The Washhouse: Manchester’s Secret Speakeasy Cocktail Bar
Step through a washing machine door into Manchester’s secret speakeasy, where inventive cocktails and quirky charm create an unforgettable night out.
The Washhouse is a unique speakeasy-style cocktail bar in Manchester disguised as a vintage laundromat. Known for its inventive drinks, theatrical presentations, and secretive atmosphere, it offers an immersive experience blending quirky charm with expert mixology in a cozy, dimly lit setting.
A brief summary to The Washhouse
- 19 Shudehill, Manchester, M4 2AF, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 4 pm-1 am
- Tuesday 4 pm-1 am
- Wednesday 4 pm-1 am
- Thursday 4 pm-1 am
- Friday 12 pm-2 am
- Saturday 12 pm-2 am
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Book your visit in advance by contacting the bar to secure a slot, as entry is by appointment only.
- Ask the knowledgeable staff for cocktail recommendations and explanations to enhance your tasting experience.
- Try the signature cocktails with theatrical presentations, such as those involving vape pens or edible elements.
- For a more intimate experience, request seating downstairs where the atmosphere is cozier and less crowded.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Washhouse location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about The Washhouse
A Hidden Entrance to a Prohibition-Inspired World
The Washhouse invites you to step through an ordinary laundromat facade into a clandestine speakeasy that channels the spirit of the Prohibition era. The entrance cleverly mimics a washing machine door, leading you into a dimly lit, intimate space where the unexpected awaits. This Narnia-esque transition sets the tone for the entire experience, blending secrecy and intrigue with playful theatricality.Atmosphere and Interior Character
Inside, the bar exudes a refined yet cozy ambiance with dark leather seating, exposed brick walls, and low-hanging lamps casting warm glows over candlelit tables. The downstairs area offers a more intimate and private vibe, perfect for relaxed conversations, while the upstairs is more open and lively, featuring interactive elements like a DJ booth hidden in the restroom and even a slide. The venue’s design balances vintage charm with modern speakeasy flair, creating a unique setting that feels both exclusive and inviting.Inventive Cocktails as Artful Experiences
The Washhouse is renowned for its highly creative cocktail menu, where drinks are crafted with meticulous attention to detail and theatrical presentation. Bartenders work like artists, blending unusual ingredients and surprising elements—such as vape pens delivering alcohol mist or edible sand served with cocktails—to elevate the drinking experience into a multisensory event. Each cocktail is thoughtfully named and explained by knowledgeable staff, who guide guests through the menu and its hidden surprises, ensuring a personalized and immersive tasting journey.Service and Social Vibe
Service at The Washhouse is attentive and expert, reminiscent of Michelin-star dining standards, with staff eager to share the story behind each drink. The bar’s atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, making it ideal for both casual nights out and special celebrations. The presence of a DJ and unusual features like music in the toilets add a quirky, fun edge that keeps the energy vibrant and entertaining.Local Significance and Cultural Impact
Since its opening, The Washhouse has become a standout in Manchester’s nightlife scene for its originality and immersive concept. It reflects a broader trend of experiential bars that combine storytelling, design, and craft cocktails to create memorable social spaces. Its secretive nature and inventive approach make it a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts and those seeking a unique night out in the city.Memorable Moments and Visitor Experiences
Guests often recount their surprise and delight at the bar’s inventive drinks and hidden features. Signature cocktails like “Cigarettes and Alcohol,” which includes a vape pen, offer playful, photo-worthy moments. The venue’s blend of secrecy, creativity, and warmth ensures that every visit feels like discovering a well-kept secret, making it a lasting highlight of Manchester’s vibrant nightlife.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Owen Statue
0.2 km
Honoring Robert Owen, pioneer of social reform and the co-operative movement, through a striking statue in Manchester’s city heart.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
0.3 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.5 km
A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
Dalton Entry
0.7 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
John Bright Statue
0.7 km
A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Mulberry Passage
0.7 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
Albert Memorial
0.7 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Connaught Building
0.7 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
Manchester City Council
0.7 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Arch of Chinatown
0.7 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
St. Peter's Square
0.8 km
Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Murrays' Mill
0.8 km
Explore Murrays' Mills, the world’s oldest urban steam-powered cotton mill, where industrial heritage meets modern living in Manchester’s historic Ancoats district.
The Beacon Of Hope
0.9 km
A powerful and serene memorial in Manchester honoring resilience, hope, and the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Free Trade Hall
0.9 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Landmark, St Peter's Square
0.9 km
Discover the architectural marvel of Landmark at St Peter's Square, where modern business meets Manchester’s rich historical tapestry.
