Old English styled yet determinedly celebrating current grassroots musicians, The Peer Hat is one of the most active music venues in the city, with live music options downstairs nearly every night of the week. This varies from local bands and performances to DJ sets and live panels.

It’s even hosted an innovative series of ‘Manchester Meltdown’ gigs, curated by local legend Ian ‘Moet’ Moss, and also the ‘Manchester Meltdown Summer All Day Special’. As well as an experimental electronic music all-dayer coming up, The Peer Hat is also home to the Heart of Glass clubnight and this year will host the two-day Foundations Festival https://www.visitmanchester.com/whats-on/foundations-p384251  in December, which will also involve the HAUNT Manchester network ‘Black Christmas’.

On the ground level there is a bustling bar with plenty of friendly faces and a rustic, relaxed vibe – with wooden tables, drapes and even a comfy sofa. Forget pretentious venues and overpriced entries, The Peer Hat stands out for its warmth and accessibility. Much of that is thanks to the hard-working team behind it, with Nick Alexander the co-founder of the venue. HAUNT Manchester spoke to him to find out more…