The Millstone

In central Manchester there are legendary pubs, and then there are legendary pubs. Then there’s The Millstone. In a neighbourhood that has long-since turned over to hipsters, urbanites, yuppies and trendies, this traditional British boozer continues to fly the flag for what the Northern Quarter used to be like. And that means down-to-Earth, welcoming, and always up for a good time. Run by JW Lees, the city’s biggest brewery — which operates some of its most stunning pubs — this spot is nothing if not North West through and through. 

Suffice to say, then, The Millstone has its share of regulars and they’ll argue until their last breath that this is the best place to grab a pint and experience an authentic side of our hometown. We’re not ones to disagree. On any given day, you’ll find the tables and chairs inside filled with a broad range of punters, all here for the same reason. They love the place. And they’re not alone. As featured in a book of Manchester’s Best Beers, and where to find them, the establishment is tucked away behind green frontage on Thomas Street, in and amongst throngs of independent clothes stores, sneaker emporiums, and craft brewery haunts. 

Pushing back against all that, if you get here at the right time of day — twice a day — one of the most iconic things about The Millstone is its passion for karaoke. Afternoon and evening sessions run all week, so you’re likely to walk in and find someone belting out something in either a semi-pro or amateur kind of way. And that’s all part of the fun and charm. Immediately setting you at ease, and confirming egos need to be left back outside, it takes a determined character not to find yourself getting involved should you opt to stay for more than one. And, let’s face it, nobody stays anywhere for just one.