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Top 5 Quirky and Unusual Dates in Manchester

Whether you’re looking to impress with your local knowledge prowess, or just fancy trying something new yourself - feel the sparks fly and make this date one to remember!

A group of people stands inside a colorful, glass-walled room located in a dark, industrial tunnel. The room is illuminated with vibrant neon lights, and the figures inside appear to be engaged in some interactive activity, with three facing away from the camera.
Image © Facebook via @electricgamebox

The Savoy Cinema, Heaton Moor

A row of plush movie theater seats, each draped with velvet fabric and adorned with red throw pillows. Small, white, basket-like containers are placed on the armrests of each seat, ready to hold snacks or drinks for theatergoers.
Image © Instagram via @savoycinemaheaton

105 Heaton Moor Road, Heaton Moor, Stockport SK4 4HY 

This beautiful boutique cinema, which originally opened in 1923, is one of Manchester’s best kept secrets. One of the city's few independently run cinemas, you can enjoy your film from luxury seating, of if you’re feeling really fancy, your own private sofa. Screenings vary from the latest blockbusters to classic golden oldies and even live streamed performances from around the country (National Theatre Live), ensuring there's something for everyone. They also offer a yearly membership and gift vouchers, so there are plenty of ways to impress that special someone at this spectacular cinema. Tickets start from £7.00 and accessible seats are available. For more information click here.  

The Washhouse

A neon sign in bright pink lights reads DIRTY LAUNDRY ONLY with an arrow pointing to the right. The sign is mounted on a dark brick wall. To the left is a washing machine partially visible under pink lighting.
Image © Facebook via @washhousemcr

19 Shudehill, Manchester, M4 2AF 

Talking of secrets, what about a secret, hidden bar? At a first glance, The Washhouse appears to be a simple laundrette, but watch your dates face turn from confused to amazed as you pick up the phone and lead them straight through the door of a washing machine and down into a speakeasy. Reservations are mandatory, but its extensive cocktail list is worth every penny. I can’t tell you much more, it’s best experienced when shrouded in mystery, but I can promise you one thing - you’ll never have this much fun doing your washing again. To book your spot click here. 

Cloud 23

A selection of five colorful cocktails arranged on a reflective surface, with a backdrop of modern high-rise buildings seen through large windows. The drinks are garnished with various fruits and herbs, each served in a distinctive glass.
Image © Facebook via @Cloud23Bar

Beetham Tower, 303 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4LQ 

For something a little bit more sophisticated head to Cloud 23 for a view like no other. On the 23rd floor of Beetham Tower, the entire experience is designed to make you feel spoiled, from the private lift to the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, everything ties together to create one of the most romantic date night locations in Manchester. It’s also one of Manchester’s top LGBTQ+ destinations and their cocktail menu is a showstopper, with ten specially designed cocktails inspired by cities around the world, as well as a number inspired by some of Manchester’s icons, such as the Ena Sparkles. It’s sure to be a fun date night you’ll never forget. 

Axe Throwing at Whistle Punks

Two people are at an axe-throwing venue with wooden targets in the background. Both are wearing casual attire; the person on the left is holding an axe and smiling, while the person on the right is preparing to throw an axe, also smiling. The venue has #WHISTLEPUNKS on the wall.
Image © Facebook via @whistlepunksmanchester

Great Northern Warehouse, Unit 20, Atrium Level, 235 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4EN 

Looking for something a little bit different? Or just got a hatchet to bury? Then Whistle Punks is the place for you! Get ready to unleash your inner Viking as you go head to head in a battle of strength, accuracy and just sheer luck. There’s also drinks available to calm your post axe-throwing adrenaline rush, Whistle Punks is definitely one of our more quirky date night options in Manchester.  

Immersive Gamebox

A group of four people wearing headsets with antennas stands inside a room illuminated by vibrant, neon colors and holographic projections. They interact with the futuristic visuals, which depict a digital landscape with floating shapes and structures.
Image © Facebook via @electricgamebox

Manchester Arndale, Unit R3 Halle Place, Market Street, Manchester, M4 3AQ 

Need a quirky date night idea that’s both fun and breaks the ice? Look no further than Immersive Gamebox. A self proclaimed immersive digital experience there’s plenty of interactive games to choose from. Equipped with projection mapping, touch screens, motion tracking and surround sound, it’s time to get lost not only in this virtual realm but also on your date. Sessions are completely private accommodating parties from 2- 6 people Immersive Gamebox has really put a twists on game’s night.