Exciting Things to Do in Manchester for Birthday

Wondering where to eat in Manchester for your birthday? We have got you covered! Whether you prefer a lively atmosphere or a quiet, romantic dinner, Manchester’s dining scene has something to make your birthday truly remarkable. Here is our guide of some of the best places to celebrate your special day!

If you love Sushi, and looking for things to do for birthday in Manchester, then invite your friends for lunch in Cottonopolis. The place offers brilliant Pan Asian food in a vibrant and stylish setting. Located inside a Grade II listed Victorian building, the restaurant features high-quality sashimi, great cocktails, and a unique ambience with a disco ball at its centre. The decor blends industrial chic with historical charm, creating an inviting atmosphere. As the evening progresses, Cottonopolis transforms into a lively venue with a DJ and great music, turning the restaurant into a dance floor. This makes it an ideal spot for those looking to combine delicious dining with a fun night out. The menu is filled with creative Pan Asian dishes, including sushi, sashimi, and small plates that are perfect for sharing with friends.
Location:16 Newton Street, Manchester M1 2AE England
Cuisine: Asian
Rating:4 (Tripadvisor)

The Ivy in Spinningfields is a luxurious venue with two private dining rooms and three floors of restaurants, offering a variety of dining experiences. Depending on the size of your party and your culinary preferences, you can choose from the ground floor brasserie with its traditional menu, the second floor with Pan Asian cuisine, or the rooftop terrace for smaller, more intimate meals. Each floor provides a unique atmosphere, ensuring that your birthday celebration is tailored to your preferences. The elegant decor adds to the sophisticated vibe with its lush greenery and stylish furnishings. The Ivy’s extensive menu includes classic British dishes, Asian-inspired plates, and an impressive selection of cocktails, making it a versatile choice for any celebration.
Location: The Pavilion, Byrom St, Manchester M3 3HG, United Kingdom
Cuisine: British
Rating:4 (Tripadvisor)

3.King Street – El Gato Negro
El Gato Negro is a renowned restaurant known for its exceptional tapas and vibrant bar scene. Spread over three floors, it features a ground-floor bar, a second-floor dining area, and a third-floor rooftop that opens up to create an outdoor space. With fantastic cocktails, great sangria, and a wonderful wine list, El Gato Negro is perfect for a sunny day celebration. The famous tapas, especially the beef cheek, are dishes you’ll dream of long after your visit. The decor combines rustic Spanish elements with contemporary design, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The rooftop, with its retractable roof and al fresco dining options, is an ideal spot for a summer birthday celebration.
Location:52 King St, Manchester M2 4LY, United Kingdom
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Rating:4.5 (Tripadvisor)

Erst is a cool restaurant and wine bar located in one of Manchester’s trendiest neighbourhoods. The restaurant offers seasonally changing small plates that receive rave reviews consistently. Set in the vibrant area of Ancoats, Erst provides not just a culinary experience but also entertainment with nearby bars, restaurants, Victorian warehouse buildings, and canal walks. It’s the perfect spot for an entire weekend of celebration. The minimalist decor, with its open kitchen and communal tables, encourages a relaxed and sociable dining experience. The menu focuses on locally sourced ingredients, with dishes curated to be shared, making it an excellent choice for a laid-back birthday gathering.
Location:9 Murray Street Ancoats, Manchester M4 6HS England
Cuisine: Multi-cuisine
Rating:4.5 (Tripadvisor)

20 Stories, located on the rooftop of No. 1 Spinningfields, offers a stunning panoramic view of Manchester’s skyline. This glamorous venue features a fine dining restaurant, a relaxed grill, and an expansive terrace bar. The sophisticated decor, with floor-to-ceiling windows and elegant furnishings, creates a luxurious atmosphere perfect for a special celebration. The menu boasts a contemporary menu with locally sourced ingredients, and the extensive cocktail list ensures there’s something for everyone. Celebrating your birthday at 20 Stories allows you to enjoy an exquisite meal while taking in the breathtaking views, making it a memorable experience.
Location: No. 1, 1 Hardman St, Manchester M3 3EB, United Kingdom
Cuisine: British
Rating:4 (Tripadvisor)

While these were some of the best places to wine and dine in Manchester, we have also listed a few exciting activities you can experience along with your friends and family on your special day! 