Unmissable attractions to see
NQ Mural
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant NQ Mural, a colorful centerpiece of Manchester's Northern Quarter renowned for its dynamic street art and creative energy.
Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre
0.2 km
Manchester’s largest indoor shopping centre, with over 200 stores, restaurants, and leisure options in the heart of the city.
National Football Museum
0.2 km
Explore the world’s greatest football collection and interactive exhibits in Manchester’s iconic National Football Museum.
Corn Exchange Manchester
0.2 km
A historic Manchester landmark blending global dining, unique entertainment, and vibrant social experiences in a stunning Edwardian setting.
Exchange Sq
0.2 km
Manchester’s bustling Exchange Square blends historic resilience with vibrant shopping, seasonal markets, and cultural buzz in the city centre.
The Makers Market
0.3 km
Discover Manchester’s creative pulse at The Makers Market, where artisan crafts, street food, and live music unite in the vibrant Northern Quarter.
Cathedral Gardens
0.3 km
A vibrant green oasis in Manchester’s medieval quarter, blending history, culture, and nature in the city centre.
Manchester Craft and Design Centre
0.3 km
Discover handmade crafts, meet local artists, and enjoy artisan café culture in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter.
Market St
0.3 km
Manchester’s bustling pedestrian retail street linking major stations with iconic shops and vibrant city life.
Chetham's Library
0.3 km
Explore England’s oldest public library, a medieval architectural gem and historic hub of revolutionary ideas in Manchester’s heart.
Breakout Manchester Church Street
0.3 km
Experience thrilling, immersive escape rooms on Manchester’s Church Street with diverse themes and challenging puzzles for all skill levels.
The Mitre Hotel
0.3 km
Historic Victorian charm meets central Manchester convenience at The Mitre Hotel in Shambles Square.
Manchester Cathedral
0.3 km
Explore the captivating beauty and rich history of Manchester Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture situated in the heart of Manchester.
Afflecks
0.3 km
Explore Manchester’s legendary alternative indoor market, home to over 60 independent traders and a vibrant hub of creativity and culture.
Shops
0.3 km
Discover Oldham Street, Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter hotspot for vintage fashion, indie shops, live music, and authentic urban culture.
Essential places to dine
Trof Northern Quarter
0.1 km
A multi-level Northern Quarter gem serving hearty British comfort food, craft beers, and rare bourbons in a lively, rustic setting.
Sicilian NQ - Restaurant and Bar
0.1 km
Authentic Sicilian cuisine and vibrant bar life in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, famed for arancini and inclusive vegan options.
Liquor and Burn
0.2 km
Experience bold Mexican street food and vibrant cocktails in Manchester’s artistic Northern Quarter at Luck Lust Liquor & Burn.
63 Degrees
0.2 km
Experience meticulous French cuisine and elegant dining in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter at 63 Degrees.
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Manchester
0.2 km
Contemporary Italian dining with cocktails in Manchester's vibrant Corn Exchange.
TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
A beloved Northern Quarter gem serving seasonal British cuisine with award-winning roasts and warm, attentive service in a relaxed brasserie setting.
PUPA Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
Authentic Mediterranean charcoal grill and vibrant atmosphere in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, perfect for steak lovers and lively dining.
Cane & Grain
0.2 km
Discover Cane & Grain: where traditional American cuisine meets Manchester's vibrant nightlife scene in an unforgettable dining experience.
Yard & Coop Manchester
0.2 km
Savor the best buttermilk fried chicken in Manchester’s Northern Quarter with bold flavors, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere.
Almost Famous NQ
0.3 km
Bold, indulgent burgers and vibrant vibes in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, a must-visit for burger lovers and casual diners alike.
Cosy Club
0.3 km
Eclectic British dining and vibrant bar in Manchester’s historic Corn Exchange with stylish 1970s flair and a welcoming atmosphere.
Evuna NQ
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant hospitality in Manchester’s Northern Quarter at Evuna NQ, a lively hub for food, wine, and culture.
Pieminister Manchester
0.3 km
Savor award-winning British pies in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, where tradition meets modern comfort food in a lively, welcoming setting.
Turtle Bay Manchester Northern Quarter
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively island vibes in Manchester’s Northern Quarter at Turtle Bay.
Browns Manchester
0.4 km
Victorian elegance meets contemporary British cuisine in Manchester's most distinguished brasserie.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hoot
0.0 km
Discover magical gifts and Harry Potter treasures at Hoot, a charming boutique nestled in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant shopping heart.
Amazonas Gifts
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Amazonas Gifts, nestled in the heart of Manchester Markets Piccadilly.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.2 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
Menkind
0.2 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, Manchester Arndale’s vibrant destination for fun and innovative presents.
