A pub that hadn’t even opened this time last year has been named as a finalist for a top national award. Kennedy's Irish Bar in Didsbury, which initially faced criticism over its red paint job, is now a contender for the Best Town Pub award at the Great British Pub Awards.
From Controversy to Acclaim
When it was announced that Irish bar Kennedy’s, already successful with its deli and bar in Altrincham since 2021, would open a second location in Didsbury, some residents were less than thrilled. The controversy centered on the decision to repaint the building red, which led to some calling it 'hideous' and a 'terrible colour'. However, the colour choice was inspired by the red and black on the coat of arms of the Kennedy clan, a staple feature of many Irish venues.
Despite the initial backlash, the pub opened its doors in August last year. General manager Natalie told the Manchester Evening News at the time that she hoped the venue would become 'such a great addition to the area', adding that people should appreciate 'a pub opening when so many are closing is a good thing'.
A Hub for Entertainment and Community
Since opening, Kennedy's has drawn large crowds with its live music from Thursday to Sunday, live sports screenings, and popular happy hour specials, including a £5 pint club. Guinness is a big seller, and the bar was included in the Guinness Harp Guide 2026 for its pours. The pub also offers Poretti, Carlsberg, Estrella, Somersby Apple, Coors, and their own Kennedy's lager known as Tír na nÓg, named after a concept from Irish mythology meaning 'land of the young'. A range of Irish whiskeys, gins, and mixers like Club Orange are also available.
The team at Kennedy's expressed their delight at the nomination, stating: 'We're absolutely delighted to have been nominated for Best Town Pub at the Great British Pub Awards, especially as the only Greater Manchester venue in the category. What we've achieved in such a short space of time has been fantastic, and the response we've had from the local community has been incredible. We think people are simply happy that we've been able to bring something special back to this iconic building, which had stood empty for more than eight years.'
Awards and Recognition
Kennedy's Didsbury is shortlisted alongside The Ship Tavern in London, The Keynsham Courtyard in Bristol, The Dog & Collar in Liverpool, Dr Foster in Gloucester, and Cock 'N' Bull Co. in Stourbridge. Other Greater Manchester venues recognized at the 2026 awards include Stockport's Puss in Boots for Best Pub for Families and Urmston's The Garricks Head for Best Punch Pubs & Co Pub. Altrincham's Bell Inn is also a finalist for Best Stonegate Group Pub.
The winners will be announced in Leeds at the end of September. Kennedy's Irish Bar is located at 700 Wilmslow Rd, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2DN.
