Harley Young reflects on one year of sobriety and shares some great places to spend Dry Jan and beyond
I’ve been sober for a year now.
13-and-a-half months, if we’re getting technical about it.
It’s something that I thought would be a monstrous challenge, considering what I do for a living. In this job, you’re often plied with alcohol the moment you walk through the door of any event or new opening.
As soon as you’re through that fancy balloon arch, glittery awning, A-board adorned entrance (or combination of all three), there’s a table of champagne flutes lined up like a fizzy battalion ready to tackle an onslaught of media, press and influencers - their challenge being to make everyone in the room so sozzled that everything posted online the following day is simply captioned ‘soooo amazing’ as nobody had the foggiest of what they actually ate or what it tasted like.
Don’t get me wrong - everyone loves to cut loose every once in a while, but when Thursday becomes the new Friday, Wednesday becomes the new Thursday, Tuesday the new Wednesday and so on, before long, you find yourself six glasses deep on a Monday afternoon.
Now, I’m not saying everyone who has a drink at an event on Monday should be shunned, ashamed of themselves and self-flagellate immediately. If you enjoy it and that’s what works for you and your lifestyle then amazing. I’m happy for you.
For me though, it felt like I was burning the candle at both ends. I was putting both my mind and body through its paces with late nights and early mornings, tackling an extremely busy, constantly-moving, ever-changing work life that required me to be present and on the ball. Day in, day out, rinse and repeat.
If you’ve read this far, you’re probably thinking ‘God, Harley. You sound like an absolute bore. Moaning about having drinks thrust at you? You must be soooo much fun at parties.’, but the irony is I’m actually far more outgoing and free-willed now than I ever was with a drink in my hand.
Like most socially-awkward twenty-somethings, I used having a drink in hand as a bit of a ‘crutch’, so to speak. I wouldn’t be the first to raise my hand at a seminar, at networking events I’d lurk in a corner until approached, and under absolutely no circumstances would you find me on the dancefloor (that part’s still kind of true).
But by removing said crutch, and still muddling my way through such an extroverted yet incredibly rewarding job, I was forced to be more outgoing and develop a suck-it-and-see approach to life.
In November 2023, after one too many hangxiety-riddled weekday mornings, I decided to give up the ghost and instead catapulted myself into uncomfortable situations head first: attending networking events solo; going to the gym alone and trying those scary machines I’d never even given a second glance; taking on a promotion at work; delivering a careers talk to a room full of students looking to get into the industry - all without an alcoholic drink, my ‘crutch’, in hand.
Over the past year of navigating a social life without alcohol, I’ve realised just how many incredible, fun and funky places and things there are to do in the North West without needing to touch a drop of booze (if you don’t want to). Here are just some of my personal favourites.
Top spots for sober socialising
16-20 Turner Street, Manchester M4 1DZ
Located in the basement of Manchester’s Buddhist Centre, sober bar Hinterland creates a ‘new way to socialise’ by providing a space to foster friendships in a cosy, comfortable bar setting without the need for, or temptation of, alcohol.
The team are incredibly lovely and are able to create a plethora of top-class alcohol-free cocktails from ingredients that are sustainably and ethically sourced. If alcohol substitutes aren’t your bag, there’s also coffee, teas and a range of snacks available.
Read this conversation I had with Co-Founder Stephen Jeffreys earlier this year about his battle with addiction and the idea behind having a sober space in the Northern Quarter.
Space Studio: Pottery Painting & Art Space
45 Henry Street, Ancoats, Manchester M4 5DQ
Set in a bright and airy studio just off Cutting Room Square, Space Studio is a place to get creative and be mindful. Visitors simply pay for the price of the pot(s) they choose and the rest of the session is all in with the cost. You can even bring your own snacks and drinks.
Designed with adults in mind, it’s a budget-friendly option to visit solo or with friends. There’s plenty of space to let your creative juices flow and make something beautiful.
Liverpool ONE, Liverpool L1 3DF
Packed with adrenaline-fuelled fun spanning over two levels, Gravity MAX is Liverpool’s biggest multi-entertainment venue with everything from crazy golf and EKarting to digital darts, bowling and batting cages.
There’s also a huge arcade and a number of popular food vendors to choose from.
