The Disco Guide to Manchester
“ In 2019 (yes, remember the pre-Covid times?), we shared our own Disco Guide to London with you. Which, to our great pleasure, has proven to be immensely enjoyed by all of you. And now, thanks to our guest contributor Phoebe Nuttall, we are pleased to introduce our second Disco Guide... to Manchester.”
The Disco Mag xx
Manchester is a city that's proud of its past and loved by many (read about it in Elton John's book!). You might not be able to boogie in The Twisted Wheel anymore, but there are certainly some bars and shops where you can have your very own 70s style fun.
FOOD & DRINK
DUSK TIL PAWN
Whilst you might not be able to buy a gold watch from Dusk Til Pawn, you can buy a Gold Rush cocktail (which, let's face it, is far more exciting). This hidden little bar is the epitome of the Northern Quarter - it's vibrant, quirky and fun. The front is decked out like a neon pawn shop, but inside is a fantastic old fashioned feel and 70s/80s tunes on the jukebox.
Location:
Stevenson Square, Manchester, M1 1DN
THE LAUNDRETTE
Cocktails and carbs in all its retro glory! The Laundrette is the perfect place if you're craving a handmade pizza in a classic, vintage-style restaurant. Get yourself down for a relaxed, vibrant environment and comforting home-cooked food.
Location:
32 Beech Road, Manchester, M21 9EL
SAMMY’S
A true vintage vision in Ancoats! Sammy's really is hidden away with no big signage, but it'll be so worth it once you get in. Retro TVs, the classic yellow wallpaper and of course, martinis!
Location:
26 Swan Street, Manchester, M4 5JQ
THE TEMPLE
Fancy a drink in a renovated public toilet? No? You will after you check out The Temple, a little electric bar in the centre of town. It has a relaxed ,yet tasteful 70s feel and, of course, a jukebox.
Location:
100 Great Bridgewater Street, Manchester, M1 5JW
CHERRY JAM
Cherry Jam is possibly the grooviest place in Stockport. With classic brown furniture, plants everywhere and bold orange patterns on the wall, it's safe to say that you can get your 70s fix here! Cherry Jam sells all kinds of drinks, from 'Stockport's Own' cocktails to classic sodas, so be sure to get down and immerse yourself in this fantastic 70s atmosphere.
Location:
2/4 Mealhouse Brow, Stockport, SK1 1JP
LOCATIONS
70S HOUSE MANCHESTER
If you're a follower of the vintage community on Instagram, you most likely will have heard people rave about the 70s palace Estelle Bilson has created in South Manchester. Of course, we can't share the address because Estelle lives there, but be sure to check out @70shousemanchester on Instagram and get some serious interior design inspiration (especially the disco bathroom!!).
STOCKPORT COUNCIL OFFICES
Maybe this seems like a bit of a strange one, but fans of the hit 70s inspired TV show 'Life on Mars' will recognise the building as the exterior of the iconic police station. You might not spot any Ford Cortinas parked up, but you can see the stairs where Gene did his press statements and the roof where Sam took his jump. Why not don your 70s gear and take some photos outside CID?
Location:
Stopford House, Stockport. It's directly opposite the court on John Street
EVERYMAN CINEMA
Everyman takes the vintage experience to a new level with a luxury retro cinema! The whole building is a beautiful nod to the 60s and 70s with brown and yellow wallpaper, vintage TVs, huge plants and the classic wooden bar area. It's the perfect place to enjoy your favourite 70s film right in the heart of Manchester.
Location:
ABC Buildings, 23 Quay Street, Manchester, M3 4AS
BARBERELLA
Too much hair? Pop into Barberella, a fabulous and authentic hairdresser hidden in the centre of town. It's tucked away in the back of Pop Boutique, so be sure to stock up your vintage wardrobe after you've had your new 'do!
Location:
34-36 Oldham Street, Manchester, M1 1JN
SHOPS
BLUE RINSE
Blue Rinse is a treasure trove of retro jeans, sunglasses, jackets and everything in between. It's huge and perfect for getting lost in your own vintage world.
Location:
29-31 Oldham Street, Manchester, M1 1JG
BARNARDO’S VINTAGE
Well-loved by the Manchester vintage community, Barnardo's is a hidden gem on Cheadle high street. They sell everything from clothes to cups and all at a fairly reasonable price. It's definitely worth a visit if you're looking for the perfect new outfit to hit the disco!
Location:
76 High Street, Cheadle, SK8 1AE
AFFLECKS
Afflecks is a classic Manchester emporium! It spans over four floors, and you definitely won't be short of vintage shops to raid. They also have some great vinyl and music shops if you're in need of something new to boogie to.
Location:
52 Church Street, Manchester, M4 1PW
TOP OF THE TOWN
This cute little shop in the heart of Stockport is the perfect retro retreat. It's the perfect place to find your newest old dress or shirt, and the lovely Sophia will always make you feel right at home. Shake your tail feather!
Location:
17 Lower Hillgate, Stockport, SK3 8TP
20TH CENTURY STORES
A brilliant collective of vintage traders, all compiled into a classic retro building. You're bound to find all sorts of treasure here: clothes, art, badges, books, furniture, 20th Century Stores has it all!
Location:
26, 27 Market Place, Cheshire, Stockport, SK1 1ES
Have anything to add to the list? Please share with us in the comments so that we can keep this guide as up to date as we can xx