Where?

Just off Whitworth Street West, behind what was once the Hacienda, and incredibly close to train and tram stops so minimum walking is required (hurrah!). If you recall that it used to be Cheerleaders, you're showing your age.

What?

A bar-cum-club, Aqua is the easy choice for anyone who's dithering about where to go for a post-pub drink or a crowd-pleasing night out. Equipped with dancefloor, plenty of seating via booths and couches and a terrace overlooking the canal (hence Aqua, one would presume), it's got a little something for everyone.

Handbag or Heavy Metal?

Be warned -- riding roughshod over the custom of sticking with just the one musical genre, the Aqua DJ will play the The Smiths followed by Destiny's Child without the hint of a blush. If not one track gets you up on the dancefloor, then you obviously have no ears.

The In Crowd?

With punters as mixed as the music policy, Aqua will suit most easy-going clubbers. However, its a bit of a no-frills experience so if posing in a sultry fashion is your bag, you're better off on Deansgate Locks. Come classy, come casual, as long as you've come for a good time.

What's the damage?

Free in before 11pm, and with the added perk of a happy hour, you can get nicely sozzled before you even realise you are back to paying full price for your ale. And you can always sample the Aqua cocktail at £2.50 a pop.

Verdict?

The perfect venue for a group with mixed musical tastes, bonded only by a common love of socialising, alcohol and silly dancing.