Gullivers

As you come up along the Northern Quarter’s Oldham Street, you’ll spot gig venue Gullivers just across the road from one of its sister pubs The Castle. These two dens of music and iniquity, along with Salford’s Eagle Inn are run by the same crew and all three boast a welcoming atmosphere with ‘no gimmicks and no pretensions’.

Refurbed in keeping with original features, Gullivers has the feel of a ‘proper pub’ with green tiles covering the front and a hanging signboard illustrated with the image of Gulliver himself. A steady thrum of classics from the ‘fillerless’ quality jukebox mixed with the busy hum of laughing chatter will draw you in off the lively strip.

Head to your left as you go in and you’ll be greeted by a well-stocked bar and friendly bartenders ready to let you try an ale or three before you make up your mind. With a range of real ales and ciders, there’s plenty of choice in terms of local and guest brews.

Refused an ale house license back in 1865, this gig venue has fought for its right to party from the start and through the years as its incarnations as jazz club and transvestite bar. Gullivers have a history of going against the grain. Licensing justices banned an event back in 1952 when ‘Alan Hale’s Blue Note Jazzmen’ were deemed unsuitable for the delicate sensibilities of Manchester’s residents.

Cosy yet lively, Gullivers is a key feature of the Northern Quarter’s Oldham Street. This is the pub to visit if you like your entertainment choices interesting and varied.

Suitable for music-lovers with a fresh mix of comedy, theatre and the odd burlesque thrown in for good measure. Also suitable for cosy chats or a bit of people-watching. So grab a pint and wedge yourself into one of the windowed booths across from the bar.