Yes, it is just as fun as it sounds. Relive the 1980s TV show and work your way through the Crystal Maze in Manchester. You can book in as a big group or if it’s just a few of you. The experience is interactive and immersive, with themed zones that challenge your physical and mental skills. Whether it’s solving puzzles or completing physical challenges, this activity guarantees a memorable birthday adventure. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of teamwork, fun, and nostalgia.

Axe Throwing

Let your anger loose on the wooden target boards at Whistle Punks. Your group gets real-life-size axes to lob at a wall. It’s definitely thirsty work, and there’s a thrilling satisfaction in hitting the bullseye. Whistle Punks provides a safe and controlled environment with expert instructors to guide you through the techniques. The venue also has a bar where you can enjoy drinks and snacks between throwing sessions, making it a unique and exciting way to celebrate a birthday.

Breakout Rooms

Get your brains working by choosing from the rooms in Breakout Manchester. Each has a different theme and level of difficulty, so you can choose your challenge based on your group’s preferences. From escaping a haunted house to solving a crime mystery, there’s a room for everyone. It’s a great way to test your problem-solving skills and teamwork. The excitement of beating the clock and escaping the room adds an element of thrill to your birthday celebration.

Genting Casino

Take your friends on a casino night out at Genting Casino. Based in the centre of Manchester, it’s easy to walk to from the surrounding bars and restaurants. It’s also open late and serves drinks all night, providing a glamorous and thrilling experience. Try your luck at various games like poker, blackjack, and roulette. The sophisticated ambience, combined with the excitement of gambling, ensures a fun and memorable birthday night out. Don’t forget to set a budget and gamble responsibly!

Parthian Climbing

Fancy something a little different? This climbing wall is in an old church, so as you climb the four-storey high climbing walls, you pass the huge stained glass windows. It’s so beautiful and such a unique experience that it really is a must-see. Parthian Climbing offers routes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced climbers. The knowledgeable staff provides safety instructions and tips, ensuring a fun and secure experience. It’s a great way to combine fitness and fun, making it an ideal birthday activity for adventure enthusiasts.

Celebrating a birthday in Manchester? The city offers a fantastic array of bars that are perfect for making your special day unforgettable. Whether you’re into dancing the night away, enjoying live music, or having fun with games, Manchester’s vibrant bar scene has something for everyone. Here are some of the best bars to check out for a memorable birthday celebration.

Northern Quarter – Twenty Twenty-Two

Looking for a fun and unique spot to celebrate your birthday? Head to Twenty Twenty-Two in the Northern Quarter. This basement bar is perfect for playing ping pong until 2 am, dancing to great music, and enjoying flowing drinks all night long. It’s the epitome of a cool Northern Quarter bar where everyone has a blast.

Spinningfields – Oast House

If the sun’s out, Oast House in Spinningfields is the place to be. With its huge outdoor seating area and live music throughout the summer, it’s perfect for a lively birthday celebration. In winter, the courtyard transforms with big tents, cosy fire pits, and warm blankets, creating a fantastic atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

King Street – Flight Club

For a birthday full of games and fun, check out Flight Club on King Street. This isn’t just a bar; it’s a whole night of entertainment with activities like darts in an electric atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to keep everyone entertained and make your birthday memorable.

We’ve highlighted the top restaurants, activities and pubs in Manchester perfect for celebrating your birthday, each chosen for their unique ambience, exceptional cuisine, and ability to create unforgettable dining experiences. 

However, if you’re in the mood for a more intimate gathering at home, Yhangry offers exceptional chef service and catering options for birthday celebrations. With Yhangry, you can enjoy a personalised dining experience crafted by a professional chef in the comfort of your own home. This service ensures that your birthday is just as special and memorable without the hassle of cooking or cleaning up. Whether you choose to dine out or celebrate at home, Manchester has plenty of options to make your birthday truly extraordinary.