About us

With the Brewery at the heart of the business, paying homage to the Founders and (nearly) 200 years of history in brewing, Founder’s Hall showcases a vast range of cask ales, craft lagers, traditional brews and small batch Boilerhouse beers.

The food has been carefully crafted to complement the line up on the bar, with something to suit every palate; from bar snacks to home made, hand pressed pies and, of course, the best of JW Lees pub dishes.

Facilities

Beer gardenDisabled facilitiesFamily friendlyFoodReal aleWiFi freeLive musicCask Marque
Pub reviews

Reviews

Chelsea

2 years ago

Absolutely fantastic!! This was the honestly the BEST lasagne we have ever had. You could tell that it was definitely homemade and it was only £13.45!!!! We are from Sheffield and travelled to Manchester for the Christmas markets, so was surprised we managed to book a table! The service was great and the personalised welcome plaque was as a nice touch. We are already planning on going back to Manchester just to come back here for the lasagne!

marie slater

2 years ago

Had Christmas dinner with work colleagues today and the lady who served us smiled throughout the service which was so nice. All the staff who served us were really pleasant again which was great customer service. I think it was the landlord who also checked everything was running smoothly. The room was great and atmosphere Christmassy with Christmas crackers with fab bad jokes! Oh and the plates were warmed … attention to detail … nice!!!!

Mark Evans

2 years ago

Nice place, and warm! Nice to go to after the Christmas Markets and the chips were perfect! Oh and their take on the Baby Guinness was devine!

Stuart Jackson

2 years ago

Been twice for food and drinks recently both times food has been lovely, the staff are welcoming and friendly the place has a great atmosphere

MADDOGLEP

2 years ago

Been a while since Boothroyd visited this bar on Albert Square...opposite the Town Hall..currently a building site but hopefully re-opens in 2024. Always been quite a plush John Willy Lees business. Good covered patio in front. Boothroyd had a pint of bitter. Very good. My better half did not like the lager selection. San Miguel, and a brewery lager by JWL. So she had wine. Do a fair pub food menu, 2 mains for £17.95. Std fare. It's definitely a bar rather than a pub in a good location. Well worth a visit if you like a good bar.

Pub calendar

What's on

 
Events
Events

Jan

23

2026

Tori And Dave - The Ultimate Party
Friday Night Live Music. PLEASE NOTE Our next available Saturday is Feb 14th 2026. We book way in advance, so if you want to secure a date - get in touch now for 2026. Experience the excitement of our high-energy live music duo. With male / female vocals, live keyboards and a huge set list covering all genres. Whether it’s classic hits, modern chart-toppers, or dance-floor favourites, we deliver a non-stop set designed to get you singing, clapping, and dancing along. Our shows are all about connection, fun, and great music — perfect for a night out with friends, a family gathering, or just an excuse to let your hair down. With years of live band experience, we REALLY know how to bring the party and keep the energy high from the first note to the last encore. Themed Shows Songs of ABBA 80’s vs 90’s Christmas Irish Soul/Motown Rock n Roll Country

Jan

24

2026

ATLANTA
Saturday Night DJ. Formerly London-based DJ, now living in Manchester. I take an open-format approach to house music blending predominantly Soulful, Afro and funky house for a fresh yet familiar sound. I bring a unique vibe to every set, from ambient grooves to high-energy club nights. With experience across various London venues, I'm all about creating unforgettable musical experiences.

Jan

30

2026

Shakermaker
Friday Night Live Music. Shakermaker are a charismatic wedding and event band who know how to get your party started! With sharp looks, incredible musicianship and high energy performance, you can be safe in the knowledge that you are getting the finest musical entertainment the industry has to offer for your party. They deliver everything from rock pop indie classics across the ages, guaranteed to keep your dance floor full all night long! They can tailor their set list to suit any event . Shakermaker creates a perfect, uplifting party atmosphere by delivering fantastic sets of rock pop indie dance floor classics

Jan

31

2026

Mr Grant Wallace
Saturday Night DJ. With six years of experience behind the decks, DJ Mr. Grant Wallace is a seasoned maestro of disco and house music. Known for electrifying sets that seamlessly blend timeless classics with contemporary beats, Mr. Grant Wallace has captivated audiences at some of the most prestigious venues and events. From the iconic Glastonbury Festival's BBC Introducing stage to multi-room nightclubs like Trilogy in Bangor, North Wales, and Warrington, as well as vibrant bars chains such as Alberts and Dukes 92, Mr. Grant Wallace consistently delivers unforgettable performances. Sharing the stage with industry heavyweight BBC Radio 1's Danny Howard, Mr. Grant Wallace has solidified a reputation for impeccable track selection and masterful mixing.

