16 Fountain St, Manchester M2 2AA

About This Pub

Ah, the Shakespeare – it's one of those pubs that just hits the mark for a good old get-together in the heart of Manchester. From what I've gathered from folks who've been there, the staff really stand out; they're chatty and attentive, making every visit feel personal, whether you're just nipping in for a gin and tonic or organising something bigger like a birthday do. The drinks selection is spot on too, with a great range of ales and cocktails that go down a treat, and the atmosphere blends that classic pub charm with a modern twist, making it ideal for watching the footie or enjoying a quiet chat. It's family-friendly and even welcomes dogs, which is brilliant for those spontaneous outings. On the flip side, it does get packed on popular nights, so you might end up queuing for a table or heading upstairs if the ground floor's buzzing. Plus, if you're keen on a proper meal, bear in mind the kitchen closes a bit early, and as a Greene King spot, it might not have the same bespoke feel as an independent local. All in all, it's a solid choice for us pub enthusiasts – worth a visit for the good times, just keep those little niggles in mind to set your expectations right.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The staff are absolutely brilliant – always friendly and welcoming, making you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.
  • They've got a fantastic selection of drinks, from cracking craft ales to perfectly mixed gins and tonics; it's a real treat for anyone after a quality pint or cocktail.
  • The atmosphere is spot on – a lovely mix of historic charm and modern vibes, perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening out, especially if you're catching live sports like the Women's Euros.
  • It's great for all sorts of occasions, whether you're popping in for a quick drink, planning a birthday bash, or even bringing the family along, with facilities that cater to everyone.
  • The pub's cosy and warm, especially on a chilly Manchester day, and it's dog-friendly too, so you can bring your furry mate for a pint-side adventure.
Cons
  • It can get a bit crowded at times, particularly on busy evenings or during events, which might make it tricky to find a seat if you're not planning ahead.
  • Food service wraps up fairly early, around 9pm most days, so if you're after a late-night bite, you might need to head elsewhere before last orders.
  • As it's part of a chain, it sometimes lacks that unique, one-off pub feel, which could disappoint if you're seeking something more quirky or locally distinctive.

Contact Information

16 Fountain St, Manchester M2 2AA
+441618607900
Pub
Closed

Opening Hours

Monday (Today)11:00 - 23:00
Tuesday11:00 - 23:00
Wednesday11:00 - 23:00
Thursday11:00 - 23:00
Friday11:00 - 23:00
Saturday11:00 - 23:00
Sunday11:00 - 23:00

Location

Recent Reviews

This is a great pub .. especially for a late afternoon /evening drink after shopping.. the atmosphere is perfect and lovely friendly staff.. I haven’t eaten here but the selection of drinks is excellent.. my go to place for a lovely Gin and tonic.. made really well by Lauren on the bar who gave us a very friendly welcome and she also came to check everything was ok..
WT
Wendii Tattum
We had a surprise birthday event here today for my partner, and everything went perfectly! The staff were exceptional—genuinely stellar vibes and great beer. Highly recommend this place, whether you’re just popping in for a drink or planning something bigger. Huge thanks to the staff for helping create such a wonderful experience! ♥️
JD
Jack Davies
Went for a classic pub vibe, and exterior looked promising so popped in. Wasn't disappointed. Nice classic pub food and cozy atmosphere, and excellent beer!
BC
Bjørn Christian Merwald Bertelsen
I dined yesterday with my 2 sisters in law. We knew the Shakespeare had been refurbished so were looking forward to trying it. No room on ground floor but they could fit us in upstairs. Had a lovely meal. Staff were very polite and made us feel welcome. Will definitely be visiting again soon.
GM
Gina McDowell
Came in here one day to escape the Christmas markets and have since found myself in here every time I’m in town! Lovely pub, old fashioned but modern with lovely little personal touches and great staff who are really friendly. They have a good wine list and it’s lovely and warm, especially when you sit by the fire. The breakfast was lovely and great value too! Definitely see myself becoming a regular!
SM
S M

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