A visitor’s guide to misleading names and places in Manchester

Heard the one about the person who complained to trading standards because you can’t get your clothes washed at The Washhouse?

In case you didn’t know, The Washhouse is a bar on Shudehill. It’s called The Washhouse and when you get there you could be forgiven for thinking that it’s a washhouse. But appearances can be deceptive. It’s not a washhouse. It’s a bar.

The Washhouse is just one of a number places in Manchester which aren’t what their names suggest.

So for the benefit of visitors to Manchester who aren’t familiar with our fair city, here’s a quick guide to places whose names could be considered to be misleading. But please don’t go complaining to trading standards.

The Washhouse

It’s not. It’s a secret bar in Shudehill disguised as a washhouse. And it’s recently had a visit from Trading Standards because people have turned up with bags of dirty washing…

The Laundrette

It’s not. It’s a bar restaurant on First Street owned by the Washhouse people. They must have a thing about laundry.

Refinery

It’s not. It’s a cocktail bar in Spinningfields.

Gasworks

A craft beer bar on First Street.

Menagerie

It’s not. It’s a rather swish nightclub, restaurant and bar at New Bailey.

Deaf Institute

It’s not. It’s a cafe, bar and indie music venue off Oxford Road.

Garage

It’s not. It’s a car-themed pop-up bar on Bridge Street.

The Refuge

It’s not. It’s a bar/restaurant on Oxford Road.

The Pasta Factory

It’s not. It’s a pasta restaurant. (But they do make their own pasta).

Albert’s Shed

It’s not. It’s a restaurant and bar in Castlefield.

Yard and Coop

It’s not. It’s a Northern Quarter chicken restaurant.

The Printworks

It’s not – but it used to be. Lots of places to eat and drink.

Corn Exchange

As above.

And while we’re on the subject of misleading names…

Selfridges

They don’t.

Jamie’s Italian

He’s not. He’s a cockney.

PS If you’re looking for a launderette in Manchester city centre try The NQ Launderette on Hilton Street. But be warned. They don’t serve cocktails manchesterlaunderette.co.uk