Restaurant Örme, 218 Church Road, Urmston, Manchester
Something of a suburban crown jewel, Örme truly is a special little place that’s as welcoming as it is appetizing. Small but mighty, this intimate restaurant provides a casual feel whilst knocking out affordable fine dining fancies that are worthy of a Michelin star. They have a range of non-alcoholic drinks available, including beers, wines and fizzes.
Plus, they’ve recently launched a Sunday dinner menu that absolutely blew my socks off. Give it a go, you won’t be disappointed.
6-10 Hanover Street, Manchester M4 4BB
A free-to-attend ‘Hobby House’ slap bang in the city centre (just a stone’s throw away from Victoria station), Altogether Otherwise is a place to pick up a new interest without any expectations. It’s ok to be bad at stuff. Just come along, take part and enjoy.
The DIY studio space and garden was instigated as part of the NOMA neighbourhood last year and has continued to thrive ever since, with visitors and hobbyists being encouraged to set up their own clubs. It’s a wholesome place that provides plenty of those warm, fuzzy feelings without any cost. Join in, the change will do you good - see their existing clubs here.
33 Back Piccadilly, Manchester M1 1HP
A bit of an outlier on this list considering its a modern take on a traditional pub, but I couldn’t not give a shout out to the quality little music venue on the top floor. My partner and I have seen some cracking bands here (see 'Dead Stilettos' above) for free - it’s the kind of place trendy artists play before they blow up. And what with its classic jukebox and tastefully-decorated quirky rooms, it’s somewhere you can warm up and shelter away from a rainy afternoon with a 0% pilsner.
Prescot L34 4AN
As an animal lover, there’s nothing I love more than a trip to Knowsley’s huge safari park. With entry to the park, you’re free to go around the five-mile safari drive and foot safari as many times you want.
If you don’t want to risk having your vehicle damaged by some real-life cheeky monkeys, hop on the baboon bus (£6) and skip the car calamities. It’s a great day out for the whole family to enjoy.
Pier 8, The Quays, Salford M50 3AZ
If you fancy sailing up and down Manchester’s historic River Irwell and learning more about the role this waterway played during the industrial revolution, give a Manchester River Cruise a go. On dry days, you can even sit atop the roof deck and take in all the spectacular views - yep, even Gnome Island.
They also host special live music events including tributes to Elvis, Adele, The Rack Pack and more. See their upcoming events here.
52 Church Street, Manchester M4 1PW
A Manchester institution, Afflecks offers floor after floor of independent retailers selling everything from one-of-a-kind artworks to vintage and alternative clothing, to trinkets and treasures galore.
I can spend (and have spent) literal hours exploring this place. Every time I go back, there’s something new and exciting that catches my eye.
Cains Brewery, Stanhope Street, Liverpool L8 5XJ
Crazy golf just got crazier. This neon cathedral of graffiti has plenty of photo opportunities at every hole, including some that are - ahem - naughtier than others.
Mocktails, softs and 0% beers are available but be warned, this is an adults-only golfing venue so drinks will be flowing - especially on weekends when it tends to get a little more rambunctious. However, there’s still so much fun to be had here without it!
Skof, 3 Hanover Street, Federation St, Manchester M4 4BF
If you’re looking for a restaurant where the food speaks for itself, Tom Barnes’ new Hanover Street establishment Skof is a laid back approach to meticulously crafted fine dining dishes. Whether you’re interested in the lunch menu or going the whole hog with a whopping 16 courses, Skof’s a place that just keeps impressing, dish after dish.
There’s some strong contenders when it comes to mind-blowing mocktails - each of which are made with botanicals and cordials picked fresh and created from herbs and fruits grown at Our Farm over in Cumbria.
Sportcity Way, Manchester, UK
Be immersed in sound without any distractions at Manchester’s newest purpose-built arena. Designed around the experience of live entertainment and that alone, this 23,000-capacity venue has been host to some of the world’s biggest artists already and has only been open just over half a year.
As well as incredible music acts, you can enjoy live sporting events, theatrical performances and stand-up comedy.
