Big Hands Manchester
I know you’re the one
Now for something truly special. Big Hands is an unpolished, bustling, vibrant dive that has been my drinking buddy these last 22 years and is the best bar in Manchester, (big) hands down. Sorry.
Looking like a living room in a time warp from the street, Big Hands is almost invisible in daylight. Its purgatory location between the city centre and studentville Fallowfield often means planning a diversion to visit.
Countless bands and musicians who’ve played next door at Manchester Academy down the years have popped in for a post-gig drink.
These include the likes of homegrown artists such as Guy Garvey and, legend has it, Frank Black of Pixies. He apparently played an impromptu set on the street outside during a tour with the Catholics in the early noughties.
Big Hands has survived down the years because it does several things well. Great beer, excellent music and vinyl DJ slots, the occasional live band and an uncompromisingly gritty spirit that scrubs up for nobody.
Throw in its roof terrace, packed with plants and flowers, and it's a watering hole for all seasons.
It's also hosts Rizzo's Sicilian Food from a hatch on the rooftop at the weekend for fat pizza slices or crunchy arancini.
Visit if you like, it doesn’t really care. This place dances to its own beat, no matter what's going on in the world around it.
But take the time to pop by and it will always welcome you with open hands.
About this spot
308-310 Oxford Rd
- Mon - Thu 12:00 - 02:00, Fri & Sat 12:00 - 03:00, Sun 15:00 - 03:00
Per pint approx:
£
5.20
1612727309
Find your way with 63 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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