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Celebrating in Manchester Top 12 Birthday Party Ideas

Celebrating in Manchester: Top 12 Birthday Party Ideas 

| Last Updated: December 2023

So, your or someone special’s birthday is coming up and you’re thinking of celebrating it in Manchester? Brilliant choice! This city isn’t just about football and music—it’s bursting with vibrant experiences waiting to be discovered. 

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, turning another year older here is nothing short of magical. Ready to dive into fabulous ways to mark your special day in this buzzing city? Let’s make this birthday one for the books!

Invite friends to a challenging adventure at The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience

Address: St Johns, Lower Byrom St, Manchester M3 4FP, United Kingdom

Contact Details: N/A

Website: https://the-crystal-maze.com/manchester

Opening Hours: Monday, closed; Tuesday to Friday 1:30 to 9 PM;  Saturday 9 AM to 9 PM; Sunday 9 AM to 6 PM

Attention, 90s kids celebrating the big 3-0 in Manchester! Remember the iconic TV show, Crystal Maze? Guess what? Now’s your chance to be a part of the action, right in the heart of Manchester!

Situated a stone’s throw away from the Museum of Science and Industry, The Crystal Maze Experience is a must-visit. Secure your spot through their online portal and arrive at your scheduled time, ready for adventure.

Upon arrival, a delightful staff member will lead your squad through the maze. As you navigate, you’ll encounter a series of intriguing challenges and puzzles. 

While only one team member can tackle each challenge from inside, the rest can offer their brain power from the outside.

Success in each challenge earns you a crystal, which translates to extra time during the grand finale: a mad dash to grab as many golden and silver tickets as possible!

Pro Tip:
When planning your visit to the Crystal Maze Live Experience in Manchester, consider reaching out to their guest services via email at [email protected]. 

They can provide you with any special instructions, recommendations, or updates that might enhance your experience. 

Additionally, if you’re celebrating a special occasion like a birthday, stag, or hen do, they offer specific packages that might make your day even more memorable.

Gather your folks at The Refuge and drink the night away

Address: Oxford St, Manchester M60 7HA, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +441612335151

Website: http://www.refugemcr.co.uk/

Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 12 to 11 PM; Friday to Saturday 12 PM to 12 AM; Sunday 12 to 10:30 PM

Hey, ever wandered down Oxford Street and spotted The Refuge? It’s THE place to be for those looking to add a touch of class to their birthday festivities. If the big 5-0 is on the horizon in Manchester, you might want to keep reading.

Nestled within the majestic Palace Hotel, The Refuge promises a dining experience that’s both roomy and refined. 

And if you’re thinking, “Looks exclusive, can I even enter?” Oh, you bet! Just saunter through the hotel’s jaw-dropping lobby and take a left. But if you’re feeling self-conscious, there’s a sneaky entrance at the street’s edge.

And here’s a juicy tidbit: The Refuge is currently under the watchful eyes of The Unabombers, that cool DJ pair who also have Volta under their belt.

Also, their menu’s a delightful mix of bite-sized wonders and plates perfect for passing around. Veggie lovers rejoice with options like smoky carrots and creamy burrata paired with sun-dried tomatoes. And for our vegan and gluten-free pals, they’ve got you covered too.

Pro Tip:
Seafood aficionados, their char-grilled tiger prawns are a must-try, and meat lovers, their steaks are to die for. Also, save some space for the sweet stuff. Think baked Alaska, gooey sticky toffee pudding, and zesty lime cheesecake.

Grab your birthday lunch at Tattu 

Address: 3 Hardman Square, Gartside St, Manchester M3 3EB, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +441618192060

Website: https://tattu.co.uk/locations/manchester/

Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday 12 PM to 12 M; Wednesday to Thursday 12 PM to 12 AM; Friday to Saturday 12 PM to 1 AM; 

If you’re looking for a top-notch birthday dining spot in Manchester, then set your sights on Tattu. Just in the heart of Spinningfields on Gartside Street, Tattu is a contemporary gem in the Chinese culinary scene.