Feb

06

2026

Low Key Manchester
Friday Night Live Music. We have been entertaining audiences for over 10 years, with residencies at bars and restaurants, as well as playing 100s of private events. We enjoy bringing the audience on board, inviting them to request songs and sing along.

Feb

07

2026

DJ Adam Y
Saturday Night DJ. Hi, I'm Adam and I'm a music producer and DJ currently based in Manchester, UK. I release music under the alias 'Yeadon' and have had tracks played regularly on BBC Radio 1, Kiss FM and my music has been supported by some of the biggest DJs in the melodic & progressive house genre. The music I produce tends to be a bit more club and dance floor focused. I also DJ in venues across Manchester as ‘DJ Adam Y’ and enjoy playing everything from chilled Electronica, Organic House, Deep House, Melodic House, Afro House, Soulful House and Disco.

Feb

13

2026

Les Visionaires
Friday Night Live Music. Les Visionaires have the luxury of both female and male lead vocals. We can play upbeat and with high energy for hours, but are also capable of keeping it calm and quiet if desired. We're experts at reading the crowd and elevating anyone's mood. A full band sound for the price and footprint of a duo!

Feb

14

2026

DJ Navigate
Saturday Night DJ. DJ Navigate. "Nell's Kampus in Manchester is always highly sought after, especially when they consistently house some incredible DJs, and DJ Navigate is no exception. His infectious energy when he steps behind the sets, as his passion for music is instantly visible whether he's spinning House, Disco or Funk. When DJ Navigate grooves, the whole venue grooves" - Gigpig, 13th September 2024 Navigating a Galore of Genres While Gifting The Grooves. Whether it's House, Disco, 80s, 90s, Funk, Soul, R'n'B or Hip-Hop, good times are always to be had on the dance floor. Growing up in East London, DJ Navigate always had a love for music. Whether it was singing in his primary & secondary school choir, learning to play the violin & xylophone, or eclectic collection of live gigs & festivals, DJ Navigate never shied away from the love of music. His first gig in Manchester, after moving during the pandemic, was alongside SCAPA with a 2-hour set in the Soup Kitchen Basement. This then led to meeting KatBrownSugar down the line and joining the Sweet Vibrations Radio crew with a monthly radio set alongside Manchester's top selectors. Over the past five years, DJ Navigate has played in an array of venues such as Ducie Street Warehouse for the Sweet Vibrations Radio 3-month takeover, The Hip Hop Chip Shop & NAM in Ancoats, Nell’s Pizza - Kampus in Canal Street, FreiMala Secret Garden, Blackdog Ballroom, Wilson’s Social, The Freemount & Nightcap in the Northern Quarter, Brewdog on Peter Street, Lime Bar in Media City and a mix of private events for clients.

Feb

20

2026

Soul Sync Duo
Friday Night Live Music. Soul Sync is a dynamic duo that radiates positive energy, blending soulful melodies that make your heart sing along! Committed to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere through their music. With a diverse setlist that spans from the 60s to today’s hits, they enhance any gathering with heartfelt performances. Based in Manchester, Soul Sync has enjoyed playing at various venues, bringing a relaxed vibe to every event. Their goal is to set the mood and create memorable experiences for audiences, making them a perfect choice for your next occasion.

Feb

21

2026

Krioso
Saturday Night DJ. Multi-genre DJ and producer with a deep love for house music and its many subgenres, including Afro, Latin sounds, downtempo, electronica, disco, funk, and more. Always sharing fresh gems and keeping the music exciting for everyone.

Feb

27

2026

KeyPad (Duo) - Kieron Smith & Patrick
Friday Night Live Music. Two piece duo performing all popular covers consisting of Vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, piano and backing beat.

