Sinclairs Oyster Bar

Restaurant | Manchester | England | United Kingdom

Historic pubs in Manchester

The "Sinclairs Oyster Bar" in Manchester, England, is a historic pub that is considered one of the oldest surviving buildings in the city, with origins dating back to 1720. It is located in the heart of the city and is part of the picturesque Shambles Square, an area that was carefully rebuilt after the destruction caused by the IRA bombing in 1996 – including the impressive relocation of the building by 300 meters, stone by stone. The building itself is a Grade II listed structure featuring rustic wooden beams, low ceilings, and a charming Tudor style that exudes history and coziness. Notably, the expansive beer garden is regarded as one of the busiest in Manchester, offering a vibrant atmosphere on sunny days. The pub is also known for its strict "No-Phones" policy, allowing guests a digital detox and promoting genuine conversations.

Best fish and chips Manchester

Culinarily, the "Sinclairs Oyster Bar" represents classic British pub fare with a touch of tradition. Despite its name, oysters are rarely found on the menu today – a nod to past times when they were a cheap staple in the 19th century. Instead, the offerings shine with dishes like "Fish and Chips," served with crispy batter and fresh fish, often hailed by guests as one of the best in the city. Another favorite is the "Steak and Ale Pie," a hearty pastry filled with tender meat and a rich beer gravy that captures the essence of British comfort food. The kitchen focuses on simple yet flavorful preparations, prioritizing the freshness of the ingredients. The menu is complemented by a selection of bar snacks that pair perfectly with a pint.

Where to drink beer in Manchester

The drink selection is a central part of the experience, as the pub is operated by the Yorkshire brewery Samuel Smith, known for its high-quality traditional ales. Particularly popular is the "Samuel Smith’s Organic Lager," a refreshing beer with a pure, natural taste that is favored by connoisseurs. The "Organic Chocolate Stout" also stands out – a dark beer with sweet, chocolatey notes that offers a delightful change. The bar also features a wide range of bottled beers and ciders that perfectly enhance the rustic ambiance. "Sinclairs" is a cash-only establishment, which underscores its old-fashioned character and is accepted by guests as part of its charm.

Contact details

Web
://

Phone

Address
2 Cathedral Gates
M3 1SW Manchester

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday12:00 - 22:00
Monday12:00 - 23:00
Tuesday12:00 - 23:00
Wednesday12:00 - 23:00
Thursday12:00 - 23:00
Friday12:00 - 23:00
Saturday12:00 - 23:00

Reviews

2938 Reviews

Olivia Lopez
02.03.2025

We only went for a couple of pints, which were surprisingly affordable given the pub’s location! The interior has a charming, authentic feel, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.
oktaviana fabiola
02.03.2025

Bar ini sudah berdiri sangat lama dan bangunannya juga sangat lama. Selain beer disini ada fish & chips yang enak. Pelayannya ramah. Untuk tempat duduk bisa di dalam atau di area luar.
new life
26.09.2024

I have never been here. But I see that Tiny Tim has. This place is the backdrop for some of his outdoor videos. I might like to come in and listen to his rant between himself his mum, and uncle Barry, who has plants in the attic.
Chris Dodd
15.02.2025

Amazing historic pub, Avi especially took good care us , and managed to source and serve us oysters even they they had run out.
Grzegorz Surowiecki
11.02.2025

Dramat …. Nigdy więcej Piwo 7,5£ podane jak na zdjęciu
Pedro M
30.01.2025

great bar with good drinks
jordan e
28.01.2025

Great prices great building
Bernie Scicluna
21.01.2025

Favourite place in manchester
Mark D
10.01.2025

One of the best bars in Manchester especially in summer as the atmosphere is fun🤟😎🍻 cheap beer too!
Lorenzo Terzi
02.01.2025

Maleducati è dir poco
Viola Perullo
02.01.2025

Ambiente accogliente e “storico” se cercate un posto tipico dove mangiare nel cuore di Manchester. La saletta al pian terreno é molto intima e ha il fascino dei tradizionali locali. In due abbiamo ordinato un buonissimo fish & chips e la classica torta pie ripiena di stufato e puré. I camerieri sono molto gentili e disponibili. Consigliato! Ps: l’orario di cena è intorno alle 18.30/19 più tardi si corre il rischio di non venire accettati.
Dave Revell
30.12.2024

Went in today for.food and a pint, very busy, understandable for the time of year. Queued at the bar, (only 1 server) young lad obviously stressed out delivering food gobbing off about us being in the way, but nowhere else to stand as so busy. No customer service, glad we walked out after reading other crap reviews...
James Ferns
28.12.2024

Exceptional beer choice and notably reasonable prices. The pub is beautiful and a must-visit for all Mancunians, and ordinary visitors alike. My only gripe is that - at least upstairs - we're deprived of music!
Sam Rust
14.12.2024

Average at best. Given the historical location we were excited to visit. Beer flat and tasteless. Being a Sam Smiths pub there is a 1001 rules to obey. Better offerings nearby.
Rajeev Gopal
13.12.2024

Nice pubbish decor. But stinking toilets with sticky floors - ewww😷 Food is ok. But you pay first before getting the food. Limited menu for vegetarians
PR / B
12.12.2024

Visited a while back as stated Sunday roast was available outside on the board. Popped in, ordered and sat down. Ten minutes later were told the Sunday roast isn’t ready. Bit random but ok. Ordered a lasagne and a steak pie. Both came out within ten minutes. The pie along with the mash was frozen on the inside still. The lasagne was frozen in the middle still. We were in such hysterics as to how funny this was we just literally got up and left the food on the table and walked out. Nobody gave two shites about us. Enough said! 👍

 

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