Abbey, Manchester

Reported to be reopening in the summer: https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/historic-hulme-pub-reopen-legendary-33974757.amp. "The Abbey will serve 'affordable, hearty pub grub' and a broad range of beers, with a dedicated kitchen serving Pieminister pies alongside pours from local breweries".

The Old Abbey Taphouse advertises itself as a creative, social, progressive space, so yes, it is a student bar. The corner entrance leads to seating to the right along the front windows, and some DJ equipment to the left before the bar found mid-way up the left-hand wall. Unfortunately the single hand pump was reverse clipped so it was keg only. At the rear of the pub is a large fireplace, a couple of tables and a piano. There was some dance music playing and the disco ball was spinning during my early midweek evening visit. Down the side of the pub is a covered area full of picnic tables. The aftermath of a recent Spring Equinox Feast was evident. The barmaid wasn’t very friendly, and the surroundings were typical grubby student bar. This place isn’t aimed at me so I’ll not be returning.

Was planning a visit here in the run up to Christmas 2021 but when we got there we discovered they were holding a ticket-only event (£10 entry) with live music etc. As we were only wanting a swift drink before moving on, it wouldn't have been worthwhile for us so we had to leave it on this occasion. This is a little out of the way so if you are planning a visit, I'd recommend checking the Events section of their web site before your visit. The Facebook page didn't list the event, so the web site may be your best bet. It's a curious old building that appears to have been left standing as more modern development has taken place around it, and I look forward to trying to visit again at some point.