Hire the Original Rovers Return; Stables Tavern

A Pub Built on Manchester’s History

In May, we opened Stables Tavern in the heart of St John’s, Manchester. Set within the original Rovers Return Inn building on Grape Street, it’s a venue with real character - one we wanted to respect rather than reinvent.

Grape Street has long been part of Manchester’s working story, where pubs played an important role in everyday life, celebrations and social gatherings. Today, Stables Tavern carries that spirit forward as a welcoming pub and private hire venue in Manchester city centre, with spaces designed for everything from casual drinks and team socials to birthday parties, corporate events and exclusive celebrations.

Throughout the restoration, several original features were retained to preserve the character of the building, including the original timber entrance doors and elements of the historic pub frontage. Subtle references to Rovers Return Inn and Coronation Street history were also incorporated throughout the space, helping maintain the building’s identity while adapting it into a modern private hire and events venue in Manchester.

A Local From Day One

Opening week exceeded expectations. Launch night was packed, the first 1,000 free pints went quickly, and the opening weekend drew a great crowd from across Manchester city centre. More than anything it was the atmosphere that stood out - it didn’t feel like a launch, it felt like a local already.

Since then, live music has featured on special occasions, adding to the bigger moments without changing the easygoing feel of the pub.

Private Hire at Stables Tavern

If you’re looking for private hire in Manchester, Stables Tavern offers a setting that feels far more relaxed and characterful than a typical function space.

At the centre of it is The Copper Room, a more intimate part of the pub with a large open fire and a cosy, inviting feel. It works well for smaller gatherings, work socials, birthdays and private celebrations, giving you the atmosphere of a proper pub with the flexibility of a hire space.

For those searching for semi-private hire in Manchester city centre, The Copper Room offers a balance of privacy and character that makes events feel easy and welcoming. Explore private hire at Stables Tavern

Outside, the beer garden is another standout feature. Spacious, slightly tucked away from the street, and ideal for long afternoons that turn into evenings, it’s become a favourite for after-work drinks, weekend meet-ups and laid-back group bookings.

Whether you’re planning a celebration, a team get-together or something more low-key, Stables Tavern gives you a private hire option that still feels like a genuine Manchester pub.

Food and Drink Done Well

At its core, Stables Tavern is about doing the simple things properly.

The food keeps to British pub classics, with an emphasis on quality and care. Our homemade pies are a big part of that - from beef & barley and chicken & leek to a standout vegan root & lentil pie. It’s the kind of comfort food that suits a cosy pub in Manchester, especially alongside a pint. View the full Stables Tavern menu here. Behind the bar, you’ll find a mix of well-loved favourites and rotating local draught beers, keeping things familiar while always offering something new to try. It’s a straightforward but considered line-up, designed for easy visits and longer stays alike.

Come and Make It Yours

Stables Tavern marks an exciting addition to the Shiko Group portfolio, but like any good pub, it’s shaped by the people who spend time in it. If you’re searching for private hire in Manchester or a cosy pub in Manchester city centre with real character, we’d love to welcome you in. Plan your visit to Stables Tavern in Manchester city centre and keep up to date with what’s on.

Come down, grab a pint, meet the team and make Stables Tavern your local 🍻

To find out more about the venue and make an enquiry, visit our official Stables Tavern private hire page here. We’d love to welcome you in.