CityLife

Big Hands

Big Hands
Oxford Road
March 2011

(Bar review)

Overall: 3/5

Big Hands is one of those rare bars whose state of disrepair is largely accepted to be part of its unique charm.

The retro seats are ripped, the walls graffitied and the toilets leave something to be desired, but if you are looking for a truly Mancunian rock ‘n’ roll drinking experience, there really is no competition.

Besides, the kind of people who have discovered this little drinking hole are quick to forgive its aesthetics for the love of its loud indie music, live nights and DJs, wide selection of European bottled beers, grungy decor and the likeliness of sighting some of their rock star heroes.

Situated down the road from Manchester Academy venues, it is a popular pit stop for pre- and post-gig drinks, for both fans and touring bands.

On the bus route from student-centric Fallowfield to the University of Manchester student union, it also capitalises on the steady flow of students with good coffee and sandwiches in the day and an upbeat vibe by night.

Atmosphere wins inside. It is a long, thin venue with a cluttered bar lining one side and eclectic seating on the other, which always fills up quickly at peak times.

Aspiring groupies and musos have plenty of eye candy, with gig posters covering the walls and scribblings of MySpace sites etched into the toilet doors.

Drinks are on the pricey side with its range of continental beers, such as Duval, Leffe, and Cusqueña, setting you back around £3.50.

296 Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9NS.

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