Stepping into Tattu is like entering an art gallery— every dish is a masterpiece in presentation. The ambiance? Pure magic. Think enchanting cherry blossom trees, soft ambient glows, and a rich, moody vibe.

Whether you opt for their curated a la carte or dive into the tasting experience, your taste buds are in for a treat. And if it’s your maiden voyage to Tattu, the tasting menu is a no-brainer – it’s a culinary journey without the decision-making stress.

Pro Tip:
Star dishes? The caramel-kissed beef filet and the scallops paired with Chinese sausage are showstoppers. And trust your server— they’re pros at guiding you to the best picks.

Playfully escape prison life at Cell Block Three-Four

Address: 1A Watson St, Manchester M3 4EE, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +442031090488

Website: https://www.alcotraz.co.uk/locations/manchester

Opening Hours: Monday, closed; Tuesday to Wednesday 7:05 to 8:50 OM; Thursday to Friday 7:05 to 11:15 PM; Saturday 12 to 11:15 PM; Sunday 2:15 to 8:50 PM

On the hunt for a one-of-a-kind experience on your birthday? Dive into the world of Alcotraz: Cell Block Three-Four. Drawing inspiration from the infamous U.S. prison by the San Francisco Bay, Alcotraz serves up a blend of speakeasy vibes and theatrical flair.

Here’s the twist: Before heading to this quirky Manchester joint, you and your party crew need to hit the stores for your choice of spirits. Why? Because at Alcotraz, you’re the smuggler, sneaking in your own drinks! 

And no, simply stashing them in a bag won’t do. Time to channel your inner contraband master and get sneaky.

Pro Tip:
Once inside, prepare for a playful ‘lock-up’ with your birthday gang. Expect some light-hearted scolding from the on-duty guards and warden. But don’t worry, they’ll soon be whipping up your chosen cocktails with the very booze you brought in.

Channel your inner Babe Ruth inside the Base Bar

Address: 5 Millow St, Manchester M4 4DR, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +441613766907

Website: http://www.basebar.co.uk/

Opening Hours: Monday to Tuesday,closed; Wednesday to Friday 5 to 11:30 PM; Saturday 12 PM to 12 AM; Sunday 12 to 7 PM

Especially for baseball fans, The Base Bar is the perfect birthday getaway for you and your friends! Got that buddy who’s all about sports and sips? This is their dream come true.

Imagine swinging a bat in the heart of Manchester, all while sipping on your favourite drink. That’s the essence of Base Bar. It’s not just a bar; it’s a baseball haven with batting cages for both rookies and pros.

As night falls, the neon glow takes over, setting the stage for an electrifying vibe. Want to challenge yourself? Take a swing at their interactive targets, perfect for honing your precision, mastering your swing, or just letting loose.

Pro Tip:
When planning a visit to Base Bar, keep in mind that each of their three batting cages accommodates up to 5 people for a 30-minute session. If your group exceeds this number, they’ll automatically allocate additional cages for you during checkout. 

For instance, a group of 6 will get two adjacent cages. If you’re aiming for a full hour of baseball fun, remember to book two consecutive 30-minute slots.

Try cricket at the Sixes Social Cricket club 

Address: The Corn Exchange, New Cathedral St, Manchester M4 3TR, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +442045312000

Website: https://www.sixescricket.com/

Opening Hours: Monday, closed; Tuesday to Wednesday 4 to 11 PM; Thursday 4 PM to 12 AM; Friday 12 PM to 1 AM; Saturday 10 AM to 1 AM; Sunday 10 AM to 10 PM

If you’ve ever thought of mixing up classic English cricket with your birthday bash, then enter Sixes Social Cricket, Manchester’s answer to a sporty celebration.

Gone are the days of just sipping drinks and small talk at a bar. Manchester’s upped its game with activity bars, and Sixes is leading the charge.

At Sixes, it’s not just about watching cricket; you’re in the game. Dive into their cricket simulator, pick your challenge level, and decide: is it a team showdown or every player for themselves?

