The Refuge

Inside the historic Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, The Refuge combines stunning Victorian architecture with a vibrant, modern soul. It’s a space that’s become synonymous with Manchester’s hospitality, glamorous but never pretentious, open to everyone and rooted in community.

Created by DJs Luke Cowdrey and Justin Crawford, The Refuge has been at the heart of LGBTQ+ celebrations since it opened. During Manchester Pride, it’s home to the legendary Come As You Are Weekender, a joyful three day party of live music, DJs, drag performances and dancing under the glittering glass atrium. Throughout the year, it hosts queer art shows, charity fundraisers and inclusive brunches that bring people together from across the city.

The Refuge’s dining room serves globally inspired dishes, from sharing plates like salt cod fritters to hearty roasts and colourful vegetarian options, while the Public Bar is ideal for a relaxed pint or a cocktail before heading into town. The courtyard and Winter Garden provide quieter corners to chat, and the atmosphere always feels warm, even in the grandeur of the space.

It’s this mix of style and soul that makes The Refuge special. Whether you’re there for brunch, a Pride event or a quiet coffee, it captures the essence of Manchester, bold, diverse and unashamedly inclusive.