One of the largest and most authentic country-style family pubs in Manchester, The Wharf is already a go-to spot for locals and regular punters all week long with its canalside terrace and fabulous Sunday roasts being well-known highlights, but it also shines when it comes to private hire and group bookings.
Boasting one of the biggest and best beer gardens in the city centre, The Wharf is split over two massive floors, with several cosy nooks and dedicated rooms to perfectly match the atmosphere you’re looking for. The pub has become a popular site for birthday bashes, festive gatherings and more.
Sitting pretty just along the historic Bridgewater Canal, The Wharf has been a Castlefield institution for more than a decade, so it’s no surprise that you’ll often find the place hosting various social clubs, private parties and other groups.
They deliver a jam-packed seasonal calendar with events like the annual Summer Bash, where July sees them throwing a festival on the flags with an outdoor BBQ and live entertainment all weekend.
The fun doesn’t stop there though, with regularly scheduled wine and whisky tastings, pub quizzes, supplier spotlights and acoustic music, there’s lots to stick your teeth into.
Credit: The Manc Group
And that genuinely is just the tip of the iceberg.
From hosting Table Top Manchester, a group united by their love of board games, to the droves ofManchester Road Runners who reward themselves with a refreshing pint every Wednesday, many a local organisation find themselves congregating in this watering hole.
The semi-private upstairs floor is truly one of the pub’s biggest draws. With a capacity of up to 80 people is no stranger to the odd corporate takeover or work’s do.
With a little balcony area overlooking the terrace, no less, there are all manner of spaces for guests to make the most of the waterside pub depending on the nature of their visit.
Come the winter months, there’s no better place to cosy up than the ‘Library’ room: a charming, semi-private space that boasts an extensive book collection and a roaring fireplace. Whether you’re looking for a sit-down meal or simple drinks and buffet-style gatherings, the library really is one of the most comfortable corners in Manchester.
Venturing further into the depths of The Wharf you’ll find a private space which can be transformed into a boardroom, dining area and plenty more, with access to a television and a capacity of 40 seated diners or up to 50 guests for more casual arrangements, the Old Office is perfect for any occasion.
Whether you simply need a sizeable room to host a big group of friends, a family birthday or anniversary, Christmas party or work event, The Wharf isn’t just one of the most welcoming pubs you’ll find so close to the city centre but it’s also one of the most versatile.
Little extras like free parking, a PA system, a full projector and screen set-up with all your stationery included when you book, not to mention discounts on their wine list for large groups, the aim is to make everything as easy as possible for you and your bookings should you choose them as your venue.
So, if you’re looking to sort somewhere for your next big gathering, you won’t go far wrong taking a gander at thisCastlefield gem.
Rochdale will be hosting its FIRST EVER comedy festival later this year
Thomas Melia
There’s a comedy festival making its way to Rochdale for the first time ever, and it’s taking place over 10 days this autumn.
Rochdale is preparing for barrels of laughter, as the borough is about to host a comedy festival as part of its events programme for being crowned Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture for 2025-26.
The line-up features some well-renowned names in thecomedy world, many of whom have received awards and recognition along the way.
You can expect appearances from Lou Conran, who features as a regular support act for Sarah Millican, Tez Ilyas, from ‘Man Like Mobeen’, and TV comedy legend Mick Miller. There’s even some Britain’s Got Talent alumni in the form of last year’s finalist Alex Mitchell and 2017 semi-finalist Jonny Awsum.
Tez Ilyaz, Lou Conran and Brennan Reece are just some of the acts listed for Rochdale Comedy Festival / Credit: Supplied
Edinburgh Festival favourite Patrick Monahan will be performing along with English comedian of the year Rob Mullholland, Aaron Wood – named by Rolling Stone UK as one of the 12 rising comedy stars to see at the Edinburgh Fringe this summer, and comedy musician Alex Camp.
The lineup also includes Robin Ince, co-host and creator of Sony Gold Award winning BBC Radio 4 series The Infinite Monkey Cage, and a whole host of other stand-up acts who are all gearing up ready to make Rochdale giggle.
“Us northerners are famous for our sense of humour and there’s a big appetite for comedy,” commented Councillor Sue Smith, who is the cabinet member for communities and co-operation at Rochdale Borough Council.
Rochdale Comedy Festival has an array of comedians taking part including Jonny Awsum and Daisy Earl / Credit: Supplied
“I’m happy to see Rochdale Comedy Festival launching during our year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture.
“It will bring together communities and give new comedians a chance to shine.”
So whether you’re in need of a cheer up, or you’re a comedy aficionado, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to crack a smile at Rochdale Comedy Festival, as it’s happening across 10 days from 26 September to 5 October in various venues across the Greater Manchester borough.
Featured Images – Supplied (via Publicity Pictures)
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Northern Quarter favourite The Pen and Pencil announces massive 10th birthday party and huge offers
Daisy Jackson
The Pen and Pencil, an absolute staple for brunches and drinks in the Northern Quarter, is celebrating a major milestone this month with a huge party and some unbeatable deals.
The bar and restaurant will be marking 10 years on Tariff Street in September – and it’s only right that we all pile in to celebrate with them.
This spot is one of the city’s original bottomless brunch venues and is similarly famed for its happy hour offerings, and opened in 2015 to bring a taste of Manhattan to Manchester.
Pen and Pencil took its name from the infamous New York City bar that was seen in Mad Men.
And now as it turns 10 years old, it’ll be throwing one big party on Saturday 27 September, featuring 10 hours of DJs, free pints of Red Stripe at 10pm, and a special bottomless brunch offering.
Those DJing on the day will include Drag Race UK’s Banksie, as well as Les Croasdaile, Mark Hogg, Danny Ward and A Deeper Groove.
Pen & Pencil has amazing deals for its 10th birthdayPen & Pencil is a Northern Quarter OG
The Pen and Pencil 10th birthday party will kick off from 2pm and run until late – but if you can’t make that one, there’ll be celebrations all week (and, indeed, month) long.
On Tuesday 23 September, you’ll be able to play for double prize money in The Pen and Pencil quiz, as well as enjoying happy hour drinks all night.
Then on Friday 26 September, it’ll be an all-night happy hour, with free tequila shots at 10pm and music from DJs Nev Johnson and Gareth James from 7pm.
All September long, there’ll be 50% off food every Monday, two-for-£10 cocktails every Wednesday, £10 burgers every Thursday, happy hour all night on Fridays, 10 dishes for £10 and two bloody Marys for £10 on Sundays, plus DJs on Fridays and Saturdays.
There’s a new colourful art installation outside the venue inspired by the bar’s New York roots.
Owner Kevin Connor said: “We’re really excited to be celebrating being part of the Manchester community for ten years!
“New York’s Pen and Pencil was a classic steak and cocktail joint, and we’re proud to have created our very own iconic Northern Quarter hangout. We hope everyone will join us in celebrating ten years on Tariff Street.”
Walk-ins are welcome for The Pen and Pencil 10th birthday party on Saturday 27 September, but booking is encouraged – book your spot HERE.
Danny Jones -
17th August 2024 
