Soapy J is a uniquely charming bar located in Manchester, UK, renowned for its distinctive decor and vibrant atmosphere. This bar offers a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails, along with regular live music and cultural events, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. As a cultural hub in Northern England, Manchester boasts a rich history in music and the arts, and Soapy J encapsulates the city’s dynamic nightlife. The bar’s interior blends retro and modern elements, creating a relaxed yet stylish vibe. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a craft beer or experience live music, Soapy J is a must-visit destination.






Everything you need to know about Soapy J
SoapyJ hotel is centrally located in Manchester with many great dining and sightseeing options nearby.
Dining Recommendations:
Attractions:
The hotel's prime location allows easy walking access to major attractions.
Top hotel picks near Soapy J in Manchester's vibrant Northern Quarter:
• Motel One Manchester (3-star): Budget-friendly with chic design, 6-minute walk • Roomzzz Aparthotel (4-star): Kitchenette suites ideal for longer stays • The Edwardian Manchester (5-star): Luxury option with spa, 12 min walk
Pro tip: Stay in Northern Quarter to immerse in Manchester's creative scene - surrounded by street art, vinyl record shops, and the legendary Affleck's Palace marketplace. All recommended hotels provide easy access to trams and trains.
Soapy J is in Manchester's Northern Quarter, surrounded by hotels converted from industrial buildings. The Clayton Hotel is a 5-minute walk away, featuring rooms with exposed brick walls and a rooftop bar with city views. For artsy vibes, Motel One showcases local artwork in its lobby and is steps from Stevenson Square's clubs.
Budget travelers can try Hatters Hostel, with shared kitchens and social spaces ideal for meeting people. Note that weekend rates rise about 30%, so book early. Parking is limited—consider public transport as the area has excellent tram links.
Soapy J is located in the heart of Manchester, with several budget-friendly hotel options nearby. Premier Inn Manchester Central is highly recommended for its prime location and reasonable rates. If you prefer a boutique experience, The Edwardian Manchester offers luxury accommodations and top-notch amenities. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Soapy J is located in central Manchester, adjacent to the Northern Quarter, known for indie boutiques, street art, and café culture. Within walking distance are Manchester Art Gallery and Arndale Shopping Centre. Nearby dining highlights include Rudy's Pizza (artisan wood-fired pizza) and Takk Coffee (Scandinavian-style café). The hotel features industrial-chic design at budget-friendly rates, though note that soundproofing may be limited.
Transport tip: A 10-minute tram ride from Manchester Piccadilly Station or 15-minute walk will get you there.
See what other travelers say about Soapy J

Driving up the A34, the hotel appears quickly on the right—easy to miss if you're not paying attention, especially with oncoming traffic. Once you turn into the on-site parking lot, be aware it’s limited in space; we paid £7 for 24 hours, which can be settled via machine or app. It’s been years since I stayed at a Travelodge, so I was pleasantly surprised. The front desk was efficient and check-in was smooth. The room was modern, spotlessly clean, and the mattress offered great comfort—perfect for a good night’s sleep. The only downside during the heatwave was the lack of air conditioning, but there was a solid fan provided, which did the job well enough. If you’re visiting for a university graduation, access is excellent—just a short walk away. While I can’t personally vouch for city center connectivity, public transport links seem plentiful, making it easy to explore Manchester. Overall, this place offers great value, reliability, and a stress-free stay—highly recommend for travelers looking for a no-fuss, well-located base.

Excellent stay at this Travelodge! The staff, especially Bernadette, were incredibly warm and welcoming from the moment we arrived. She went above and beyond to make us feel at home. Breakfast was delicious—fresh, well-prepared, and a great start to the day. Our room was spotless, quiet despite being on a busy square in the heart of Manchester, thanks to excellent soundproofing. The location is unbeatable for exploring the city center, with everything within walking distance. I’d highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Manchester. A true gem!

Staying at this Travelodge was a total win—especially for the location. Right near Manchester Victoria Station, it’s super convenient if you’re exploring the city or heading out to gigs, which is exactly why I chose it. I went to a music event on the other side of town and an Uber ride there and back was seamless—no hassle at all. The staff were genuinely friendly and welcoming, making check-in feel warm and personal. Breakfast was excellent—wide variety, fresh ingredients, and everything from hot options to pastries and cereals. What surprised me most was how quiet the room was despite being right on a busy road. You’d think the noise would be unbearable, but it wasn’t at all—great soundproofing! It’s a budget hotel, so don’t expect frills like a fridge or iron, but honestly, that’s not what matters. The bed was comfortable, the shower had strong water pressure, and the overall vibe was clean and well-maintained. For me, a good night’s sleep and a solid morning start are the real essentials—and this place delivers on both. If you're looking for a no-fuss, reliable, and well-located stay in Manchester, this is a top pick.

