Octagon Theatre Bolton

You're not just grabbing a quick interval drink here – this is proper pre-show dining done right. The bar at Bolton's premier theatre pulls double duty as both a civilised spot for a glass of wine before the curtain rises and a destination in its own right for anyone who appreciates decent drinks without the theatre-going crowds. The cocktail menu goes well beyond your standard G&T, and they've clearly put thought into their wine selection rather than just stocking whatever's cheapest. The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between sophisticated enough for a special night out but relaxed enough that you won't feel overdressed if you've just wandered down from the town centre. Whether you're catching the latest production or just fancy somewhere a bit more grown-up than the usual Bolton drinking spots, this works brilliantly.