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Everything You Need to Know about Deansgate Locks in Manchester
One of the things I love most about Manchester is that there’s always a way to have a good time. And while we weren’t even planning to go out that night. We just stumbled across Deansgate Locks, wandering from Oxford Road, drawn in by the glowing arches and music from the canal-side club.
This wasn’t the Deansgate Locks from years ago, back when the arches were mostly closed off and the canal was quiet. Now, it’s alive with neon lights, pulsing music, and the Manchester spirit. I was all for it! Goodbye freight trains, hello tequila shots! I can assure you that the ladies and I had a blast.
If you’re new to the city or just want to have a night to remember (or not…), you’ll love how they’ve reinvented Deansgate Locks. More than just a party spot, it’s a piece of Manchester history, all in one. So, here’s everything you need to know about Deansgate Locks.
Where is Deansgate Locks?
Deansgate Locks sits on the southern end of Deansgate, along Whitworth Street West in Castlefield, just a short walk from Manchester city centre.
What is the main street in Deansgate Locks?
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The perfect place to kick off your exploration of Deansgate Locks is Whitworth Street West, where all the action happens. Running along the Rochdale Canal, this entire stretch is home to bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and stunning views of the historic railway viaduct and canal.
How to Get to Deansgate Locks
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Closest train stop: The closest station to Deansgate Locks is none other than Deansgate Station. It’s literally right across the road from the arches, so you’ll be at the Locks in under a minute.
Another option is Manchester Oxford Road. From there, it’s a 5-7 minute walk down Whitworth Street West. Just head towards the Deansgate-Castlefield tram stop, stroll down the ramp, and boom, you’re there.
Closest tram stop: Coming from Altrincham, East Didsbury, Eccles, MediaCityUK, or any of the Airport lines? The tram will be your best friend. Just ride to Deansgate-Castlefield Station, walk down the ramp, and the Locks will be right below.
Closest bus stop: You can take buses 33, 255, and 263, among others, to Deansgate Station (Stop D or E) on Whitworth Street. While a tad farther, you can also get off at Oxford Road, which is just a quick 5-10 minute walk to the Locks. For this route, you can take buses 42, 143, and 197, among other local routes.
On foot: If you’re coming from the City Centre, Deansgate Locks is just 10 minutes away from St. Peter’s Square and 15 minutes from Manchester Piccadilly Station. Just follow the signs leading to Deansgate or walk along Whitworth Street West until you spot the arches.
Driving: Before we get into the driving directions, a quick heads up: I wouldn’t bring a car to Deansgate Locks if you can avoid it. There are limited parking options, especially on weekends, and the area gets busy fast. If public transportation isn’t an option, try ride-shares such as Uber and Bolt.
If you must drive, try to get dropped off at Great Bridgewater Street or Whitworth Street West, both of which are just a short walk to the Locks.
What to Do and See at Deansgate Locks
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By day, Deansgate Locks is the picture-perfect symbol of Manchester’s industrial legacy, ideal for drinking cocktails by the canal at sunset. Come nightfall, the arches come alive with contagious late-night energy. Here’s what you can do while you’re there.
ARK Manchester
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Address: 3A, 5 Whitworth St W, Manchester M1 5LH
Operating Hours: Thursday to Sunday: 9 pm – 3 am
Phone: +44 161 819 5858
Best For: Canal-side drinking and high-energy late-night clubbing featuring house DJs
ARK Manchester offers a flexible nightlife experience. You could be sipping cocktails by the canal-side lounges or raving inside its industrial chic nightclub. Did I mention that there are three dance rooms? Yup, so all you have to do is take your pick.
Of course, no club experience is complete without a glass. My favourite is the tattoo martini, a quirky martini-style cocktail with edible paper tattoos, which make a fun little souvenir.
In the summer, their Peace Please! is a fun pick, mixing Casamigos Blanco tequila with a refreshing Red Bull White Peach.
| Pro Tip: When coming with friends, don’t skip the deals! Think 4-for-£10 shots, discounted entries, and drink bundles that’ll keep you going all night without hurting your wallet. |
Lock 91
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Address: 9 Century St, Manchester M3 4QL
Operating Hours:
- Thursday: 4 pm – 12 am
- Friday to Saturday: 4 pm – 2 am
Phone: +44 161 819 5444
Best For: Intimate and relaxed drinks
Lock 91 is easily one of the most stylish bars I’ve ever stepped into. Set in a 19th-century lock-keeper’s cottage, it pairs character with comfort, with Chesterfield sofas, exposed brick, and a canal-side terrace that adds to the charm. In warmer weather, it’s perfect for having a pint under the stars.
