This November, the inaugural Manchester Cocktail Festival is taking over the city for a seven-day tribute to local cocktail culture. Conceived by Liar’s Group director Nick Coupland and Speak In Code co-founder Ben Kendrick, the festival aims to channel the collaborative energy of major UK bar scenes into a homegrown showcase. Consequently, the programme highlights the visionary teams whose inventive drink menus have earned Manchester both national and international acclaim.
Starting on Monday 9th November, the festival will bring together an impressive roster of celebrated Manchester venues. Participating spots range from Hawksmoor, Blinker, and Stray to neighbourhood haunts like Winsome, The Morris, Bar Shrimp, and the newly opened Bar Dos.
Exclusive brand takeovers at Manchester Cocktail Festival
Throughout the week, participating venues will collaborate with premier global suppliers such as Bacardi, Diageo, LVMH, Schweppes, and Monin. Venues will present curated drink lists, intimate tasting sessions, and one-off dining experiences. Furthermore, high-profile guest bartenders will stage bar takeovers, giving patrons direct access to innovative serves and exceptional craftsmanship.
To join the events, guests must purchase an MCF 26 pass. This dedicated digital wallet pass allows holders to attend and reserve spaces at participating venues, including Double Down, Crazy Pedro’s, Cane & Grain, and Science + Industry. Whether patrons seek an impeccable martini, a vibrant margarita, or a completely new favourite bar, the pass opens doors across the city.
All the venues participating in Manchester Cocktail Festival
- Arcane
- Bar Dos
- Bar Shrimp
- Blinker
- Crazy Pedro’s
- Dahlia Stereo
- Double Down
- Exhibition
- Hawksmoor
- Le Coq Boutique
- Nest @ Sister Moon
- Red Light
- Science + Industry
- Speak In Code
- Stray
- Studio IV
- Tariff + Dale
- The Bay Horse Tavern
- The Daisy
- The Morris
- The Social NQ
- Winsome
Empowering the next generation of hospitality talent
Beyond lively parties, the organisers designed the event to deliver lasting benefits to the city’s trade workers. Industry pioneers will conduct specialised seminars and educational panels across the seven days. Consequently, ambitious bartenders can discover fresh inspiration, expand their technical knowledge, and refine their craft alongside seasoned mentors.
Moreover, founders Ben & Nick, have partnered with Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), Drinks Trust & CPL Learning, to provide allocated WSET Level 1+2 and Personal Licence qualifications within the week, rewarding those who are helping to shape the city’s hospitality industry.
Nick Coupland said: “MCF is part of a long-term vision for the city, it’s not just about getting people in a room for a one-off party every year, it’s about a considered week of events which will cater to all involved in Manchester’s hospitality scene – whether working within or regularly visiting venues.
“We want people to take something away from the festival and its associated events, and ultimately guests leaving with a wider appreciation for the skill and quality of venues and its people within their city.”
Ben Kendrick added: “We want this to be something that Manchester can be proud of – a celebration where all can get involved at different levels. Whether that is an up-and-coming bartender searching for inspiration and looking to develop their skills, or a festival pass holder heading out for a martini or margarita at their favourite cocktail bar – or maybe even discovering a new one.”
A full list of events and festival scheduling will be revealed next week. To find out more about Manchester Cocktail Festival, head to the website here.