Feb

28

2026

Kate Meyher
Saturday Night DJ. Rapidly rising up the ranks of the UKs LGBTQ+ electronic dance music scene, Kate hosts rap shows on Gaydio and Select Radio. She's played at festivals and club nights up and down the UK alongside the likes of Fat Tony, Gok Wan, DJ Paulette, Jodie Harsh and nanny more. Kate loves to spin a rather groovy mix of deep, house, funk, disco and tech, selecting choicely cuts that will make you gyrate your hips and scrunch your face in appreciation. Since joining Toolroom Academy in 2022, Kate has released several tracks with Curious Energy Records, Happy Sounds, LOVEZOO and MixCity. She’s had airplay on BBC Introducing, Gorgeous Radio, Gaydio, Centreforce Radio and more. Growing up with an eclectic taste in music and wide array of influences, Kate's discography is as diverse as the community she represents.

Apr

25

2025

Here Every Weekend
(expired). Friday Night Live Music THE PERFECT BAND FOR YOUR EVENT Electrify live band renowned for playing the hottest songs from the past few decades! 🎶 Here Every Weekend is a dynamic & versatile covers band that specialises in providing electrifying live music performances in front of large audiences be it for weddings, corporate events or bustling bars. Formed in 2022 after spending years performing with a number of other groups across the UK; Here Every Weekend quickly made a name for themselves on the Manchester music scene performing their expertly crafted covers of popular songs from the rock and pop spheres at Summer festivals. ----------- Available as a full band setup or chilled out acoustic + sample pad/cajon; ready to make your event PERFECT ❤️ We have: Our own P.A system & gear ✅ The ability to travel ✅ A love of playing live music ✅🤘

Apr

26

2025

Nick shaw
(expired). Saturday Night DJ I've been djing for over 20 Years, mostly in bars in Manchester, Leeds, Chester snd alderley edge. I've been a resident at the living Room and panacea and played regular gigs at many others. I've also played at escape to freight island a number of times.

May

02

2025

The Shindigs
(expired). Friday Night Live Music Professional band for all your party needs - Weddings, Parties and Events. We play hits ranging from the 70's right the way to present day favourites. Genres include: Rock, Pop, Britpop, Punk Rock and Indie. Contact us now to enquire about how we can make your event go off with a bang!

May

03

2025

Mr Grant Wallace
(expired). Saturday Night DJ With six years of experience behind the decks, DJ Mr. Grant Wallace is a seasoned maestro of disco and house music. Known for electrifying sets that seamlessly blend timeless classics with contemporary beats, Mr. Grant Wallace has captivated audiences at some of the most prestigious venues and events. From the iconic Glastonbury Festival's BBC Introducing stage to multi-room nightclubs like Trilogy in Bangor, North Wales, and Warrington, as well as vibrant bars chains such as Alberts and Dukes 92, Mr. Grant Wallace consistently delivers unforgettable performances. Sharing the stage with industry heavyweight BBC Radio 1's Danny Howard, Mr. Grant Wallace has solidified a reputation for impeccable track selection and masterful mixing.

May

09

2025

Back to Britpop
(expired). Friday Night Live Music Back to Britpop are the authentic 1990s Britpop experience: We take you Back to Britpop, because we were there: We were there for Oasis at Knebworth in 1996, Radiohead at Glastonbury in 1997, and the Stone Roses comeback tour in 1995. Blur, Suede, Pulp, Ash, The Verve, The Charlatans, The Bluetones, Gene, even Dodgy – we saw them all, at the height of their powers. Now we’ve bottled the essence of Britpop to bring to your pub, wedding or special event. Let us take you Back to Britpop!

May

10

2025

DJ Adam Y
(expired). Saturday Night DJ Hi, I'm Adam and I'm a music producer and DJ currently based in Manchester, UK. I release music under the alias 'Yeadon' and have had tracks played regularly on BBC Radio 1, Kiss FM and my music has been supported by some of the biggest DJs in the melodic & progressive house genre. The music I produce tends to be a bit more club and dance floor focused. I also DJ in venues across Manchester as ‘DJ Adam Y’ and enjoy playing everything from chilled Electronica, Organic House, Deep House, Melodic House, Afro House, Soulful House and Disco.

