Lass O'Gowrie, Manchester

Rumour has it it's changed hands lately but that wouldn't explain just two beers on offer when we called the other day, GK IPA (sigh)and the house bitter, which was perfectly fine. Certainly a change since the last time we were in town two or three years ago. Whatever, it is an interesting pub with some nice features, especially the snug, and well worth a visit. Probably the best bet later in the week when the average age in most of the other venues locally descends into the low 20s.

Located in the city centre, close to the BBC, you might see someone off that prog called Cori. Good range of real ales served, staff good and friendly well worth a visit.

20 of us met in here for a Spurs game at man.city last season from as far afield as Belfast, Newcastle and London. We went in there on a recommendation and it didnt disappoint. Will be back as soon as Spurs are.

Excellent quirky pub near Oxford Road station. Has a superb tiled exterior. The main room is a little dark and its long with a tile/wood floor and brick pillars. The bar is at one end and there is a smaller 'library' type room in the middle of the pub. Benches and high stools the 'library' is a little more comfortable. There is a small exterior patio adjoining the river (though don't expect gorgeous river vistas! Rock/indie music in background, there are a number of old arcade machines, including a table top Glaxians! Apparently they have a games night once a week. Beer quality was excellent & its in Good Beer Guide 2010. 3 real ales, including local brews (Allbrights on my visit) Very much to my personal taste, its an informal, quirky ale bar.

Splendid traditional pub, with a slightly ramshackle feel to the interior which adds to rather than subtracts from the charm of the place. The bar is in the 'Velveted Saloon', but the snug off to the side is a great spot just to sit and ponder the wonders of the universe with a pint in hand. There is also a small balcony overlooking the Medlock. Beer-wise, only six of the ten handpumps were in use, and most of these (apart from the 'house' Betty's Best) were Greene King offerings, but my pint of the Spitting Feathers Dark Velvet Mild (£2.70) guest ale was excellent. Quite rightly, one of Manchester's 'destination' pubs.