Hi
Me and 5 of my friend are planning to go to Manchester for my 30th for one night eitheir the Saturday or Friday night!. I used to live and work in Manchester about 7 years ago as cabin crew so used to spend time there with colleagues and always had a fab night and it would be great to relive some old memories.... but no doubt it has all changed now. I would really appreciate if anyone could give me any recommendations of what bars/clubs to go to in the village I used to go to Mantos, Via Fossa, Hollywood Show Bar and Cruz 101. I have been thinking it would be good to go to a bar that has some sort of show or entertainment on!
I would like to know which would be the better night in the village either the Friday or the Saturday can not afford both nights, which is the most lively?!! Also good, reasonably priced accommodation located close to the village.
Thanks
Cassandra

First of all, whilst it has changed a lot in the last 7 years in terms of bars coming and going, The Gay Village is still pretty much the same, concentrating around Canal Street, Sackville Street and Bloom Street, albeit somewhat more popular with the straight crowd.

Interestingly Manto has closed down and re-opened in the time you've been away, whilst Via (as Via Fossa is now known), Hollywood Studio & Lounge (the rebranded Hollywood Show Bar) and Cruz 101 are all still there.

For entertainment, there's normally loads to choose from but Hollywood Studio & Lounge or Manhattan Show Bar are your obvious choices. The Birdcage near The Printworks at the other end of town is a brand new alternative.

Friday or Saturday? Take your pick - both as good as each other in my opinion.

And as for hotels near Canal Street, click here.

Have a great birthday.