The New Union, Cheshire Travel Guide

4.2 (549)

Historic LGBTQ+ pub and showbar in Manchester’s Gay Village, blending classic charm with vibrant nightlife and welcoming community spirit.

Located at 111 Princess Street in Manchester’s vibrant Gay Village, The New Union is a historic pub and showbar known for its welcoming LGBTQ+ atmosphere, lively drag cabaret, karaoke nights, and late-night dancing. Established in 1860, it offers a blend of traditional pub charm by day and energetic nightclub vibes by night, complete with pool tables, DJs, and themed events.

A brief summary to The New Union

111 Princess St, Manchester, M1 6JB, GB
Click to display
Click to display
Duration: 1 to 5 hours
Budget
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 12 pm-10 pm
Tuesday 12 pm-2 am
Wednesday 12 pm-2 am
Thursday 12 pm-2 am
Friday 12 pm-6 am
Saturday 11 am-6 am
Sunday 11 am-4 am

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The New Union.

Visit on Fridays or Saturdays for late-night dancing and DJ sets that often run until early morning.
Enjoy the drag cabaret shows on Sunday nights for a quintessential Manchester LGBTQ+ entertainment experience.
Try the pool tables and fruit machines during the day for a relaxed pub atmosphere away from the city bustle.
Book a stay in the hotel for convenient access to Canal Street and a comfortable, no-frills lodging option.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

BarLounge - Chester

The Botanist Alderley Edge

Lost & Found Knutsford

The Cheshire Cat

Prohibition

Explore The New Union on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near The New Union, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

Take the Metrolink tram to St Peter's Square or Piccadilly Gardens, both within a 5 to 7-minute walk. Trams run frequently throughout the day, with tickets costing around £3 for a single journey.
Taxi or Ride-Hailing

Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber can reach The New Union from Manchester city center in approximately 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically between £5 and £10.
Walking

If you are staying nearby, walking is an excellent option. From Piccadilly Gardens, expect a 6 to 10-minute walk along well-lit, flat urban streets suitable for all mobility levels.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Drink Options
Food Options
Seating Areas
Information Boards

Discover more about The New Union

A Heritage Venue in Manchester's Gay Village

The New Union stands as one of Manchester’s oldest and most iconic LGBTQ+ venues, established around 1860. Situated on Princess Street, just off the bustling Canal Street, it has been a gay and lesbian friendly space since the 1950s, reflecting a rich history of inclusivity and community. The building’s architecture retains a classic pub style that complements its heritage, creating an inviting atmosphere that honors its longstanding place in Manchester's social fabric.

Dual Ambience: Pub by Day, Party Hub by Night

During daytime hours, The New Union offers a relaxed pub environment featuring traditional elements such as an American-style pool table, fruit machines, and a digital jukebox. This setting is perfect for casual drinks or after-work gatherings. As evening falls, the venue transforms into a vibrant nightclub with a large dance floor, dancing poles, and an energetic party crowd. Regular DJs spin a mix of commercial pop, indie, and party mashups, while themed nights, karaoke, and drag cabaret shows keep the entertainment dynamic and engaging.

Entertainment and Events

The New Union is renowned for its lively entertainment schedule. Drag queen DJs and cabaret performances are featured six nights a week, with Sunday nights hosting some of the city’s best drag cabaret shows. Karaoke nights and themed parties add to the festive atmosphere, making it a hotspot for both locals and visitors seeking fun and inclusive nightlife. The venue’s drink deals and affordable prices further enhance its appeal.

Accommodation with a No-Frills Comfort

Beyond the bar and club, The New Union operates as a hotel offering clean, modern rooms with en-suite bathrooms, free WiFi, and memory foam mattresses. The accommodation is straightforward but comfortable, catering especially to those visiting the Gay Village for a weekend or longer stay. The hotel is adults-only (16+), emphasizing a mature and respectful environment. Guests appreciate the attentive service and convenient location near Manchester’s key attractions.

Location and Accessibility

Positioned close to Piccadilly Gardens and Deansgate, The New Union benefits from excellent urban access. It lies within walking distance of Manchester’s central transport hubs and is embedded in the lively Canal Street area, known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene. The venue’s accessibility and central location make it an easy and popular choice for nightlife and accommodation.

Community Spirit and Inclusive Atmosphere

The New Union has maintained a strong connection to Manchester’s LGBTQ+ community for decades. It fosters a welcoming and safe space where patrons can enjoy themselves freely. The staff and management are known for their friendly and accommodating approach, ensuring that the venue remains a cornerstone of the Gay Village’s social life. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet pint or dancing until dawn, The New Union embodies the spirit of celebration and inclusivity.