Did you know that there’s a hidden fairy-lit street up a small flight of stairs just off Deansgate? Deansgate Mews is probably one of the city’s best kept secrets, as just a short detour from town will land you on the sprawling hidden road. It’s complete with Michelin guide restaurants, state-of-the-art music studios and al fresco bars, and, this weekend, it will welcome the return of Deansgate Mews Festival.
Taking place from Friday 26 – Sunday 28 May, Deansgate Mews Festival 2023 is free to attend and celebrates some excellent forces in Manchester’s food, drink and music scene. Across the three-day party, Lions Den and Low Four Studios – two residents of Deansgate Mews – will open up their venues for a number of acts and DJs, and food and drink will be provided by neighbouring venues, including; The Mews, Acai and The Tribe and Another Hand.
Already confirmed for the line-up at Lions Den’s outdoor stage is Mancunian indie rock band, Strawberry Lemonade, North London-based band, The Social Club, and indie five-piece, The Publics. At Low Four, visitors can catch performances from William KZ supported by Bright Light Rooney, Dan Disgrace, Nikki & The Waves, Jackie Moonbather, NOISETTE, Terry Venomous, Hank Stankovic, and more.
With temperatures looking to soar across the bank holiday, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of some al fresco dining, too. Across the festival, The Mews Bar will be offering boards of charcuterie and a summer wines list, and Michelin Guide restaurant Another Hand will serve a range of refreshing summer tipples alongside locally sourced small plates. Those heading down early can also grab nutritious smoothie bowls and coffees from Acai and The Tribe.
Celebrating more homegrown Manchester talent, Deansgate Mews Festival will welcome independent brands at its pop-up Gift Emporium. The pop-up will offer spring arrangements from florist Bah Florals, artwork from The Lemur Arts and Helen Jones Art, embroidered pieces by Hoop and Fred, vintage clothing and accessories from NoWear To Go and eyewear from St Ann’s Square’s IOLLA.
All fees made over the weekend will be donated to community charity Forever Manchester, a Manchester-based charity dedicated to raising money to fund and support community activity across the region.
Speaking about this year’s event, Mark Schofield, Centre Director for Great Northern Warehouse, said: “Following on from the success of previous years, we are delighted to once again be hosting Deansgate Mews Festival. We hope to welcome locals to enjoy a free weekend of music and socialising, alongside the best of outdoor dining, drinks and shopping that Great Northern Warehouse has to offer.
“Deansgate Mews Festival will continue our culinary celebrations and provide a fun day out for the whole family this May Bank Holiday.”