The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, the room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. The breakfast options were decent and satisfying, and the location is perfect for exploring Manchester’s city center—just a short walk to public transit and major attractions. Everything about this stay exceeded my expectations. I’d absolutely recommend it and would definitely return in the future.

Staying at this Travelodge was an absolute delight! The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk from the city center and right next to a variety of small shops where you can grab snacks or a quick meal. The hotel itself is clean, well-maintained, and staff are friendly and helpful. Even though the room is modest in size, it’s perfectly functional with all the essentials. What truly stands out is the surrounding scenery—Manchester’s natural beauty shines through, especially during walks around the area. It’s peaceful, picturesque, and makes the whole experience feel special. For the price, it’s an unbeatable value. I’d definitely stay here again.

I've stayed in many places across Manchester over the past 15 years, and this one truly stands out as the best by far. I genuinely wish I'd discovered it sooner! The value for money is exceptional—every aspect of the stay exceeded my expectations. Located right in the heart of the city, it's surrounded by fantastic amenities, from lively bars to great restaurants, all within walking distance. Public transport links are excellent too—Manchester Victoria and Piccadilly stations are just a short walk away, making day trips to places like Trafford Centre or exploring other parts of the North West incredibly easy. The apartment itself was spacious and thoughtfully designed, with a super comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The room was completely quiet, which was perfect after a long day. The bathroom and kitchen were both top-notch—plenty of utensils and appliances, so cooking during my stay was a breeze. Even better, the staff were warm, welcoming, and created a friendly, almost family-like atmosphere that made the whole experience feel special. Highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Manchester.

Staying at Church Street by Supercity Aparthotels was a fantastic experience. The apartment was well-equipped and incredibly comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night's sleep. The only minor hiccup was with the patio doors leading to the balcony—they were a bit tricky to open, but we figured it out after a few tries. Overall, this place exceeded our expectations. Great location, modern amenities, and excellent value. I’d definitely book here again without hesitation.

Staying at Hyatt House Manchester was an absolutely fantastic experience. Located just steps away from the University of Manchester, it's perfect for both business and leisure travelers—especially if you're here to catch a Premier League match like we were. The room was spacious by UK standards, and when we booked two rooms, we were upgraded to a suite at no extra cost—such a pleasant surprise! The staff went above and beyond, particularly one Asian manager at the front desk who helped arrange transportation with genuine care and attention. The hotel is clean, modern, and well-maintained throughout. It’s clear they value guest satisfaction. I’ve already planned my next trip back—this place truly stands out, and I’d recommend it without hesitation.

Staying at Ville Hotel for the second time was just as enjoyable as the first. This time I booked a ground-floor room with a window, and it was noticeably more comfortable than my previous stay—better lighting, more space, and a nice sense of openness. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, even offering to store my luggage, which made checking in and out so much easier. One of the best things about this hotel is its location—just a short walk from the riverfront. Taking a peaceful stroll along the riverside in the evening is pure bliss, with a calm atmosphere and great views. It’s a perfect spot to unwind after a busy day exploring Manchester. The overall experience was excellent, and I’d definitely come back. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a cozy, well-located stay with genuine hospitality.

Staying at Castlefield Hotel was a fantastic experience. The location is perfect—just a short walk from Deansgate and Oxford Road stations, making it super easy to get around Manchester by train. I was especially impressed with the value for money; the room was clean, well-appointed, and offered great comfort without breaking the bank. The staff at reception were warm and welcoming, always ready to help. One of my favorite things was the outdoor balcony just beside the front desk, overlooking the canal—it’s such a peaceful spot to enjoy a drink from the bar in the evening. Manchester’s city center is easily accessible on foot, so you can explore all the highlights without needing transport. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel truly delivers.

Had an excellent stay here last weekend! I understand some guests mention noise, but let’s be honest—this property is on Canal Street, so there’s naturally some city buzz. However, I was in bed by 1 a.m. and slept through the whole night without any disturbance. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Manchester, steps away from restaurants, shops, and public transit. The staff went above and beyond with their warm hospitality, making the entire experience feel welcoming and personal. Clean, comfortable rooms and a great vibe overall. Definitely a top pick if you're visiting Manchester—would stay again in a heartbeat!

I always choose this hotel whenever I visit Manchester, and it never disappoints. It's perfectly located right across from Chinatown, with bars just a quick crosswalk away. Walking to shopping centres, pharmacies, and beauty stores takes less than 10 minutes—so convenient. This time around, I stayed in the room type I love most, and it easily surpassed all previous options I’ve tried. The space is incredibly generous, offering more comfort and openness than any other layout I’ve experienced here. Excellent value, great service, and a fantastic location—this is my top pick for Manchester.
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