The real stars of the show are the expertly crafted cocktails, updated biannually to make the best of what’s in season. One of Lock 91’s most talked-about signature cocktails is the Smokey Scarlett, a smoky twist on the classic Old Fashioned.
Then there’s Del Boy, a cheeky nod to the well-loved Piña Colada. And if a margarita and beer had a lovechild? That would be Trannie: punchy and slightly sweet, finished with a salty rim to put it all together.
| Pro Tip: Lock 91 has many well-kept secrets, but it can’t hurt to ask their staff about off-menu creations. Their bartenders love a challenge, so if you’re feeling adventurous, ask them to whip up a bespoke cocktail for you. |
Dukes 92
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Address: 18 – 25 Castle St, Manchester M3 4LZ
Operating Hours:
Phone: +44 161 839 8642
Best For: Weekend brunches and outdoor terrace drinks
Did you know that a “Motherboard” isn’t just a computer part? Me neither. At Dukes 92, it’s their legendary cheese and pate board, enough to feed 6 to 10 people. The girls and I had it with wine, gin, tonic, and let me tell you, it pairs perfectly with virtually any drink.
Don’t worry, this isn’t just for twenty-somethings. I took my parents here for a midweek brunch and they loved it. Honestly, their weekday lunch menu is underrated.
The star of the show was their Sesame Soy Chicken Wings, which had a zesty soy glaze that Pop loved. Meanwhile, Mum loved their seasonal Pan-Fried Seabass, which was a solid lighter option, especially if you love indulging in fresh seafood.
| Pro Tip: While booking isn’t required, it’ll definitely help guarantee a seat, especially for larger groups, as the tables go fast. |
Atlas Bar
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Address: 376 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4LY
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 12 pm – 12 am
- Friday to Saturday: 12 pm – 1 am
Phone: +44 161 834 2124
Best For: Exploring gin, bottomless brunch, and drinks on the terrace
Honestly, Atlas Bar might just be the best bar in Manchester. The wine selection is solid, the beer’s premium, and the cocktails? Always a good time. But their speciality? Their world-class gin collection with over 570 varieties and counting. If you’re into gin or just curious, Atlas Bar is like a playground.
Atlas hits that sweet spot between relaxed and classy, which is why my friends and I often find ourselves here, winding down on a Friday night by the terrace. Though I’m not a gin aficionado, I’m close to being one after trying their Gin of the Week deal, making it easy to explore something new at just £5–£7.
We’re also guilty of popping in for their bottomless brunch menu, and we’d do it again in a heartbeat. Trust me. For £35 per person, you can choose any dish from their breakfast, brunch, or lunch menu, plus enjoy 90 minutes of bottomless drinks, from brunch cocktails to their signature G&Ts, and more.
| Pro Tip: Ask the staff for their “gin bible”, Atlas Bar’s bespoke catalogue showcasing their gin collection. It has everything that you need to know to help you choose, such as botanical style, flavour profile, and even recommended garnishes and pairings. |
Rain Bar
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Address: 80 Great Bridgewater St, Manchester M1 5JG
Operating Hours:
- Friday to Saturday: 12 pm – 12 am
- Sunday: 12 pm – 8 pm
- Monday to Thursday: 12 pm – 11 pm
Phone: +44 161 235 6500
Best For: Classic pub meals and pints of beer on the terrace
Well-loved by canal-side drinkers for over 26 years, Rain Bar is one of Deansgate Locks’ best-kept secrets, an “if you know, you know” spot. Housed in a former umbrella factory, it’s now a flagship JW Lees pub and one of the most underrated beer gardens in Manchester.
Don’t be fooled by their relaxing garden vibe. It’s kitted out with heaters and a canopy, making it the perfect escape for day drinking or late-night relaxing. Trust me, it’s the kind of place where “just one pint” turns into three rounds and last-minute orders of small plates you didn’t know you needed.
Speaking of their drinks, expect to be spoilt for choice. From JW Lees lagers and cask ales to creative cocktails and non-alcoholic options. And the food? Must try. Their 3-for-£19.95 small plates deal is a steal, perfect for sharing.
| Pro Tip: A wine lover? Pop by on Wine Wednesdays for can’t-miss deals. |
Rebellion Manchester
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Address: 2B Whitworth Street West, Manchester M1 5WZ
Operating Hours:
- Friday to Saturday: 6 pm – 10 pm
- Sunday: 7 pm – 4 am
Phone: +44 161 637 1960
Best For: Punk, rock, indie, and metal music lovers
If you’ve never been to Rebellion, this is your sign to go. It’s one of Manchester’s best proper live music venues where the gigs are loud and packed with people having a good time. Don’t worry, it’s nothing wild, just a lot of headbanging and maybe someone screaming a couple rows away to a killer set list.
