The Deansgate

You're on Deansgate itself, so you know exactly what you're getting—a reliable pub with decent footfall and the kind of atmosphere that works whether you're nipping in for one or settling in for the evening. The Deansgate does the essentials well: straightforward ales, lagers and spirits, reasonably priced drinks (expect around £5-6 for a pint), and enough tables to actually find a seat even on a Friday. It's the sort of place locals gravitate to because it's unpretentious and gets the job done, rather than trying to be something it's not.