There are city-centre pubs, and then there’s The Millstone. Sitting proudly on Thomas Street in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, this proper old-school boozer has been part of the city’s pub scene since at least 1794, making it one of Manchester’s longstanding survivors. The pub appeared on the 1844 Ordnance Survey map as the Mill Stone and Fountain Inn, and was later a Wilsons pub before JW Lees took it on in 2004.

Today, The Millstone remains refreshingly true to its roots. Original touches such as traditional tiles, wooden floors and exposed brickwork sit alongside a lively, unmistakably Mancunian atmosphere. It’s the sort of place where regulars know the score, newcomers are soon made to feel at home and a quiet pint can very easily turn into a full-blown singalong. The pub has become particularly famous for its karaoke, with live singalong entertainment running twice a day, every day. Some singers are polished, some are decidedly more enthusiastic, but that’s rather the point. There’s no room for taking yourself too seriously here.

The Millstone has earned plenty of love from its regulars and visitors over the years, with reviewers describing it as a “truly Mancunian pub”, a “treasure” in the city centre and a place with a warm, friendly atmosphere. It has even featured in guides to Manchester’s best beers and pubs. Surrounded by the ever-changing Northern Quarter, The Millstone continues to fly the flag for the traditional Manchester boozer. No airs, no fuss, just good beer, good company and, sooner or later, somebody grabbing the microphone.