20 Stories

20 Stories sits on the 19th floor of No.1 Spinningfields, the tallest rooftop in central Manchester and the one with the widest view. It splits into a restaurant, a bar, and an open air terrace that wraps the building for a near 360 degree look over the city. The Rooftop Guide ranks it among Manchester's standout sky bars.

This is the special occasion rooftop, priced to match the view. If you want a cocktail at golden hour with the skyline laid out below, it earns the cost. If you want a casual cheap round, the value is better at street level.

The terrace is the draw, with heaters, fire pits, and seating that looks out across Manchester. Inside, the bar and restaurant share a polished, low lit space for when the weather turns. Visit Manchester highlights the panoramic outlook as the reason the room books out.

The cocktail list is the core of the bar, built to be sipped slowly while you take in the view, alongside a strong wine and Champagne offer. The kitchen runs a full modern European menu if you want to make a night of it. Order a signature cocktail and claim a terrace seat before sunset, which is the timing regulars recommend.

A dressed up Manchester crowd of date nights, celebrations, and after work groups in finance and law from the Spinningfields offices below. Thursday to Saturday evenings are the busiest. Sunday afternoons on the terrace run calmer.

• Book a terrace table and aim for sunset for the best of the view.
• Premium prices, but the outlook is the best in the city center, per The Rooftop Guide.
• Smart casual dress. Dress up a little for the room.

Planning a night out? Read our top 10 bars in Manchester guide. Browse more Manchester rooftop bars, find rooftop bars near you, or start at the Manchester city guide.