Kampus is one of central Manchester’s most successful newly planned neighbourhoods, and a big reason it has been so well received is the way it fits in with, rather than imposes itself upon, the surrounding area. Which, of course, has a strong identity all of its own as the Gay Village. A few blocks of historic red brick warehouses long-since converted into loft living homes, all-night party palaces and late-licensed watering holes. Bridging the gap between old and new, Red Light is a discreet back alley liquor joint that specialises in specialist cocktails and a vibe that screams ‘hiding in plain sight’.
Set inside a typically palatial building the Victorians used for storing stuff, the name Red Light is a nod to the area’s sketchy history as a clandestine red light district, and sets the tone well — a judgement free, laidback lounge that welcomes all providing they respect each other and the establishment. Not to mention the mixologists employed as bartenders — artists in their own right, responsible for landing this spot on various lists of Britain’s best cocktail bars.
Not only are the drinks of an impeccably high standard, the tunes at Red Light are another serious selling point. Honing in on disco, its variants and offshoots — cosmic, space, kraut, sludge, chug, straight-up and, of course, house music — during warmer months the beats and booze alike spill out onto the streets, with the outdoor seating area another big plus point here. A real gem in one of our favourite corners of town for all things edible and drinkable, it’s also worth noting that the bar is dog friendly, they pour £8 Martinis every Wednesday from 4pm – 9pm, and this place is just as well-suited to an intimate date night as a stop off on a grand crawl through Manchester’s more elevated alcohol scene.