O’Connell’s

O’Connell’s is a new Irish bar which has opened on the site of the former Thirsty Scholar. This area just off Oxford Road used to be known as Little Ireland in the early 1800s. O’Connell’s and the new Mother Marys across the cobbles seem like a fitting reminder of the local heritage.

Inside, there are plenty of cosy snugs with wooden panelling and green leather upholstery in a nod to the Emerald Isle. There’s also a wall-to-wall whisky cabinet to give Irish whiskeys their due; they’re too often overlooked in favour of Scotch and cooler upstarts like Japanese whiskey.

There’s a large outdoor terrace which isn’t really sunny due to the railway arches but is at least sheltered which is perhaps more useful in Manchester’s climate.

Expect live music and lots of Guinness. Sláinte.