It’s the place to discover no-name metal bands that absolutely shred before they get famous. There are also loads of themed nights like Emo vs Pop Punk, Tribute Band Fridays, and more, so be sure to check their listings.
When it comes to the drinks, don’t expect too much. This is a no-frills bar, just bottled beers, ciders, a few spirits, the occasional Jägerbomb, and water (if you remember to ask for it!).
| Pro Tip: Book tickets well in advance, as some events sell out quickly, especially nostalgic throwbacks, so don’t let anyone fool you into simply walking in. |
Where to Stay by Deansgate Locks
While there aren’t any accommodations along Deansgate Locks, there are many great picks nearby that’ll be no more than a 10-minute walk.
Treehouse Hotel Manchester
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Address: Blackfriars St, Manchester M3 2EQ
Phone: +44 161 553 0055
Pricing: £££
Good to know: Accessible rooms are also available, with roll-in showers, grab bars, and more on request.
If you want to stay as close to Deansgate Locks as you can, Treehouse Hotel is your best pick. Facing the River Irwell, it’s a breezy 5-minute walk to the Locks area.
The hotel has a woodland-inspired vibe, with reclaimed wood and bird boxes. The playfulness continues to the lobby, which also doubles as a vibrant social hub, hosting everything from pop-ups to DJ events.
And when you’re not exploring the Locks, you can enjoy the fully-equipped gym, catch a movie at the screening room, or sip drinks at their rooftop bar.
Hilton Manchester Deansgate
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Address: 303 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4LQ
Phone: +44 161 870 1600
Pricing: £££
Good to know: To get the most out of your stay, keep an eye out for executive, breakfast-included, or Honors rates.
Located on the lower floors of the iconic Beetham Tower, The Hilton Manchester is a four-star hotel that’s worth the splurge, especially for its floor-to-ceiling windows. I’ll admit, these give you one of the best panoramic views of the city that is nothing short of stunning.
Beyond the skyline, you’ve got their indoor pool, steam room, and fitness centre, among others, to enjoy. And when hunger strikes, the Podium Restaurant on the ground floor is a go-to for seasonal British cuisine.
The Edwardian Manchester
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Address: Free Trade Hall, Peter St, Manchester M2 5GP
Phone: +44 161 835 9929
Pricing: £££
Good to know: While guide dogs and registered assistance animals are, of course, allowed, The Edwardian keeps things fur-free.
Have you ever noticed that grand old building on Peter Street? The Italian Palazzo-style one with carved figures and columns? That’s a hotel. Yup, it’s the Edwardian.
While the outside looks quite cold and serious, the inside’s a different story. The rooms are spacious, beds are a dream, and there’s a spa that’s always calling my name. The restaurants aren’t your standard hotel dining either, with award-winning Japanese and Mexican small plates that just work somehow.
Moxy Manchester City
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Address: 8 Atkinson St, Manchester M3 3HH
Phone: +44 161 529 1655
Pricing: ££
Good to know: It can get busy on the weekends, making it ideal for social travellers rather than those looking to relax.
For the sweet spot between boutique and budget, I’d say that Moxy is a solid pick. Tucked away in the lively district of Spinningfields, it’s only an 8-minute walk to Deansgate Locks, perfect for a little sightseeing on the way.
While the rooms aren’t massive, they’re cleverly designed, so I’ve got no complaints. Smart TVs, under-bed storage, motion-sensor lighting. Nice, ey? Sadly, you won’t find frilly extras here like fluffy slippers and robes.
YOTEL Manchester Deansgate
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Address: 2 John Dalton St, Manchester M2 6JP
Phone: +44 161 511 5060
Pricing: ££
Good to know: Extras like use of the spa and breakfasts will cost a tad more
Right on the corner of Deansgate and John Dalton Street, YOTEL is quite literally smack in the middle of all things good about Manchester. If you guessed clubs, shopping, drinks, and, er, more drinks, then you’re spot on.
And if you’re the no-frills, straightforward type of traveler, then you’ll enjoy YOTEL. While the rooms are compact, you’ll still get a comfy bed, Wi-Fi, and the works, perfect for short stays.
The Alan
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Address: 18 Princess St, Manchester M1 4LG
Phone: +44 161 236 8999
Pricing: ££
Good to know: Just note that rooms on the lower floors tend to be noisy, so if you’re a light sleeper, it’s worth requesting rooms on the higher floors.
If there’s one word that I could use to describe The Alan, it’d be easygoing because that’s what I feel whenever I stay here. Ticking all of my boxes, The Alan’s straightforward and convenient. City-centre base? Yes. Well-equipped? Yep.
While the rooms are on the smaller side, they actually feel quite personal once you’ve settled in. If you haven’t had enough of Deansgate Locks, the lobby also doubles as a bar-kitchen spot, perfect for another round.
