Kraak is keeping the independent, underground heart of Manchester firmly beating. A converted warehouse building down a cobbled back alley in the northern quarter. Can be a bit tricky to find but that just adds to the 90s Berlin feel of the place. There is a stage for bands and the bar has slowly evolved over time going from a wonky table serving only RedStripe to a full bar at the back serving chilled bottles/cans and sprits/mixers. Loads of different nights happen here, from drag performers, sweaty disco nights, Punk all-dayers, film showings and art events. The party sometimes spills out into the alley too, with a big street party as part of the gay pride fringe. You may want to go the first time with someone who knows where it is, but once youve found it youll be going again and again!

Kraak has two different sides to it… I’ve been to a friends University art show in the gallery which this space is perfect for. I’d describe it as uneven and industrial. The other side to it is the club space I visited one sunny weekend. The day began with a really casual street party in the alleyway/courtyard between the two spaces and developed into a beer swigging, glitter cannoning, dancing street party. They hold plenty of regular and irregular events at Kraak.

Eventually found this venue, just off Stevenson Square, NQ, after a lonfg time circling the building it is in for 20 mins. But was in time to see the support acts, it's one of those dingy but cute and ultra hip venues that makes Manchester so uber cool. Fairly priced bar too! Loved it!

How do people find this place?! It's a hole in the wall hidden down a tiny alley with no sign. Good luck finding it. It's always empty no surprise really. It's a good spot once there but I think it's mad they've chosen this place to start a bar.

I love this place! Few venues like it in Manchester, it's rough as hell but cheap and also fun. No frills but nice staff and venue.

One of the best alt venues in the city. Such a shame it's no longer hosting nights.

This place is now called Aatma.

Cute kooky venue