8 Swan St, Manchester M4 5JN

About This Pub

Ah, Bar Fringe – what a hidden gem in the heart of Manchester! I've got to say, chatting about this place feels like sharing a secret with mates over a cold one. From what I've gathered from the buzz around it, this bar really nails the basics with an incredible lineup of beers, especially those Belgian delights that leave you craving more. It's got that perfect quirky charm inside, with vintage touches that make it feel warm and inviting, ideal for unwinding after a long day or catching up with friends. The crowd's always a mix, which adds to the fun and makes it feel inclusive without any fuss. And let's not forget, it's reasonably priced, so you can enjoy a few rounds without worrying about the wallet. On the flip side, though, the hours can be a bit of a muddle – one minute it's closing early, the next it's late, so you'd want to confirm before you go. Plus, their online setup isn't the strongest; I had a devil of a time trying to check their site, which might leave you flying a bit blind. Overall, it's a solid choice for beer enthusiasts, but if you're after something more varied, it might not quite hit the mark. Still, I'd reckon it's worth a visit for that authentic, no-nonsense pub experience – honest, it's got that feel-good factor that keeps you coming back.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The beer selection is absolutely spot on, with a fantastic range of Belgian and European brews that really hit the spot – it's like a little taste of the continent right in Manchester.
  • The atmosphere is so welcoming and quirky, with vintage decor that makes you feel right at home as soon as you walk in; it's perfect for a relaxed catch-up with mates.
  • It's got a friendly vibe where everyone from all backgrounds seems to get along, making it easy to just pop in, grab a pint, and chill out.
  • Prices are moderate, which feels like a breath of fresh air compared to some of the pricier spots around, so you won't break the bank.
  • There's a lovely beer garden out back for those rare sunny days, adding a nice outdoor option to enjoy your drink.
Cons
  • The operating hours seem a bit confusing from what I've seen, with varying times listed, which might make it tricky to plan a visit without double-checking.
  • Online presence is a tad lacking – the website didn't load properly for me, so it could be harder to get the latest info before heading over.
  • It's quite niche with a focus on beers, so if you're not keen on that style, it might not be everyone's cup of tea – more of a beer lover's haven than a all-rounder.

Contact Information

8 Swan St, Manchester M4 5JN
+441618353815
Bar
Closed

Opening Hours

Monday13:00 - 23:00
Tuesday13:00 - 23:00
Wednesday13:00 - 23:00
Thursday (Today)13:00 - 23:00
Friday13:00 - 00:00
Saturday13:00 - 00:00
Sunday13:00 - 23:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Great little bar selling the best beers from Belgium, it's about tk.e manchester had a bar dedicated to delicious beer, rather than the overpriced bandness elsewhere. Been x2 since discovering
JJ
James Jarvis
Nice quirky bar with lots of Belgian and European beers. Will visit again
SP
S Patel
Easy bar….great pub. Walk in grab a pint and a seat and chill drink some delicious Belgium beers and listen to the world go by. I really love this place it has a friendly atmosphere from people of all walks of life. Delirium is delicious too and it makes me want to visit Belgium 🇧🇪.
P
Pete
Tucked away in the Northern Quarter, Bar Fringe is one of those places that instantly makes you feel at home. The inside of the pub is decorated beautifully, with a quirky mix of vintage charm and character that gives it a warm, welcoming vibe. Every corner seems to have something interesting to look at, and the atmosphere is relaxed yet full of personality. What really sets Bar Fringe apart, though, is its beer selection—especially if you’re a fan of Belgian brews. The range is top notch, with an impressive variety of strong, flavourful options you won’t find in your average pub. Whether you’re into Trappist ales or fruity lambics, there’s something here to satisfy any palate. A perfect spot for anyone who appreciates great beer in a place with real soul.
MR
Milo Roberts
A consistently excellent pub in Manchester city centre. It offers up to 5 real ales on draft along with German and Belgium lager. Beer garden at the rear for the occasional sunny day!
AH
Andy Hazeldine

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