Located in Albert Square, in the shadow of Manchester Town Hall at the heart of the city, Founder’s Hall is a place to meet, eat, drink, and pay respect to John Lees, founder of JW Lees, one of our hometown’s most iconic breweries with more than 200 years of history behind it. As you would expect, then, there’s an impressive selection of beers on offer, showcasing the very best of what the business does, from traditional brews to cask ales and craft lagers, including small batch Boilerhouse lines.
Although Founder’s Hall is located in a modern building, its interior reflects the heritage this part of town is known for. White and black tiled floors, dark wood fixtures and fittings, low uprights and a bar area that speaks to classic pub aesthetics. It’s also a good size, which is good as this is where the action is: there’s no table service in another nod to authentic English watering holes. In addition to the wide range of beers served in halves, pints, or flights, you’ll also find a strong choice of wines and a great cocktail list. Better still, the knowledgeable staff are more than capable of advising and guiding, not just mixing and pouring.
Tipples aside, Founder’s Hall also offers a broad menu of homemade dishes leaning into seasonality. Think mature cheddar & JW Lees ale fondue, black pudding scotch egg, Thai honey halloumi fries, crispy chicken wings, sticky stout pork belly bites, and that’s just for starters. Beyond those, find beer battered fish and chips, the Philly steak sandwich, brewery tower burger, and some top pies — three cheese and onion, braised British steak and ale, or spiced cauliflower. Add to this, a sizeable al fresco area overlooking beautiful Albert Square, and packed calendar of weekly and monthly events, including the famous Joe McGrath quiz night and ambient DJ sessions, and you understand why everyone’s such a big fan.