Arcane Cocktail Bar, Manchester
Discover Arcane, a cozy Victorian-inspired cocktail bar in Manchester’s city centre, blending inventive drinks with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Arcane is a stylish cocktail bar nestled in Manchester’s city centre, known for its relaxed, intimate atmosphere and expertly crafted drinks. Set in a cozy basement with Victorian-inspired décor, it offers a unique blend of classic charm and innovative cocktails, served with attentive table service. The bar’s inviting ambiance, quality ingredients, and friendly staff make it a standout destination for cocktail enthusiasts and night owls alike.
A brief summary to Arcane
- 2 S King St, Manchester, M3 2BQ, GB
- +441618346452
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-2 am
- Tuesday 5 pm-2 am
- Wednesday 5 pm-2 am
- Thursday 5 pm-2 am
- Friday 4 pm-4 am
- Saturday 12 pm-4 am
- Sunday 5 pm-2 am
Local tips
- Try the signature cocktails like the Lloyd and Son Revitalising Love Tonic or the adventurous Sage and Onion daiquiri for a unique taste experience.
- Visit on weekends for extended opening hours and a lively atmosphere, but weekdays offer a more relaxed vibe perfect for intimate gatherings.
- Take advantage of the table service via QR code for a seamless ordering experience and personalized drink recommendations.
- Consider booking in advance during peak times to secure a cozy booth or space for special occasions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Arcane location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Arcane
A Hidden Gem Beneath Manchester’s Streets
Arcane is tucked away at 2 South King Street, just off the bustling Deansgate area, occupying a basement space that once served as an old bookmaker’s shop. This subterranean location lends the bar a secretive, exclusive feel, inviting guests to descend into a world of refined mixology and vintage charm. The interior design nods to the Victorian era with exposed brick walls, curved leather booths, and intricate wooden bookshelves, creating a warm and intimate setting that contrasts with the city’s modern energy.Crafting Cocktails with a Story
The bar prides itself on a cocktail menu that goes beyond the ordinary. Each drink is thoughtfully created, often inspired by personal stories or unique flavor combinations. Signature cocktails include inventive blends like the Lloyd and Son Revitalising Love Tonic, which mixes green chartreuse, cognac, and fresh herbs, and the Dramble, a delicate fusion of Japanese sake and citrus bitters. For the adventurous, options like the Sage and Onion daiquiri or the Ryes and Shine with house-made bacon liqueur offer a daring twist. The bartenders’ dedication to quality and creativity ensures a memorable tasting experience.Atmosphere and Service That Feel Like Home
Despite its stylish aesthetic, Arcane maintains a relaxed and welcoming vibe. The bar’s ethos is to feel both familiar and fresh, a place where guests can unwind comfortably. Table service is standard, with staff taking orders via QR codes and offering personalized recommendations. The bartenders are known for their friendly banter and attentiveness, enhancing the overall experience. Background music with retro tones complements the setting, encouraging guests to relax and enjoy their drinks without the overwhelming noise of typical nightlife venues.Versatile Venue for Every Occasion
Arcane suits a variety of outings, from after-work drinks to special celebrations. Its cozy booths and atmospheric lighting create a romantic environment for couples, while the lively yet intimate space also welcomes groups of friends. The venue offers private hire options for events, with flexible capacities and bespoke packages. Whether stopping by for a quick cocktail or settling in for a night of exploration through the menu, visitors find Arcane a destination that balances sophistication with comfort.Location and Accessibility
Situated in Manchester’s city centre, Arcane is easily reachable by public transport and is surrounded by other nightlife and dining options. Its central location makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the city’s vibrant evening scene. The bar’s opening hours extend late into the night, especially on weekends, catering to night owls and cocktail aficionados looking for quality drinks in a unique setting.A Lasting Impression of Quality and Character
Arcane stands out not just for its cocktails but for the character it exudes. The blend of Victorian décor, creative drink crafting, and personable service creates an experience that lingers long after the last sip. It is a bar that invites repeat visits, promising new discoveries with each return. For those seeking a sophisticated yet unpretentious night out in Manchester, Arcane delivers with style and substance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dalton Entry
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Mulberry Passage
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John Bright Statue
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Albert Memorial
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Manchester City Council
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Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Free Trade Hall
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The Undamaged Red Post Box
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St. Peter's Square
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Peterloo Massacre Monument
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Connaught Building
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Arch of Chinatown
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Canada House, Manchester
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Historic England
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Robert Owen Statue
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Breakout Manchester Church Street
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Unmissable attractions to see
John Rylands Research Institute and Library
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St Mary's RC Church
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Saint Ann's Church
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Abraham Lincoln Statue
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Parsonage Gardens
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A peaceful garden oasis in central Manchester, rich with history and quiet reflection amid the city’s vibrant heart.
St Anns Square
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Historic heart of Manchester blending 18th-century charm, architectural heritage, and vibrant retail life in an elegant urban square.
2 Albert Square
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Historic Albert Square in Manchester showcases Victorian Gothic grandeur with its iconic Town Hall and Prince Albert Memorial.
Albert Square
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Manchester’s grand civic heart, framed by Gothic spires and alive with markets, monuments, and city life.
Barton Arcade
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Step into Barton Arcade, a Victorian marvel of glass and iron, where historic elegance meets boutique shopping in the heart of Manchester.
Once Upon a Smile
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A dedicated Greater Manchester charity base providing child-centred bereavement support, counselling and creative memory-making programmes in a compassionate, private setting.
Manchester Albert Square
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Discover Manchester Albert Square, a stunning Victorian civic space where history, architecture, and vibrant culture converge in the city’s heart.
Albert Hall, Manchester
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Opera House Manchester
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DNA VR Manchester
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Step into Manchester’s premier VR arcade where immersive games, escape rooms, and free-roam adventures bring virtual worlds to life.
People's History Museum
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Britain's national museum of democracy, celebrating radical stories of people fighting for a fairer world.
Essential places to dine
San Carlo - Manchester
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Australasia
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MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE
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Masons
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Miller & Carter Manchester
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10 Tib Lane
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Annies
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Armenian Taverna & Restaurant
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Kala
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Climat
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Sam's Chop House
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Manchester Souvenirs Gifts & Presents Geek Elf Elux Bars Luggage storage locker
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Authentic Manchester souvenirs and gifts with local charm, plus convenient luggage storage in the heart of Deansgate.
Pulse
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Søstrene Grene
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Rams Gift World
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Menkind
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TVSeriesJackets
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T.La Art & Craft Gallery
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Catch my Thrift
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Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
Amazonas Gifts
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Stare Society
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Hoot
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Science and Industry Museum Shop
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The Manchester Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Arcane
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Discover Arcane, a cozy Victorian-inspired cocktail bar in Manchester’s city centre, blending inventive drinks with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
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The Old Wellington
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Three Little Words
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Cloud 23
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
