The Pen & Pencil is a New York-inspired bar and restaurant on the corner of Hilton and Tariff Street (57 Hilton Street) in Manchester's Northern Quarter (M1 2EJ), named after the infamous mid-20th-century bar on East 45th Street in New York's 'Steak Row'. Wednesdays here are all about live music: a weekly open mic from 8pm hosted by singer-songwriter Izzie Walsh, a well-known fixture of the Manchester open-mic circuit (she also hosts at The Bay Horse on Thursdays). Expect an open, varied bill — singers, performers, comedians, poets, spoken word and anything else. A PA and vocal mic are provided; bring your own instrument, amp and pedals. Manchester's open-mic scene is built around the Northern Quarter circuit, so you'll find a mix of working musicians and curious locals. Solo songwriters, duos and acoustic acts work best; full bands should ask the host first.
The Pen & Pencil Open Mic
Northern Quarter's wednesday-night free open mic at The Pen & Pencil — PA + vocal mic, walk-in sign-up from 7:30pm, 15-minute slots, all ages.
Last updated: 3 June 2026
The Pen & Pencil Open Mic — Quick Facts
Northern Quarter's wednesday-night free open mic at The Pen & Pencil — PA + vocal mic, walk-in sign-up from 7:30pm, 15-minute slots, all ages.
Everything you need before you turn up
Where
The Pen & Pencil57 Hilton Street
Northern Quarter
Manchester M1 2EJ
Northern Quarter, Manchester — check venue website for parking and nearest station.
Highlights
What’s on in Manchester this week — or see what’s on across the UK.
About The Pen & Pencil
About This Open Mic
The Night
The Pen & Pencil's Wednesday open mic, on the corner of Hilton and Tariff Street in the Northern Quarter, is hosted by singer-songwriter Izzie Walsh — one of Manchester's most in-demand open-mic hosts. It kicks off at 8pm and it's properly open: singers, musicians, comedians, poets, spoken word, anything you can think of. Free to attend and play, with a PA on hand. A buzzing NQ room mixing working musicians with curious locals.
What's on stage — equipment and backline at this venue, verified regularly.
The Night at a Glance
How The Pen & Pencil’s Wednesday night runs.
Find The Pen & Pencil
57 Hilton Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester M1 2EJ
Planning Your Wednesday Night
Arrive by 19:30 to sign up for a slot. Entry is free and the open mic typically runs until late. A PA is provided — bring your own instrument and amp.
Part of the Manchester live music scene.
Common Questions
Seven things people ask before turning up at Manchester's The Pen & Pencil open mic.
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