into the cosmopolitan city vibe of the regenerated St Peter’s Square. When you step off the...
The Alchemist Salford
Media CityThe Alchemist at Salford Quays is the most recent of three Manchester venues and has an outdoor terrace overlooking the...
The Alchemist Manchester Spinningfields
Manchester City CentreThe Alchemist in Spinningfields was the original of three Manchester venues and has a good-sized outdoor terrace and plenty of...
The Alchemist Manchester New York Street
Manchester City CentreThe Alchemist on New York Street is the second of three Manchester venues and nicely turned out, with bags of...
Fumo
Manchester City CentreWith its terrace overlooking Oxford Road and its much-photographed spiral staircase, Fumo is a favourite spot in Manchester for dinner...
Quarter House
Manchester City CentreQuarter House is the place to go for some good old American BBQ flavours. Yes, so it’s a trend that...
Piccolino Caffe Grande Manchester
Manchester City CentreWith its terrace overlooking Albert Square and Manchester Town Hall, and a beautiful interior featuring a 40-seater private dining room,...
Piccolino Didsbury
DidsburyWith its large alfresco terrace, complete with a fully retractable roof, Piccolino Didsbury is perfectly located for an Aperol Spritz...
Mr Thomas’s Chop House
Greater ManchesterThomas Studd and his wife Sarah established their Chop House in booming Cottonopolis in 1867, and it's still going strong,...
La Cantina
Heaton MoorStockport is not Salamanca but that doesn’t stop the wooden barrel tables outside La Cantina on Heaton Moor’s busy Shaw...
Gusto Italian Cheadle Hulme
Cheadle HulmeGusto serves fresh Italian food in Cheadle Hulme and many other places. It’s part of a seemingly ever-expanding chain but...
Flok
Manchester City CentreIf it's a place in the sun you're after, look no further than the Northern Quarter's Flok, chilling out on...
Dimitri’s
Manchester City CentreDimitri’s has been serving up mezze for over 30 years now. It’s a stalwart of the city’s food and drink...
Banyan Spinningfields
Manchester City CentreBanyan in Manchester’s Spinningfields is a sleek and chic take on all day drinking and dining. From bottomless brunches every...
Banyan | Corn Exchange
Manchester City CentreBanyan in Manchester’s Corn Exchange has something for everyone and one of the best outdoor drinking and dining spots in...
Common
Manchester City CentreOne of the Northern Quarter's original hipster hangouts, Common – bar, eatery, coffee spot – has been at its Edge...
Edinburgh Castle and Bangkok Diners Club
Manchester City CentreThe food element of award-winning Ancoats pub The Edinburgh Castle has had several overhauls in recent years - but it's...
Albert’s Didsbury
DidsburyAlbert’s Didsbury always has a buzz about it. OK, so you won’t get the best food in the world but...
Albert’s Worsley
WorsleyAlbert’s Worsley is a reliable option, especially if you’re trying to please a big group. Even if you don’t get...
Brewski
ChorltonThe clue is in the name – Brewski is as much about the beers as it is the food. It’s...
Albert’s Standish
StandishAlbert’s Standish is a reliable option. You won’t get the best food in the world but you’ll get a menu...
The Klondyke Club
LevenshulmeNo round-up of Levenshulme’s social spaces could exclude The Klondyke Club AKA The Levenshulme Bowling and Social Club. This century-old...
Blanchflower
Altrincham'Create, don't curate' is Blanchflower's motto and to that end, much of their produce is made in-house.
Mort Subite
Greater ManchesterGiven the much-publicised dangers of drinking too much booze, it takes a dark sense of humour to name your bar...
WowYauChow
AltrinchamWowYauChow is a 'British Chinese' from accountant turned restaurateur Henry Yau which has become a firm favourite in Alty. The...
Libero
Greater ManchesterStarting life as a fun little pop-up, Libero is a football-themed craft ale bar which encourages its customers to don...
Altrincham Market House Indoor Food Hall
Greater ManchesterSetting a precedent for the likes of Mackie Mayor and Stockport Produce Hall, many have hailed the revamping of the...
Barbakan Deli
ChorltonThe folks at Barbakan have been nose to the grindstone for over 50 years - they were here long before...
Mary & Archie Chorlton
ChorltonMary & Archie Chorlton is a well-loved neighbourhood cafe bar, sourcing the best local ingredients for their famous 'all-day' brunch...
The Beagle
ChorltonThe Beagle is a bustling, eclectic, neighbourhood boozer which has recently replaced its Tex-Mex trash food menu with NYC-style pizza...
Bar San Juan
ChorltonBeech Road's Bar San Juan is almost always bursting at the seams with customers. This unassuming little tapas bar is...
Folk Didsbury
DidsburyFolk is a bit of an institution in Didsbury, having been on the scene for over a decade now. On...
Saison
DidsburySister of Chorlton favourite Dulcimer, Saison is a cosy bar offering a wide range of craft beer and spirits. They...
Seven Bro7hers Ancoats
Manchester City CentreThis bar on Cutting Room Square from the Seven Bro7hers Brewery clan is perfectly placed to cater for the craft...
Parkers Arms
ClitheroeThe Parker's Arms is a homely pub, serving and baking extraordinary, modern European food.
The Cartford Inn
PrestonThis historic coaching house serves adventurous British pub food in poetic configurations. The cooking at The Cartford Inn is by...
Oystercatcher
Chorlton“Doing lots of little things right” is a definition of perfection. And Oystercatcher - a simple seafood restaurant in Chorlton...
Bistrot Verite
SouthportBistrot Verite is a Brittany-influenced bistro with a penchant for fish. Brassy flavours meet seaside standards at this Gallic enclave...
The White Hart at Lydgate
LydgateThe White Hart at Lydgate is a rustic dining pub with an excellent reputation and wine list. Located 700 feet...
Eagle & Child
RamsbottomThe Eagle & Child is famous for offering excellent Sunday lunches and award-winning pub grub in the hills above Manchester.
