OUT with the old and in with the new: What better time than January to move on from your local pub and spice up your social life? Nicola Mostyn checks out a selection of Bolton's newest bars.

Maloneys

Where

The latest addition to Nelson Square, next to Life Bar Cafe

What

If you've popped in to Maloney's expecting a touch of the blarney you might be a little surprised to find a trendy pub with a plentiful supply of cocktails and a menu chock full of Mexican food. The only thing remotely Irish is the name.

Decor

An old-style, traditional but sleek look with wooden floors and booths, old American signs on the walls and a large screen showing music videos adding a more contemporary feel.

Sample Tune

Dub Be Good to Me - Beats International

Good for

The huge range of delicious cocktails make it an ideal choice for a girlie night out though the welcoming deccor makes it suitable for just about anyone - though groups of lads may find struggle with the fact that they don't serve pints.

Elements

Where

Near the end of Bradshawgate, next to Yates's.

What

One of the newest recruits to Bolton's Bar scene, Elements is small, brightly lit bar with an upstairs area. Despite the fresh, trendy look of the bar, the crowd was surprisingly, mature, shall we say.

Decor

White walls adorned by minimalist paintings, black leather couches and a small dance floor in the corner equipped with DJ and disco lights.

Sample Tune

Lisa Stansfield - People Hold On

Good for

Being brightly lit and with its smallish downstairs area, Elements is a good choice for couples or friends meeting up for a catch up.

Dali Bar

Where

Bradshawgate, next door to Elements

What

A large two floored, contemporary bar, with an older crowd downstairs, young 'uns gravitating upstairs and a DJ talking the talk from a corner near the downstairs bar.

Decor

The walls of this brightly decorated bar are adorned by prints of paintings by surrealist Savlador Dali, hence the name.

Sample Tune

Jackson Five - I Want You Back, Rick Astley - Never Gonna Give You Up.

Good for

Large mixed groups of any age who favour pop music old and new and a lively night out

The Office

Where

Bank Street

What

A funky venue with a restaurant upstairs and a DJ on the decks downstairs.

Decor: Low lighting flatters surroundings that are cool and understated save for a huge, striking painting adorning one wall. There's lots of standing room, several tables and a couple of comfy couches to lounge on.

Sample Tune

Crystal Waters: Gypsy Woman

Good for

Funky young things who favour a laid back venue with personality.