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Whether you're planning a girls' weekend in Manchester, organising a hen do, or heading into the city to celebrate a birthday, there’s no better way to spend your time than sipping cocktails in the sunshine. Manchester’s summer scene is made for it – think rooftop bars, open-air dining, and laid-back spots that are perfect for catching up, celebrating, and soaking in those skyline views.
Top Rooftop Hotspots for Your Girls Weekend in Manchester
1. 20 Stories Rooftop Bar
Perched in the heart of Spinningfields, 20 Stories offers panoramic skyline views alongside elevated plates and bottomless brunch.
2. The Ivy Spinningfields Brasserie & Roof Garden
Glam up your get-together with lush greenery, luxe seating, and rooftop drinks in the centre of the city.
3. YES Rooftop Bar
A four-level creative hub combining craft beer, rooftop views, and live music—the perfect setting for birthday celebrations.
4. Terrace NQ
A hidden gem upstairs in the Northern Quarter, featuring industrial-chic décor, leafy terraces, and vibrant cocktails.
5. Dukes 92
Nestled beside the canal in Castlefield, this stylish bar‑restaurant’s balcony overlooks historic lanes—ideal for spritzes and celebration vibes.
6. Atlas Bar
Under the Deansgate arches, this Manchester institution is all about lush greenery, soft seating, and a world-class gin collection.
Best Al Fresco Dining Spots
If your crew loves open-air dining, here are top-tier venues offering delicious menus in sunlit surroundings:
- Embankment Kitchen – Located within CitySuites, this contemporary restaurant serves modern British classics with a twist. Enjoy seasonal dishes, and craft cocktails on the elegant terrace ideal for a relaxed yet refined dining experience.
- The Laundrette, Chorlton – perfect for relaxed cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere.
- Dimitri’s, Deansgate – lively Mediterranean flavours with terrace seating.
- Diecast – Manchester’s largest beer garden, perfect for casual gatherings.
- Freight Island – industrial-chic dining with covered outdoor spaces, ideal all summer long.
- Barca Bar, Castlefield – canal-side charm with pizza, tapas, and chilled cocktails by the water.
Girls Weekend Manchester: What to Plan
Day 1 – Arrival & Rooftop Kickoff Check into your CitySuites apartment and unwind. Later, gather your best gals at 20 Stories for a champagne-fuelled evening. Snap skyline selfies and enjoy the energetic summertime crowd.
Day 2 – Brunch & Relaxation Enjoy a leisurely brunch at The Oast House’s courtyard. After recharging, explore the Northern Quarter. Sip cocktails at Terrace NQ before heading to Dukes 92 for canal-side drinks at dusk.
Day 3 – Birthday Bash or Party Finale Start with afternoon tapas at El Gato Negro. For an elevated party experience, pre-book The Ivy Spinningfields or YES rooftop, complete with DJ sets. It’s sophisticated and fun, ideal for toasting a birthday or any celebration.
Tips for the Ultimate Experience
- Book Early: Premium terraces like El Gato Negro and 20 Stories fill up quickly.
- Dress Smart: Several venues, especially early-evening rooftops, have a smart-casual dress code.
- Layer Up: Manchester evenings can chill - consider a light wrap.
- Transport & Groups: City Suites’ central location makes trams, rideshares, and group transport convenient for venue-hopping.
- Capture the Moments: Rooftop views, terrace greenery, reflective canal shots - Instagram gold!
Why Stay with CitySuites?
For a girls’ weekend that feels as good as it looks, CitySuites offers the ultimate blend of style, comfort, and convenience. Our luxury serviced apartments provide more space than a hotel, with plush beds, fully equipped kitchens, and access to five-star facilities including a pool, spa, and 24-hour concierge. Whether you're celebrating or simply reconnecting, we make your stay feel special from the moment you check in.
Final Take
Sunshine, good vibes, and a few unforgettable memories with your best girls – that’s what a weekend in Manchester is all about. Whether it’s a birthday, hen do or just an excuse to get away, CitySuites makes the perfect base for a city break to remember. From rooftop cocktails and Mediterranean-style feasts to canal-side drinks as the sun goes down, Manchester is packed with stylish spots to eat, drink and celebrate. So round up the group, book your stay, and get ready to soak up those summer vibes – Manchester’s calling!
