Established in 1801, this corner pub is handy for the Bridgewater Hall, so you’ll find bassoonists in penguin suits necking back the Jennings Cumberland Ale before nipping back for a bit of Beethoven. Hugely popular, its six-roomed interior is peppered with a 'Rogues’ Gallery’ of famous faces who’ve frequented it (such as Guy Garvey in our image above). There’s also a large mural of the Peterloo Massacre, which took place nearby. Simple, hearty food (check out the pies) and a terrific malt whisky selection adds to the allure.

This venue is listed in our Taste of Manchester Taste Charts: