Fred's Ale House

Lying at the heart of Levenshulme's busy centre, Fred's describes itself as part-bar, part-coffee shop and art gallery. It is set over three floors and has facilities to show short films from local film-makers and an artwork display area. Neat yet narrow interior with a stylish bar set to left side, its size dictates that this is mostly for stand-up drinking on the ground floor apart from some seats at front and rear. The somewhat spartan looking basement is a large drinking area-cum art gallery space, there is a big TV screen for showing short films and live sport. It can accommodate live gigs and acoustic acts too. Meanwhile the upstairs lounge exudes far more warmth and intimacy with its comfortable leather sofas and mood music. A few strides away from this is a walled roof terrace giving good views to the back of the property. A smart space at the front featuring lovely tilework allows outdoor drinking with a degree of shelter; there is an outside smoking area to the rear as well. Initially serving a selection of coffees and hot drinks, it will later have a small food offering. They are hoping to develop their own cask beer range in an arrangement with a small micro-brewery to supply the small chain of Levenshulme Pub Co independent bars. Malay street food is available upstairs 5-10 Thu-Fri; 3-10 Sat-Sun, this is provided by Secret Diner Levy. There's a music quiz every Monday, and a live event once a month. Cask ale is a mere £2 a pint on Thursdays from 6pm.