The concept of coworking spaces has revolutionised the way we think about work and office environments. Once an obscure idea, coworking spaces have now become a thriving industry, providing flexible work environments for freelancers, remote workers, entrepreneurs, and businesses of all sizes. One city that has embraced this trend with open arms is Manchester.
As one of the UK’s most vibrant and dynamic cities, Manchester has always been a hub for innovation and creativity. It’s no surprise, then, that coworking spaces have flourished here, providing a fertile ground for collaboration, networking, and business growth. These shared spaces offer much more than just a desk and an internet connection. They provide a community of like-minded professionals, access to state-of-the-art amenities, and a stimulating environment that fosters productivity and creativity.
Whether you’re a freelancer looking for a change of scenery, a start-up in need of an affordable office, or a corporation seeking a flexible alternative to traditional office spaces, Manchester’s coworking spaces have something to offer. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a tour of the best coworking spaces in Manchester, helping you find the perfect space to nurture your ideas and grow your business.
The Best Coworking Spaces in Manchester
As we navigate the post-COVID world, coworking spaces are proving to be the ideal solution for businesses looking for flexibility and collaboration. Here, we will explore some of the best coworking spaces in Manchester, each offering unique amenities and experiences tailored to the needs of its community.
WeWork One St Peter’s Square
Located at the heart of the city, WeWork One St Peter’s Square is more than just a coworking space. It’s a vibrant community offering a variety of workspaces, from private offices to collaborative areas, all within a 10-minute walk to the city centre. This location also provides 24/7 access for members, making it a convenient option for those with non-traditional working hours.
The amenities at WeWork One St Peter’s Square are designed to foster productivity and convenience. There is an onsite barista for your caffeine needs, showers for those cycling to work or hitting the gym during lunch, and even pubs like The Alchemist on the ground floor for after-work socialising.
NEO
Neo, a forward-thinking transformation of the renowned Manchester landmark previously known as Bank House, provides a flexible and collaborative workspace that caters to the diverse needs of modern professionals.
Undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment, Neo now serves as the base for a multitude of globally recognised businesses. These businesses flourish within the building’s adaptability and its ethos of promoting community interaction.
Neo is purposefully designed to stimulate collaboration, thereby aiding business growth and fostering valuable connections. The coworking memberships, priced at £95 per month, allow members access to the lounge coworking space three days per week. Shared desks, available at £195 per month, provide the flexibility of using a shared desk within the coworking space for three days a week. For those desiring a dedicated workspace, personal desks are offered at £295 per month, which includes full-time, 24/7 access to your own personal desk within the coworking space.
However, Neo’s offerings extend beyond flexible workspace. The building boasts an array of amenities designed to enhance the work-life balance and create a holistic working environment. These amenities include an on-site wellness suite, 24/7 access, showers and changing facilities, secure bike storage, regular community events, and much more.
Whether you’re a freelancer, a start-up, or an established brand, Neo sets the stage for prosperous interactions and growth. Its digitally savvy, socially engaged, and physically adaptable design, along with its enriching amenities, redefine what a modern workspace should be.
Colony One Silk Street
Colony One Silk Street is known for its premium facilities and stunning views. Offering generously sized meeting rooms, privacy booths, collaboration zones, and individual workspaces, it caters to a variety of flexible working styles. The highlight of this space, however, is the expansive roof terrace that provides panoramic views of Manchester’s skyline.
This coworking space offers flexibility in membership, with options ranging from day passes to all-inclusive monthly packages, which provide 24/7 access.
Flagship Spaces
Flagship Spaces prides itself on its central location and state-of-the-art facilities. This coworking space offers top-of-the-line ergonomic chairs and dual sit/stand desks. While it’s a smaller space with room for only 30 members, Flagship manages to provide a range of amenities including hot desks, soundproof private phone booths, meeting rooms, and breakout rooms.
Memberships start from £180 per month, with options available for businesses needing private offices and independent workers needing dedicated desks.
Industrious St Peter’s Square
Whether you’re a business looking for office space or a hybrid worker seeking a productive environment, Industrious St Peter’s Square has got you covered. Situated less than a 10-minute walk from the city centre, the coworking space offers a range of options from open workspaces for freelancers to offices for start-ups and suites for small businesses.
The Industrious office offers additional perks such as 24/7 access, bike storage, and included food and drinks. There’s also a concierge service and at least two guest passes every month, making it an excellent option for businesses needing a professional and comprehensive workspace solution.
Use Space
Use Space offers a collaborative environment for freethinking creatives and small businesses. Located just a 12-minute walk from Piccadilly Station, it boasts a friendly community vibe and a range of facilities including offices, free meeting rooms, breakout areas, and a garden. It’s also one of the few Manchester coworking spaces that offers free onsite parking.
The pricing at Use Space is flexible, with options for half-day access, full-day access, and a unique monthly membership that offers 40 flexible hours of use.
WeWork Dalton Place
WeWork Dalton Place offers a less corporate, cosier workspace, still furnished with all the premium amenities typical of other locations of WeWork. Unique features of this location include a rooftop terrace, dog-friendly environment, showers, and bike storage.
