Gullivers

There’s heritage, then there’s Gullivers. This Northern Quarter institution has sat close to the farthest end of Oldham Street in the same form since the 1970s. But the boozer itself dates back much longer. Originally a Wilson’s establishment known as The Albert Hotel, it was the renamed to The Grenadier for a time, before finally being bought out by Manchester brewery giant J.W. Lees and taking on its current moniker. A great example of the age-old adage, ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’, this bar-cum-stage has been perennially popular ever since, and is often one of the busiest and booziest destinations in this corner of town. 

Given where we are — a city centre neighbourhood with a huge range of music venues and drinking places — that’s certainly saying something. Many come here for the upstairs Ballroom and basement Lounge, alongside the main ground floor pub, just like its sister spot over the road, The Castle, Gullivers maintains a packed events programme most nights of the week. Descend into the belly of the building to catch alternative and independent theatre pieces or cutting edge stand up comedy a world away from Live At The Apollo’s commercial performers. Intimate to put it mildly, capacity is just 35 making for some of the most personal nights out in town. 

Those drawn here by the highly respected music diary are more likely to find themselves up above, where there’s room for 110 people. Bookings run the gamut of credible artists, from edgy and emerging hopefuls to renowned veterans who want to perform in front of a close quarters audience. Of course, a lot of people are here just because they want a beer, spirit, mixer, or some such. If that’s the case, you’ll soon realise Gullivers is truly beloved as a local hangout spot, with or without tickets.