The Angel, a historic pub near Manchester's Northern Quarter, has been recognised as one of the oldest freehouses in the city. It first opened in 1851 as the Weaver's Arms, serving as a meeting spot for workers during the Industrial Revolution. Last year, The Telegraph named it one of the 500 best pubs in England, and it has since received a nomination for Best Pub at the Manchester Food & Drink Festival Awards.
A Landmark With a Modern Touch
Located on Angel Street in the historic Angel Meadow neighbourhood, the pub has retained its old-school charm while adopting a modern character. Landlord Ciaran Keaney has managed The Angel for the past 20 years, describing it as a 'subtle' venue. There are no TVs and live music is rare, though the pub is considering changes after its 175-year celebrations in July, which featured local artisans and poets.
Food That Draws Crowds
The pub's kitchen, led by head chef Dan England, offers dishes beyond typical pub grub, including Guinness sausages with cheddar mash and stout gravy, squash gnocchi, roasted guinea fowl, and confit duck leg. The Sunday roasts have built a firm reputation, with options like locally-sourced beef rump, crispy lamb shoulder, and butternut squash terrine, plus optional 'black pudding bon bons'.
Dan England, who started in hospitality washing pots in a chippy, took over the kitchen after meeting Keaney at his wine shop, Carringtons in Chorlton. He said, "I immediately fell in love with the pub and could see its potential." Since reopening the kitchen, the pub has attracted new visitors while giving regulars another reason to return.
Recognition and Community Spirit
The Angel's next chapter has been recognised with a nomination for Pub of the Year at the 2026 Manchester Food and Drink Festival Awards. As a free house, it is not tied to a single brewery, allowing it to offer a wide selection of drinks, including Guinness, Krombacher, regional ales, and wines curated by Master of Wine Jo Ahearne.
The pub celebrated its 175th birthday by launching its own Slum IPA and hosting a weekend of festivities with local musicians, poets, and speeches from local politicians. Famous visitors have included Maya Jama, who has visited a couple of times.
The Angel is at 6 Angel St, Manchester M4 4BQ.