Got a birthday buddy with a competitive streak? This is their playground. Whether they’re a cricket newbie or a seasoned player, Sixes adds a fresh twist to the classic.

Pro Tip:
And hey, after flexing those batting muscles, swing by their bar. They’ve got the grub and drinks to keep the party energy high.

Go for a simple afternoon tea at the Richmond Tea Rooms

Address: 46 Sackville St, Manchester M1 3WF, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +441616974474

Website: http://www.richmondtearooms.com/

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10 AM to 7 PM

While most might not think of tea as the go-to for a birthday bash, Manchester’s got a spot that might just change your mind. We’re talking about the ever-so-famous Richmond Tea Rooms in Manchester.

Tucked away in the heart of Manchester’s Gay Village on Sackville Street, this isn’t your grandma’s tea room. One step inside Richmond, and you’re whisked away to a whimsical world reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland.

But it’s not just about sipping tea here. Richmond is all about immersing you in a full-blown sensory delight. With five unique afternoon tea options, each with its own boozy twist, you’re in for a treat. 

Think classic bites like dainty finger sandwiches, mini quiches, and those irresistible scones slathered in cream and jam.

Pro Tip:
The fun doesn’t stop at the food. Picture this: enjoying your tea while the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party unfolds or a fabulous drag queen takes the stage. Talk about a birthday to remember!

Golf can be fun: Try indoor golf with friends at the Junkyard Golf Club

Address: 2 First St, Manchester M15 4RP, United Kingdom

Contact Details: N/A

Website: http://www.junkyardgolfclub.co.uk/

Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 4 PM to 12 AM; Friday 2 PM to 1 AM; Saturday 12 PM to 1 AM; Sunday 12 to 10 PM

You might think golf and birthdays are a yawn-worthy combo, but hold that thought. Welcome to Junkyard Golf Club, where golf gets a wild makeover.

Meet Bozo, Gary, and Pablo— no, not your golf buddies, but the zany names of their courses. Dive into Pablo’s world, a jungle of junk, complete with pirate relics and eerie tombs. 

Feeling the groove? Gary’s got you with its disco-infused junkyard journey. And for those who like a sprinkle of spooky, Bozo’s creepy carnival, complete with clowns and a hall of mirrors, is the ticket.

Also, the place is decked out in jaw-dropping decor, making it a top pick for a birthday hangout with pals or a quirky date night. And with a killer playlist and a bar serving up cool concoctions, it’s not just golf; it’s a party.

Pro Tip:
If you’re planning a visit to Junkyard Golf Club with a group, you can easily book for up to eight people online. However, if you’re feeling spontaneous or missed the online booking window, they do offer some walk-up tickets on a first-come, first-served basis.

Have a sporty birthday at Box Deansgate 

Address: 125 Deansgate, Manchester M3 2BY, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +441618049720

Website: https://www.theboxbar.co.uk/bars/deansgate

Opening Hours: Monday 12 to 11 PM; Tuesday to Wednesday 12 PM to 12 AM; Thursday 12 PM to 1 AM; Friday 12 PM to 2 AM; Saturday 11 AM to 2 AM; Sunday 11 AM to 12 AM 

For the lads who can’t get enough of football, UFC, and a bit of competitive fun, Manchester’s got just the spot for your birthday bash: Box Deansgate.

This isn’t just your average bar. Beyond the drinks, it’s a hub for sports enthusiasts and those looking to dive into some classic bar games.

Enter shuffleboard— the game that’s making waves in Manchester’s bar scene. Think of it as the lovechild of curling and bowls, but with a Mancunian twist: playing with a pint in hand. At Box Deansgate, they’ve got a pair of sleek, 20-foot boards ready for you to slide those discs.

And if you’re in the mood for some liquid courage, their 2-for-1 cocktail deals throughout the week are hard to resist. The vibe? Always buzzing, making it a top pick for birthday festivities.

