Situated on the prized border between the Northern Quarter and Ancoats, The Wayfarer is a modern neighbourhood watering hole, that couldn’t get more central if it tried. While the place itself is a 21st Century addition, it takes a lead from century-spanning traditions and heritage that define the neighbourhood pub experience. And that means a busy programme of events alongside the generous choice of tipples behind the bar.
“With a mix of permanent taps, including the perfect Guinness and reliable lagers, and rotating lines from local breweries, there’s a pint for every taste. Our wines are well-rounded, pulling from French and Italian lineages, but including Eastern European and South African drops,” the team proudly explain, before moving to a cocktail menu packed with “all your favourite classics as well as seasonal signatures”. The Wayfarer also run a daily happy hour from 6-9pm, which gets you 2 for 1 on cocktails, a glass of Castelnau Champagne for £5 (£30 a bottle) and a £4.50 house pint – we know where we’re going after work. A large section of gins and whiskies are another big selling point.
Drinks done, for now at least, like most things even remotely Northern Quarter, The Wayfarer is keen on a full-blown knees up, and packs its calendar with numerous special one-off and recurring events. That could be pre-parties for bands playing at any one of the cherished venues nearby, DJs on a Friday and Saturday night, or ‘holiday’ observances. On the first Wednesday of every month, The Wayfarer host a quiz night in collaboration with Jubel Beer. Featuring daft rounds and fun questions, the top prize is a night out with Jubel worth over £200. To get involved, just message them on Instagram. Laidback the rest of the week, but somewhat livelier — with “banging tunes” — when the weekend hits, it’s just as well-suited to the quiet pint crowd as it is the sing-a-long Saturday crew. There’s also a cosy space downstairs that is available for private bookings, which has been used for everything from birthday parties to corporate gatherings, with options to include food made to order, DJs and more.