A cocktail is for every occasion whether it’s celebrating with friends or letting your hair down at the office party. We pick out the top cocktail venues in Cheshire, Lancashire, Manchester and Liverpool
Épernay Manchester
Nestled within the heart of Manchester city centre, Epernay champagne bar is a luxury haven for cocktail lovers. With a list of over 80 different cocktails to choose from, indulge your curiosity or perhaps have a glass of vintage champagne. Their stylish balcony with excellent views of the city is perfect for watching the world go by on balmy summer nights.
Great Northern Tower, Unit 1A, Watson Street, Manchester, M3 4EE
Tel: 0161 834 8802, www.epernaychampagnebars.com
Oddfellows, Chester
The eclectically stylish Oddfellows in Chester is a wonderful venue to enjoy a cocktail or two. An unexpected oasis of tranquillity can be found in their landscaped Secret Garden. Here you will find a mix of contemporary furnishings, secluded areas, open fire pits and private cabins. It’s the perfect location to enjoy the evening sunshine with friends. For a more luxurious feel, book the Grown Up Bar by Taittinger. Situated on the first floor of this restored Georgian house and available for exclusive use only, this unique private terrace boasts amazing views overlooking the rooftops of the city.
20 Lower Bridge Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1RS
Tel: 01244 895700, www.oddfellowschester.com
Oxton Bar and Kitchen, Birkenhead
A true independent family business, Oxton Bar and Kitchen was founded in 2004. Visit to experience classic cocktails with a twist, along with local cask ales and locally sourced, freshly made food. Look out for the cocktails of the week at this stylish village bar, where previous drinks have included the delectable Cherry Mojito - to celebrate the bumper crop of fresh British cherries. They also have a reasonable sized terrace area; complete with heaters to keep you cosy when the sun goes down.
2 Claughton Firs, Oxton Village, Birkenhead, CH43 5TQ
Tel: 0151 651 2535, www.oxtonbar.co.uk
Manchester House, Spinningfields, Manchester
Lounge on Level 12 at Manchester House is ideal for those lusting for a post-dinner cocktail after dining at Chef Aiden Byrne’s restaurant on Level 2, or simply for those who want to have a drink in style. Fabulous panoramic views of the Manchester skyline will greet you as walk into the bright, contemporary bar. Their experienced bar tenders are on hand to serve you delectable cocktails, and we suggest to try their signature summer beverage, the Russian Spring Punch. This fresh and fruity champagne based cocktail muddled with fresh raspberries will taste divine whilst sat alfresco. If celebrating a special occasion, why not book your own private corner terrace to impress and entertain?
Tower 12, 18-22 Bridge Street, Spinningfields, Manchester, M3 3BZ
Tel: 0161 835 2557, www.manchesterhouse.uk.com
Salt Dog Slims and 81LTD, Liverpool
An emporium of world beer, bespoke cocktails and American style chilli dogs, Salt Dog Slims is the epitome of cool. Despite its size, this bar packs a punch with personality, eclectic music and tasty cocktails to match. Our favourite? Try either the St.Tropez Sour or the fruity Purple Aki Punch. If celebrating or just looking for something slightly more VIP, why not get onto the guest list for the elusive 81LTD upstairs. Another world of delectable cocktails, walk along the mirrored hallway after receiving your exclusive code to access the secret bar behind the steel door.
79 Seel Street, Liverpool, Merseyside L1 4BB
Tel: 0151 709 7172, www.saltdogslims.com
The Bubble Room, Alderley Edge
Located on the high street of Alderley Edge village, shabby-chic The Bubble Room is a fun, vibrant place to stop off with friends for a cocktail, or glass of champagne. Their spacious alfresco drinking area is a sun trap during the summer months, and is an ideal place to spend the afternoon sipping your favourite drink. Make sure to try their Baby Pink Martini. Made from Botanical Rose Petal Vodka, 50p from each cocktail is donated to Cancer Research UK.