May

16

2025

The Legacy
(expired). Friday Night Live Music Fresh from recording at the BBC in Media City dock house studios (Please see the samples below) as part of Summer sounds of the city. We are The Legacy and we are a uptempo/ upbeat, hi octane, party anthems band! The main musical influences come from Manchester bands such as the Stone roses, Joy division/ New Order, Oasis, The Courteeners to name but a few. We love performing a wide range of hits, party anthems and floor fillers ranging from classic 60's, 70's, 80's and 90's rock and roll feelgood party anthems. This ranges right up to present day modern music. The main genres we focus on are Indie, Rock and roll, R&B and Dance music. Our very talented musicians are flexible and adaptable - We have our own Instruments/ gear/ rig/ and PA at our disposal to use as and when which is all fully PAT tested. We can take requested songs in advance of gigs and are seasoned performers at Festivals and shows throughout the UK and Europe. Part of our set list includes fantastic music by the following bands and artists: Oasis The Killers The Courteeners Joy Divison The Kings of Leon Sam Fender Pharrell Williams/Daft Punk Foo Fighters Fat Boy Slim Stone Roses Shed 7 T-Rex The Verve Jimi Hendrix The Clash The Kinks Thin Lizzy James Bad Company And many more .... https://m.youtube.com/@TheLegacy-Band Youtube the Legacy278 - Instagram https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Legacy-61556759913047/ [email protected]

May

17

2025

Jack Clark
(expired). Saturday Night DJ Being behind the decks for over 10 years, Jack Clark constantly reaches new heights Bringing professionalism and unparalleled vibes creating the right atmosphere in any occasion he steps in. Using his passion for music and knowledge for reading room, he as had held regular club gigs in bars and restaurants in and around Manchester in prestigious venues such as Dukes 92, Lowry Hotel and Piccolinos. With a strong ability to bring any venue alive creating a night to remember, Jack also performs exceptionally well adding the right tone to compliment a more relaxed environment. With various achievements under his belt including competition success winning sets at clubs and festivals such and Bugged Out Weekender and Glastonbury, Jack is the ideal DJ for any business looking to soundtrack their venue and bring life into the room.

May

23

2025

The Ultimate Party Band UK
(expired). Friday Night Live Music 🚢 As seen on Royal Caribbean Cruises ⭐️ UK Top Wedding & Corporate Event Band 🌍 Available for bookings worldwide 🔊 700+ songs tailorable to you 🎸 Function Band 🕺 80’s Show 🎤 Bandeoke 🎸 Acoustic Duo 👕 Band merch 🛜 www.theultimatepartybanduk.co.uk

May

24

2025

Sarah Bates
(expired). Saturday Night DJ Manchester synth queen Sarah Bates hooks audiences with her analog-only hardware sets. Over the past decade, she has performed at renowned venues like Printworks London and toured Taiwan with Australian producer Freekwency. As a solo artist, Sarah has brought her signature sound to festivals like Gottwood and Manchester International Festival, resulting in releases on labels like Bannoffee Pies Records and 2020 Vision for the Crazy P Curate Series. Her DJ sets traverse electro, hip hop, street soul, Italo disco, balearic, synth pop, and proto house. Tune in to her radio shows on Refuge Worldwide, NTS and Reform Radio to hear Sarah's latest musical explorations.

May

30

2025

Shakermaker
(expired). Friday Night Live Music Shakermaker are a charismatic wedding and event band who know how to get your party started! With sharp looks, incredible musicianship and high energy performance, you can be safe in the knowledge that you are getting the finest musical entertainment the industry has to offer for your party. They deliver everything from rock pop indie classics across the ages, guaranteed to keep your dance floor full all night long! They can tailor their set list to suit any event . Shakermaker creates a perfect, uplifting party atmosphere by delivering fantastic sets of rock pop indie dance floor classics

May

31

2025

Emma Ellis
(expired). Saturday Night DJ Emma is currently a resident DJ at world renown The Ivy in Manchester. She won DJ of The Season for a World-wide DJ Agency. Emma is an incredible entertainer and has performed all over the world, including Ibiza, Holland, Budapest and LA and is the only DJ ever to have DJed on the infamous Orient Express! Previous clients include Drake & Morgan, Chester Race Course, IWM, and many more. Emma is a professionally trained DJ and percussionist, and specialises in playing the best of upbeat House Music, but she also loves to DJ a mixture of Disco, Chart, Club Classics and RnB to get any dance floor pumping. Emma excels at bringing the right atmosphere to any venue, and getting the dance floor moving to give you the best night whatever the occasion or event. She is also a presenter for her regular show on Ibiza Club News Radio and is the founder of Our House Your House, a mental health and music initiative. 

