Tank & Paddle, Manchester

Now called the Tank & Paddle, it was very quiet during a recent Tuesday evening visit. The serving counter runs across the rear wall where premium and craft keg were available from a bored, but friendly barmaid. I went for half a Camden Hells which was a bit whiffy, which is shameful for such a large pub in the middle of tourist central – clean the bloody lines! The counter faces a long high banquette that backs onto booths that run across the front windows. Olympics and Cricket were airing on the televisions throughout, including a massive screen on the back bar. The upcoming Football Premier League season was also advertised. Stairs opposite the entrance lead up to a mezzanine with another bar counter, and seating that faces the aforementioned huge screen across a balcony that overlooks the downstairs counter. I imagine there’s a good atmosphere in here when the seats are full for an important game, but other than that it’s just a drinking barn with bad beer.

A two floored drinking barn inside the Printworks which is a mess at the moment as it gets a refurb. No-one in at all at 3 p.m. on a Thursday, including staff, so I had a walk around and thought "Nah, I'll not bother" and left. It's awful.

bad even by Yates standards. it was completely deserted this morning and no staff visible so shuffled along quickly. no real ale but they may put one on at the weekend. shiny and soulless but what else do you expect?

A large 2 floored Yates's. Its situated inside The Printworks complex and is very much for the younger end of the spectrum. A sterile modern style place that's keen on fruity vodkas, cocktaily drinks and fizzpop lagers.