The New Union Hotel: Manchester’s Historic Gay Village Hub
Historic gay-friendly pub, nightclub, and hotel in Manchester’s vibrant Gay Village offering lively entertainment and comfortable stays.
Situated at 111 Princess Street, The New Union Hotel is a vibrant gay-friendly pub, nightclub, and hotel in Manchester’s famous Gay Village near Canal Street. Established in the 1860s, it offers a lively mix of traditional pub atmosphere by day and energetic nightlife with DJs, drag cabaret, karaoke, and themed parties by night, alongside clean, no-frills accommodation with modern amenities.
A brief summary to The New Union
- 111 Princess St, Manchester, M1 6JB, GB
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- Duration: 1 to 5 hours
- Budget
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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
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 to experience late-night DJs, drag cabaret, and themed parties until early morning.
- Enjoy a relaxed afternoon with pool and fruit machines in the traditional pub area before the nightlife kicks in.
- Book a stay in the hotel’s clean, no-frills rooms to fully immerse yourself in the Gay Village atmosphere.
- Try a variety of drinks from lagers to boutique gins, complemented by fast bar service and affordable prices.
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Getting There
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Tram
Take the Manchester Metrolink tram to St Peter's Square, approximately a 5-minute walk from The New Union. Trams run frequently throughout the day with tickets costing around £3 for a single journey.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve Princess Street with stops near Canal Street. Travel times vary between 10 to 20 minutes from central Manchester locations, with single fares typically £2 to £3. Buses run regularly but check schedules for evening service.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber provide direct access to The New Union from anywhere in Manchester city centre, usually within 10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £5 to £10.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Restrooms
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Information Boards
Discover more about The New Union
An Enduring Legacy in Manchester’s Gay Village
The New Union Hotel, located at 111 Princess Street, stands as one of Manchester’s oldest and most iconic LGBTQ+ venues. Established around 1860, it was among the first openly gay venues in the city and has since maintained its reputation as a welcoming and inclusive space. Nestled near Canal Street—the heart of Manchester’s Gay Village—the building’s heritage architecture reflects its long-standing presence in the community, blending historic charm with lively modernity.Daytime Pub Ambience and Entertainment
During the day, The New Union offers a relaxed pub atmosphere perfect for after-work drinks or casual socializing. The main bar features traditional pub elements such as an American-style pool table, fruit machines, and a digital jukebox, catering to those seeking a laid-back environment. The venue’s drink selection is broad, ranging from lagers and flavored ciders to boutique gins and mainstream spirits, ensuring a tipple for every taste.Nightlife and Vibrant Shows
As evening falls, The New Union transforms into a dynamic nightclub and showbar. From Tuesday through Sunday nights, the venue hosts an array of entertainment including drag queen DJs, cabaret shows, karaoke, and themed party nights. The large dance floor, complete with dancing poles, attracts a lively crowd eager to dance into the early hours, especially on Fridays and Saturdays when the bar stays open until 6am. This blend of performances and music genres—from pop and indie to party mashups—creates an energetic and inclusive nightlife experience.Comfortable, No-Frills Accommodation
In addition to its bar and nightclub, The New Union Hotel offers clean, modern, no-frills rooms with en-suite bathrooms, memory foam mattresses, and complimentary tea and coffee. Free in-room WiFi and wall-mounted flat-screen TVs enhance guest comfort. The hotel is adults-only (16+), emphasizing a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ travelers and those visiting Manchester’s vibrant Gay Village.Community and Cultural Significance
The New Union has played a pivotal role in Manchester’s LGBTQ+ scene for decades, fostering a sense of community and celebration. Its location near key landmarks like Piccadilly Gardens and Manchester Palace Theatre makes it a cultural hub. The venue’s commitment to inclusivity and fun is evident in its diverse programming and friendly atmosphere, making it a cornerstone of the city’s nightlife and heritage.Practical Details and Visitor Experience
The New Union is open daily, with varied hours that extend late into the night on weekends. It offers affordable drinks and entertainment, with a casual dress code and no queues typical. While the venue is lively and bustling, it also provides quieter spaces during the day. Visitors can enjoy street-side tables and a welcoming staff that contribute to a memorable experience in Manchester’s Gay Village.Explore the best of what The New Union has to offer
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