Jun

06

2025

The Rock 'n' Soulers
(expired). Friday Night Live Music The Rock 'n' Soulers are an epic covers band committed to providing high-energy, electric performances every single night. You can expect to see everybody on the dance floor as we blast the classics. From Indie to britpop, 60s-00s, we have it covered. With great musicians, a full professional PA-system and lighting rig, we provide the full gig experience for your special occasion or venue. The Rock 'n' Soulers are The covers band for music fans. A Manchester based events & wedding band that pride ourselves on playing the coolest songs from the best in music. We have performed and gigged extensively within the events & hospitality industry and often play live in several of Manchester’s bars including: Bunny Jackson’s, HATCH, Peaky Blinders & Revolution De Cuba and as individuals, we play and have played for many different touring bands, appearing at festivals and gigs around the world. With over 15 years of professional live music experience, we know how to provide your party with flawless performances with energetic delivery. Our classic 4-piece line-up is provided with a free DJ service and will provide a memorable gig experience to any event. In addition, we have unplugged options for your chilled events, afternoon sessions and drinks receptions.

Jun

07

2025

DJ Skadz
(expired). Saturday Night DJ I go by Skadzy Soprano (known to many as DJ Skadz). I'm an international multi genre DJ & host from Manchester. Always had a passion for music. Started djing in uni shutting down house, flat & university parties. I've played up and down the country in many cities. As well as internationally in places such Ayia Napa, America, Tenerife & Bulgaria. I have also supported many acts during my time such as Mo Gillingham, J Hus, Unknown T, Afro B, Mr Eazi and many more.

Jun

13

2025

The Vinyls
(expired). Friday Night Live Music “We are The Vinyls” - a four-piece indie/rock and roll covers band from Merseyside. Started by Keith Smith in Bromborough, Wirral, in 2010, the band have steadily built up a dedicated and noisy following since that time playing pubs, clubs, events and festivals across the North West of England. Sticking resolutely to their own path, the Mod-style combo has been adopted by a number of Scooter clubs in Liverpool, Wirral and Chester - they supported The Beat at this year's Big 7 National Scooter Rally in Kent and headlined the annual charity 'March of the Mods' day in Liverpool in 2023. They are regulars in Liverpool city centre and mix razor-sharp hits from the past - the Who, the Jam, the Kinks and the Beatles and the Stones - with some of the finest indie-rock and pop anthems of the last 25 years (Oasis, Arctic Monkeys, Stereophonics, Courteeners etc.) They are friendly, flexible, professional and simply one of the very best around.

Jun

14

2025

Nick shaw
(expired). Saturday Night DJ I've been djing for over 20 Years, mostly in bars in Manchester, Leeds, Chester snd alderley edge. I've been a resident at the living Room and panacea and played regular gigs at many others. I've also played at escape to freight island a number of times.

Jun

20

2025

KeyPad (4 Piece Band)
(expired). Friday Night Live Music Solo, Duo, Trio and 4 piece band performing popular covers.

Jun

21

2025

Mr Grant Wallace
(expired). Saturday Night DJ With six years of experience behind the decks, DJ Mr. Grant Wallace is a seasoned maestro of disco and house music. Known for electrifying sets that seamlessly blend timeless classics with contemporary beats, Mr. Grant Wallace has captivated audiences at some of the most prestigious venues and events. From the iconic Glastonbury Festival's BBC Introducing stage to multi-room nightclubs like Trilogy in Bangor, North Wales, and Warrington, as well as vibrant bars chains such as Alberts and Dukes 92, Mr. Grant Wallace consistently delivers unforgettable performances. Sharing the stage with industry heavyweight BBC Radio 1's Danny Howard, Mr. Grant Wallace has solidified a reputation for impeccable track selection and masterful mixing.

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