Deadstock General Store
0.2 km
Discover useful beauty at Deadstock General Store, where Liam Jackson curates high-end Japanese designs, artisan gifts, and tailoring in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
&made
0.2 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artworks at &made, a creative studio in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter craft hub.
Jessica6 Designs
0.3 km
Discover unique luxury gifts and local artistry at Jessica6 Designs within Manchester’s vibrant Craft & Design Centre.
Studio One - Jewellery, Craft, Gifts and Homewares
0.3 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery and crafts at Studio One, a vibrant artisan studio within Manchester’s historic Craft and Design Centre.
Rams Gift World
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Laissez Faire UK Fairtrade & Eco Clothes & Gifts
0.3 km
Discover fairtrade and eco-friendly fashion and gifts in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Church Street district.
Red and Blue Umbrella
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and friendly service at Manchester’s Red and Blue Umbrella vintage clothing shop on Church Street.
Cow Vintage Manchester
0.3 km
Discover trend-led vintage fashion and sustainable style in Manchester’s creative Northern Quarter at Cow Vintage.
The Manchester Shop
0.3 km
Discover Manchester's soul in bee motifs, music tees, and proud souvenirs at this Northern Quarter gem within Afflecks Arcade.
Pop Boutique
0.4 km
Tucked into Oldham Street, Pop Boutique is Manchester’s well-curated vintage emporium for mid-century to 1990s fashion finds and eclectic accessories.
Thunder Egg
0.4 km
Dive into a rainbow of quirky fashion and gifts at Thunder Egg, Manchester's colorful boutique for unique vintage-inspired styles and playful outfits.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Washhouse
0.0 km
Step through a washing machine door into Manchester’s secret speakeasy, where inventive cocktails and quirky charm create an unforgettable night out.
Wolf at the Door
0.2 km
A vibrant Northern Quarter bar serving innovative tapas-style bao buns, craft cocktails, and a lively urban atmosphere.
Science And Industry
0.2 km
Sophisticated cocktails and a stylish vibe await you at Science and Industry, the first-floor bar of Cane & Grain in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
The Old Wellington
0.3 km
Step into The Old Wellington, a historic Manchester pub blending centuries-old charm with hearty ales and classic British fare in the city centre.
The Daisy
0.3 km
Parisian subterranean cocktail haven in Manchester's Northern Quarter: eclectic vibes, masterful drinks, and weekend DJ magic beneath Evelyn's.
NQ64 Northern Quarter
0.3 km
Retro arcade bar blasting 80s-90s nostalgia with neon cocktails, token games, and basement buzz in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
Night & Day Cafe
0.4 km
Manchester's intimate live music heartbeat in the Northern Quarter—where legends launched and nights ignite with raw indie energy.
Behind Closed Doors
0.4 km
Descend into debauched delight at this Northern Quarter speakeasy, where retro telephones summon saucy cocktails amid erotic art, neon booths, and funky DJ beats until 4am.
Wilson's Social
0.4 km
All-day Northern Quarter hub: brunch by day, cocktails and beats by night in a multi-level party palace with pool, courtyard, and private den.
Mean Eyed Cat Bar Manchester
0.4 km
Dive into Manchester’s Northern Quarter for rebellious rock ’n’ roll vibes, free pizza, and legendary dice games at Mean Eyed Cat Bar.
Bar Fringe
0.4 km
A cozy Northern Quarter bar with quirky charm, top Belgian beers, live music, and a welcoming vibe for relaxed socializing.
Dusk Til Pawn
0.4 km
Secretive pawn-shop façade, intimate speakeasy interior and a menu of inventive cocktails in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
Flok
0.4 km
Lively pub with excellent drinks and friendly vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife.
7Sins, Northern Quarter
0.4 km
A vibrant basement bar and gaming hub in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, mixing cocktails, pool, arcade games, and dance club energy.
The Crown & Kettle
0.5 km
Grade II-listed Ancoats gem with a world-class tin ceiling, craft beer mastery, and cozy Victorian vibes—Manchester's perfect pub hybrid.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cargo
0.1 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Funkademia
0.4 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
Mint Lounge
0.4 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Bijou Club
0.4 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Twenty Twenty Two
0.5 km
Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
Aatma
0.5 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Club Liv Manchester
0.7 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
0.8 km
Dive into Manchester's most inclusive queer rave: grungy beats, diverse dancers, and unapologetic joy at YDSA Events in Ancoats.
Satans Hollow
0.8 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Venue Nightclub
0.8 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Club Tropicana
0.9 km
Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
0.9 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
42's
0.9 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
History Nightclub
1.0 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Royal Vida Night Club
1.1 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
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
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nightlife
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- LGBT Friendly