Hidden Gems to Discover in Manchester this Summer
Ziferblat, Edge Street, Northern Quarter
Derived from the Russian and German word Zifferblatt, which literally means ‘clock face’, Ziferblat is the UK’s first anti-café. Operating on a pay-per-minute basis, everything they serve is free and integrated in the price of your time spent there. The cosy, living room is hidden from the unassuming eye on the first floor of an office building, making it one of the more mysterious hangout places in city. What’s more, Ziferblat’s open space makes for a great destination for your out-of-office working days, so we definitely recommend giving it a try!
Hatch, Oxford Road
Ok, so this isn’t technically hidden, but Hatch is certainly one for the curious. As one of Manchester’s greatest hangout spots right now. the award-winning retail and leisure destination is perfect for long summer days rolling into the late evening. With its ever-rotating traders, it’s the go-to place if you’re on the hunt for independent retailers, delicious street food or just want to feel inspired in the sun. Oh, and the best part about it? Hatch has one of the best interior gardens in Manchester.
Yes, Charles Street
If you’re on the lookout for something completely different from anything you’ve tried before, say Yes to this independent music venue! Hidden inside the building of an old auction house and printer’s press, the four-floored hub is a creative and social space for all. Spread between a basement club, ground floor beer hall, live music pink room and an open roof terrace, it’s a great place to grab a drink and be part of the hottest gigs in the heart of the city.
Science and Industry, Thomas Street, Northern Quarter
Yet to be discovered by some, this speakeasy bar is hidden in plain sight behind the doors of Cane and Grain and definitely one to try this summer. Push the wall and you’ll be on the stairway to the secret cocktail bar which gives a peek into the past. The intimate and relaxed venue is the kind of place where history comes alive as it’s inspired by the American Prohibition of the 1920’s. A dedicated drinks laboratory has been created for experimentation with flavour and scientific techniques to develop a unique cocktail list.
The Washhouse, Shudehill
We’ve saved the most mysterious bar for last… If you search the Washhouse online, chances are you won’t be able to find out much about it. The super-secret bar is set within a laundrette with coin-operated washing machines and dryers and a 1970’s dial phone. To book a ‘washing machine’, a.k.a. table, you need to make a reservation where you’ll be invited to step through the machine into a cocktail wonderland. Let us know whether you are planning to pay them a visit, and we will be happy to help with a reservation for a night of mystery! Go on, give it a spin!
