

The Circus Tavern
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Opening Hours
About
A tiny pub with a long-standing reputation, this spot is known for its well-kept cask ales and Guinness. The walls are covered in Manchester memorabilia, including nods to Manchester United. Two small rooms branch off the narrow bar, one with a fireplace. The landlord and owners are often mentioned for their presence, contributing to the pub’s character. Regulars and visitors alike appreciate the traditional feel and the sense of stepping into a local institution. It’s often described as having an outsized welcome despite its compact size.
Customer Reviews
One of the best pubs in Manchester, if not the world. The best atmosphere brought to you by the best people. A pub that genuinely feels like home. The saying goes ‘the smallest bar in Europe, the biggest welcome in the world’, and it’s true. It’s a place where you can walk in by yourself and walk out having made friends with everyone inside. A pub is only as good as its landlord, and The Circus wouldn’t be a show without its headline act; Baz. A proper personality and a natural. It’s a great time every time in The Circus- it’ll always leave you smiling! Well priced too, and a fantastic ‘creamy’ Guinness every time. The new JW Lees Boddies is also on cask. The Cirus is ‘The Cream of Manchester’, and one of the city’s oldest pubs, dating back to 1842. A true ‘United’ pub, where George Best used to be a regular.
I love this place. I stumbled upon it by chance. I was staying across the street at the townhouse. I saw a few pubs out the windows so I thought I should explore. I am so happy I stopped in. When you walk through the door you are greeted by a towering figure with a huge grin and really good energy. His name is Barry, hes the owner. The bar itself is about 3 feet in length and Barry asks you what youre having then tells you to go find a seat. There's 2 rooms with seats and TVs, everyone gets to know each other there. Barry makes sure the energy stays positive, the pints are very reasonably priced, and you will have a good time. Im from San Diego, and will definitely be back! If youre anywhere near the area, make sure you stop in for a pint. You wont regret it.
A must visit for any pub enthusiasts. The cask ales are well kept and the walls are adorned with some of Manchester’s finest.