This location, like other WeWork locations in Manchester, offers day passes starting at £25 per day and meeting rooms at £15 per seat, per hour. Monthly memberships with a 25% discount for the first five months are also available. The space is open 24/7 to members and from 9 am to 6 pm for day visitors.
Manchester’s coworking spaces have something for everyone, from start-ups to freelancers, creatives to corporate teams. The choice depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. It’s always a good idea to visit a few places before making your decision. Most coworking spaces offer free trials or tours, so take advantage of these to get a feel for the space and community.
Colony Janctin House
Located in the dynamic heart of Ancoats, a region in Central Manchester steeped in cultural history and contemporary entrepreneurial energy, you’ll find Jactin House. Overlooking the bustling Cutting Room Square, a thriving center for independent bars, shops, and restaurants, this prestigious building stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant history and bright future.
Erected in 1881, Jactin House initially served as a residence for local mill workers during the industrial revolution. The building underwent a comprehensive refurbishment in 2016, transforming it into a sanctuary for a new generation of innovative pioneers.
Today, Jactin House is not only a coworking space for creative businesses, but a hub for collaboration and innovation. It provides a range of facilities designed to foster productivity and creativity. These include dedicated collaborative zones for team brainstorming and project development, a state-of-the-art screening room for presentations or film viewing, as well as versatile meeting and conference rooms for formal business discussions.
Moreover, it boasts a roof terrace, offering a breath of fresh air and a change of scenery for those looking to unwind or spark inspiration. The workspace also features phone and screen booths for focused work or private calls, and each member has access to personal storage.
One of the most significant advantages of Jactin House is the 24/7 access. No matter what your work schedule looks like, you can work at your own pace, at any time of the day or night.
Its location is perfect for businesses that value a unique approach while benefiting from extensive facilities. With Manchester Piccadilly station just a short 7-minute walk away, reaching Jactin House is effortless whether you choose to travel by train, tram, bus, car, or even bicycle.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Coworking Space
When it comes to selecting a coworking space, there are several factors to take into account to ensure it’s the right fit for you and your business.
Location
The coworking space should be conveniently located, ideally close to your home or centrally positioned if you meet clients regularly. You might also want to consider the surroundings – are there restaurants, cafes, or parks nearby?
Facilities
Look at the amenities provided. Is there a kitchen or cafe? Are meeting rooms or private space available? What about business class printers, scanners, or other office equipment? Some coworking spaces offer extras like showers, bike storage, dedicated desk facilities, or outdoor areas, which might be important to you.
Accessibility
Consider the opening hours of the coworking space. Some offer 24/7 access, which is handy if you work non-traditional hours. Check also if they offer disability access if that’s a necessity for you or your clients.
Community
Coworking spaces often have a community vibe, offering networking events or social activities. If this interests you, find out what’s on offer. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet, distraction-free environment, a coworking space that markets itself as a social hub might not be the best fit.
Cost
Pricing structures vary widely between coworking spaces. Some offer flexible options like pay-per-minute or day passes, while others require a monthly membership. Be sure to understand what’s included in the price – are utilities, cleaning, and internet included? Are there extra costs for using meeting rooms or equipment?
Trial Period
Many coworking spaces offer a free trial period or a day pass so you can try before you commit. This is a great way to test out the space and see if it suits your working style.
Remember, the best coworking space is one that fits your specific needs and work style. Take your time to explore your options and make the decision that will boost your productivity and work satisfaction.
Making the Most of Your Coworking Space
Once you’ve chosen your ideal coworking space, it’s essential to know how to maximise its benefits. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your coworking experience:
Engage with the Community
Coworking spaces are not just about the physical space; they are also about the people. Attend social events, engage with fellow coworkers during breaks, and participate in networking events. These interactions can lead to collaborative opportunities, new business, or simply a more enjoyable work environment.
Use the Facilities
Make the most of the amenities provided. If your coworking space offers meeting rooms or conference facilities, don’t hesitate to use them for your client meetings or team discussions. If there’s a kitchen or cafe, use it not just for meals, but also as an informal meeting space or a change of scenery from your desk. Rare facilities, such as studio space
Set a Routine
While coworking spaces offer flexibility, having a routine can help you stay productive. Establish regular working hours and stick to them as much as possible. Remember to take regular breaks to rest your eyes and stretch your legs.
Respect the Space
Treat the coworking space as you would your very own own desk space or office. Keep your workspace tidy and clean up after yourself in communal areas. Be considerate of noise levels when on calls or listening to music.
Provide Feedback
If there’s something you feel could improve the space or the community, don’t hesitate to provide feedback to the coworking space’s management. They’ll likely appreciate your input as they seek to improve the experience for all members.
Looking for Coworking Space in Manchester?
Coworking spaces can offer a fantastic work environment that combines the best aspects of office life and remote working. By engaging with the community, taking advantage of the facilities, maintaining a productive routine, respecting the space, and providing constructive feedback, you’ll ensure you’re making the most of your coworking space.
Manchester’s thriving business scene and vibrant city life make it a prime location for coworking spaces. From modern, high-tech offices to more cosy, creative environments, there’s a coworking space for everyone. Whether you’re a freelancer, a small business owner, or part of a larger team, you’re sure to find the perfect Manchester coworking space to suit your needs.