The Old Wellington: We take a look inside Manchester’s ‘oldest’ pub & huge tourist attraction

The oldest building in Manchester has been licensed as a pub since the 19th century and is frequently termed the city's 'oldest pub'. The Old Wellington near Manchester Cathedral began its life as a draper's shop and residence when it was built in 1552, and the Grade II listed building became a licensed public house in 1830.

Since then it has survived the 1996 Manchester bombing and several structural changes, including being 300 metres closer to the Cathedral in 1999 - along with Sinclair's Oyster Bar - to form Shambles Square.

Despite often being referred to as Manchester's oldest pub, The Old Wellington did not operate as a public house until 278 years after being built - this title goes to The Sawyer's Arms which opened in the 1700s. It is still recognised as Manchester's oldest building and has many original features and traditional characteristics, making it a top site for tourists and locals alike.