Pro Tip:
A heads-up for sports fans: if your big day aligns with a major match, you might want to swing by early. They’re known to broadcast all the major football, rugby, and UFC events, and seats fill up fast.

Cruise on a fancy boat inside the Manchester River Cruises 

Address: The Quays, Salford, Manchester M50 3AZ, United Kingdom

Contact Details: N/A

Website: http://www.manchesterrivercruises.com/

Opening Hours: Per booking basis 

Every birthday star dreams of a unique celebration, and with Manchester River Cruises, if you’ve got the budget, they’ve got the boat.

Imagine celebrating your special day, floating along the waterways of Manchester. Manchester River Cruises boasts two stellar party boats: The grand Princess Katherine, known as Manchester’s roomiest vessel, and the intimate Isabella, perfect for those close-knit gatherings.

The beauty of these cruises? They’re your canvas. Collaborate with one of their two partnered caterers for a delectable buffet spread, or if you’re feeling personal, bring along your own feast.

And when it comes to setting the mood, the decks are your stage. Whether you’re thinking of a live band, a DJ, or simply curating your own playlist straight from your phone, they’ve got the setup.

Pro Tip:
If you’re considering a birthday bash with Manchester River Cruises, remember they offer more than just the cruise experience. 

Located close to several iconic Manchester attractions, you can easily combine your river tour with a visit to the nearby Imperial War Museum North or the People’s History Museum. 

And for the football enthusiasts, the Old Trafford Museum & Stadium Tour is just a short walk from their Salford Quays stop. 

Have a cocktail party on top of the 20 Stories building 

Address: No. 1, 1 Hardman St, Manchester M3 3EB, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +441612043333

Website: http://20stories.co.uk/

Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday 12 to 11 PM; Friday to Saturday 12 PM to 1 AM

Don’t be fooled by the name; ’20 Stories’ isn’t about a towering skyscraper but a chic cocktail bar that’s a story in itself.

If you’re on the hunt for top-notch birthday dining spots in Manchester, make your way to the renowned 20 Stories in Spinningfields. Perched on the 19th floor of No 1 Spinningfields, it’s not quite 20 stories up, but it sure feels like it with those views.

Perfect for both grand birthday gatherings or a cosy date night, this place has a vibe for every occasion. 

Choose to revel in their plush indoor setting or step out to their terrace. With fire pits and lush greenery, it’s a more laid-back space, ideal for some burger delights.

The culinary offerings at 20 Stories strike a balance between hearty comfort and upscale finesse. Whether you’re diving into their five-course feast or picking from the a la carte, every dish is a treat. 

From the savoury confit duck leg and miso roasted aubergine to the sweet temptations like the rhubarb cheesecake or the indulgent black forest roulade, your taste buds are in for a celebration.

Pro Tip:
For a classic British touch, consider their Sunday Lunch set menu, offering a two or three-course meal with a panoramic view of Manchester. 

Feel like Robinhood at The Archertype 

Address: Unit 10A, Universal Building, 37 – 49 Devonshire St N, Manchester M12 6JR, United Kingdom

Contact Details: N/A

Website: https://www.thearchertype.co.uk/

Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday, closed; Thursday 5 to 9 PM; Friday 9:30 AM to 9 PM

Ever dreamt of channelling your inner Hawkeye from the Avengers? Well, here’s your chance— just remember, aim true and try not to take out any friends in the process (all in good fun, of course)!

For a birthday bash that’s a bit off the beaten path, make your way to Archertype. Located a short stroll from Ardwick station, just outside Manchester’s bustling city centre, it’s the place to be for a modern twist on combat games.

Move over paintball; there’s a new sheriff in town: archery tag, sometimes called combat archery. Think of it as dodgeball’s cooler, edgier cousin. 

Instead of dodging balls, you’ll be ducking and weaving from foam-tipped arrows. And no, it’s not a scene out of the Hunger Games— it’s all safe, thrilling fun.

Pro Tip:
The best part about this place is the more the merrier! Gather a sizable crew, and you might just snag a group discount, making it a top pick for a grand birthday gathering.
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