We found the best independent cafes in Manchester for a winter warmer

As the Manchester days get duskier and Fallowfield becomes a little frostier, the warmth and snugness of a cafe can provide the perfect brew away from home. If you aren’t up for a crisp stroll around Platt Fields, or you desperately want to escape the sameness of your bed-rotting den, here are some of our favourite cafes that might just be your new ideal winter retreat.

Fuel Café Bar in Withington

Roomy and colourful, Fuel is a homey favourite for Withington’s third year warriors, and a popular place for a Sunday study session. Their All-Day Breakfast means you don’t need to worry about that 3pm brunch cut off if you fancy a veggie sausage and egg based dinner.

Even if you’re not a breakfast person, there’s no breaking the bank for a feel-good winter supper: With a £4.50 soup of the day on the menu, you can satisfy your palate and warm up from the nippy outdoors.

The Giving Tree in Moss Side

If your 43p Sainsbury’s bourbons aren’t hitting the spot, or you fancy your coffee fix in a different part of town, head over to The Giving Tree for cakes and bakes, and a fresh organic latte. A “community hub” which provides English classes and has an actual Giving Tree, this cafe comes with all the positive vibes. Cushy and emerald green, this spot is definitely one to check out if you love a home baked sweet treat or loaded cheesy sandwich.

Haus in Fallowfield

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Haus is one of the most popular student brunch spots and for good reason. If you’re after somewhere for a wholesome catch up with a mate over yummy scran, somewhere to take your home friends after their first Manny night out, or even just in need of some comfort food to cure your winter blues – Haus is your place.

Their “something different” menu range branches out from the standard Full English, and gives you offerings of Fried Chicken Waffles and Shakshuka. It’s airy inside but still feels cosy, and their wide tea selection for just £2.80 a cup provides the perfect hot refresher while putting in an essay writing shift.

Federal Cafe in the city centre

Popping to Affleck’s for cheeky piercing? Or just going for a wintry wander in and around Northern Quarter? Head over to Federal Cafe! While this isn’t an independent cafe per se, it does come with the same cosy and hearty atmosphere of your favourite local. It is more on the expensive side where food is concerned so, if you’re not looking to splurge after buying one too many posters, their £3.00 hot brew provides the perfect winter warmer.