The ultimate guide to a sober night out in Manchester

Going clubbing sober in Manchester might sound like a wild concept, considering the city’s buzzing nightlife scene. Hear us out. It’s absolutely worth a go.

Whether you want to avoid the dreaded hangover before your 9am seminar, prefer feeling fully in control, or just fancy trying something different, a sober night out can be just as fun. Imagine waking up fresh the next morning, with no embarrassing drunken regrets and the clearest memories of dancing the night away with your friends. Here’s a guide to successfully completing a sober night out in Manchester.

1. Prepare

Going out sober doesn’t need a detailed plan, but a bit of preparation goes a long way. Start by planning the essentials such as:

• Where are you going?
• Who are you going with? And are they going to be sober too?
• What time do you plan on going home?

We also advise letting your friends know that you’re going to be sober before the night kicks off – it saves you from any awkward moments or pressure later. A plan can help you feel more confident, even if you choose to deviate from it eventually.

2. Go with the right people

The people you go out with can make all the difference. We’d advise going out with friends that you already feel completely comfortable around sober – people who you feel like you can trust, hype you up, make you laugh and not judge you for not drinking. Surrounding yourself with people that you feel safe and confident around is one of the most important parts of going out sober.

3. Where to go

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Here’s the truth: Whether drinking or not, a club is only ever fun if you enjoy the music and atmosphere. Luckily, Manchester has a club for just about every taste and vibe you could imagine. Here are a few that we recommend:

• 42^nd Street (42s) – For the indie and rock lovers. This is a particular favourite of ours.
• Deaf Institute – Ideal for theme nights and intimate gigs.
• Factory 251 – Three different floors, three different vibes. There will always be something for both you and your friends to enjoy.

Sticking to a club that you’re already familiar with is a great way to be prepared. You’ll know the layout, the crowd and what to expect so you’ll feel much more comfortable.

4. Drinks – It doesn’t always have to be alcohol

A club night means a late night; energy drinks are a good way to power through this. Having a Red Bull, Diet Coke or lemonade to hold while you dance surprisingly makes you feel a lot more comfortable, and less out of place – it also keeps you energised. Alternatively, if you’re going to a bar, a mocktail is always a good alternative and often costs far less than the booze.

5. Listen to other people’s experiences

Talk to friends who’ve gone out sober – their advice can be surprisingly helpful. When we asked around, many who have done so said they loved the experience, appreciating the music and being fully present in the moment. That said, not everyone finds sober nights out comfortable, and that’s okay. The important thing is knowing you can leave whenever you want. No matter how it goes, it’s definitely worth giving it a try.

Clubbing sober might feel daunting at first, but it’s also empowering. You’ll leave with a boost of confidence, a fresh mindset… and really help you feel well and productive the next day without having to miss out on the fun from the night before. So give it a go – you’re now set for the best (sober) night out in Manchester. Now go and dance the night away!