47 London Road, Alderley Edge, Cheshire, SK9 7JT
Tel: 01625 583 399, www.thebubbleroom.co.uk
Residence Restaurant and Bar, Nantwich
A former home of the Lord Mayor of London, this 16th century mansion is the definition of opulence. Residence’s list of cocktails reflects an extensive, eclectic array of styles, but their helpful bar staff are more than willing to create your own specific drink. Select your perfect tipple and take a seat on one of their large open terraces to enjoy the afternoon sun.
9 Mill Street, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 5ST
Tel: 01270 629100, www.residence.uk.com
Cloud 23, Deansgate Hilton, Manchester
Located in the Hilton at Deansgate, Cloud 23 truly is an unforgettable experience. With signature cocktails and the finest champagnes, cool vibes and a stylish soundtrack, it is the perfect place to unwind. Their signature range of cocktails, devised specifically by Cloud 23 mixologists, has been inspired by Manchester’s heritage and the city’s proud tradition as a cradle of invention. Why not sample a Gold Phantom, created in memory of Henry Royce who opened his first workshop in Hulme in 1884.
Beetham Tower, 303 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4LQ, UK
Tel: 0161 870 1670, www.cloud23bar.com
Alma de Cuba, Liverpool
Located in the former St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, this restaurant and bar captures the diverse mix of Cuban, Hispanic, and Latin American influences within their food menu and fabulous cocktails. Their extensive list of drinks will keep you dancing all night, just in time for the rose petals to fall from the ceiling of a Friday and Saturday evening.
St Peters Church, Back Seel Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 4BH
Tel: 0151 702 7394, www.alma-de-cuba.com
Northcote Manor, Ribble Valley
Gin lovers should head to the plush new cocktail bar at the Michelin-starred Northcote in the Ribble Valley which stocks over 28 different gins. The differing seasons are reflected in the botanicals used.
Northcote, Northcote Road, Langho, Blackburn, Lancashire, BB6 8BE
Tel: 01254 240 555 www.northcote.com
The Botanist
Possibly one of the prettiest chain of cocktail ars in the north, The Botanist creates delicious cocktails that don’t just taste good – they look good. Take a visit to the Alderley Edge bar and enjoy champagne or fruity and floral inspired creations and even a bite to eat from their food menu. If visiting with friends, why not try a watering can? Designed for four to share, combine your evening tipple with a spot of ‘gardening’.
15 London Road, Alderley Edge, Cheshire, SK9 7JT 01625 865 637, thebotanist.uk.com/location/alderley-edge
The Vincent, Southport
An icon on Lord Street, The Vincent is the perfect place to go for a classy cocktail. Served in a cool and contemporary setting, it’s definitely the place to see and be seen. Take a seat in the Tony McGee bar and lounge where you’ll feel at home with the über cool ambiance and chic cosmopolitan cocktail list.
98 Lord Street, Southport, PR8 1JR
Tel: 01704 883800, thevincenthotel.com
Milton Club, Manchester
A luxurious modern day members club located in the heart of Manchester, the Milton Club serves up an exceptional choice of cocktails and spirits on their impressive main bar. From classic cocktails and contemporary creations, their menu changes seasonally to produce the best drinks. Book a booth for the night or try their Milton Master Class, a great way to start a night out.
244 Milton Hall, Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4BQ
0161 850 2353, www.themiltonclub.co.uk
The Alchemist, Manchester
The original Alchemist, they have now opened another three locations, including a bar in London. However, you know what they say; the original is still often the best. Open first thing for breakfast and coffee to dinner and drinks late at night, you will be wowed by their team of experienced mixologists who will create fantastic cocktails for you. We recommend the Smoky Old Fashioned.
3 Hardman Street, Manchester, M3 3HF
0161 817 2950, thealchemist.uk.com
Mr Cooper’s House and Garden, Manchester
Mr Cooper’s bar staff create their own bespoke liquors, giving customers a drinks experience that matches that of executive chef Simon Rogan’s dishes.Using scientific methods and modern techniques means the bar adheres to the same standards as the kitchen.
The Midland Hotel, Peter Street, Manchester, M60 2DS
0161 932 4198 www.mrcoopershouseandgarden.co.uk/bar
Tell us about your favourite cocktails in the North West, leave a comment or tweet @cheshirelife or @lancashirelife