Hope Street Hotel, Hope Street, Liverpool, UK
Relax and unwind in a spa that has been mentioned in The Times Travel ’30 Spectacular Spa Breaks’. With its indoor-outdoor heated pool, steam room and sauna, plus many other state-of-the-art spa elements, Hope Street Hotel Spa is a place to leave your worries at the door and switch off completely for a while.
You can also book in for a range of treatments including facials and massages. Read my review of Hope Street Hotel and its spa here.
88 Oldham Street, Manchester M4 1LF
This Insta-friendly dessert cafe is known for its towering ice creams, gelato, sweet bakes, pancakes and ginormous milkshakes and sundaes. My go-to drink to order is their pistachio iced latte made with their very own Sicilian pistachio cream, available to buy by the jar if you just can’t get enough.
5 Bank Street, Rawtenstall, Rossendale BB4 6QS
Known as Britain’s last temperance bar, Mr Fitzpatrick’s is a homely spot with a menu of feel-good comforts like hot chocolate, sundaes and Lancashire cheese pies. The main attraction though is their range of cordials and tonics made from traditional Victorian recipes; from blood orange to sarsaparilla to dandelion and burdock, these vintage softs are a great choice if you’re looking to try something different from a 0% ABV beverage.
Read my interview with bar owner Ashley Morley here.
Smithfield Market Hall, 1 Eagle Street, Manchester M4 5BU
Located in an 1858 Grade II listed market building on the edge of the Northern Quarter, this foodhall comes from the same team behind the award-winning Altrincham Market and offers an eclectic mix of food and drink.
Drinks hatch Jack in the Box offers a great selection of non-alcoholic beers and ciders while food vendors like Taiko by New Wave Ramen is a must-try.
Great Northern Warehouse, Deansgate, Manchester M3 4EN
One of the only places in Manchester you can (legally) lob an axe at a wall and not get shouted at, Whistle Punks is a great laugh for competitive friends and couples alike.
Don’t worry if you have no prior axe-throwing experience - I doubt many people do, to be honest - as the team of experts are on hand to guide you through the best methods of slinging your hunks of sharp metal. Think darts, but a bit more dangerous and exciting.
14 Brazennose St, Manchester M2 6LW / 91 Bold Street, Liverpool L1 4HF
Born from experiences of the vibrant district of Le Marais, Paris, Maray serves food and drink inspired by the flavours of the Middle East. Sustainability is important to this restaurant, with high-quality small plates being the order of the day (perfect for social dining and mix-and-matching). There’s a large amount of veggie options available as well as mezze and meats.
Later this month, Maray are teaming up with Lucky Saint, the official beer of Dry January, for two pairing dinners which will see a tasting of five alcohol-free drinks matched with fantastic flavours of the Middle East. The events are priced at £45pp each and will take place in Manchester on 15 January and Liverpool on 16 January.
Tickets are super limited - click here to find out more.
There’s also a growing number of dedicated sober nights out in the city, as well as bars and restaurants across Manchester that have a wide variety of non-alcoholic options if you’re looking to dip your toe into the sober lifestyle this January.
Likewise, we all know January can be tight on the old pursestrings, so if you’re looking to stay in this month and reserve cash whilst enjoying a non-alcoholic drink from the comfort of your own home, check out my guide to the Best Alcohol-Free Drinks in 2025.
It’s always worth remembering, if you or a friend are looking to make changes to your relationship with alcohol and think professional help and advice could be beneficial, dedicated services are available.
- Change Grow Live, Manchester
Operates from three hubs across the city, allowing you to get the support you need wherever you are in Manchester. Trained professionals will support your goals to reduce your alcohol use to improve your well-being. Support is tailored to your needs through one-to-one and group sessions and includes detox and rehab programmes.
- withyou, Liverpool
Services across Liverpool, with offices in the centre, north and south of the city. Their teams also go out into the local community, so regardless of where you live, you can access the support you need.
I wish you all a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.
Get the latest news to your inbox
Get the latest food & drink news and exclusive offers by email by signing up to our mailing list. This is one of the ways that Confidentials remains free to our readers and by signing up you help support our high quality, impartial and knowledgable writers. Thank you!
Join our WhatsApp group
You can also get regular updates on news, exclusives and offers by joining the Manchester Confidential WhatsApp group.
