The secret Manchester bar hidden behind a launderette that's got exciting plans to expand

The ‘secret’ bar hidden behind a laundrette in Manchester is looking to expand now their latest plans have been approved.

The Washhouse, disguised as a laundrette in Shudehill, is accessed via a tumble dryer door where revellers walk through into a secret bar complete with DJs and a dancefloor. Clubbers come from far and wide to party in their special disco loos.

New plans will see the second floor transformed from vacant office space into a seating area and bar with the space for 55 people – increasing their overall capacity.

A planning report said: “Like the rest of The Washhouse, the bar will focus on cocktails, and therefore there is limited waste as they do not serve individual bottled drinks. 

“This area will also operate in the same manner as the rest of the bar; reservations and seating only, which ensures the bar is well controlled.”

The exclusive bookings-only bar will be able to welcome more partygoers once the renovations are completed. The bar is so convincing as a laundrette that people turned up with dirty washing in the past had to be turned away.

One unhappy camper actually reported them to Trading Standards in 2016 after not being able to get their washing done. This led to The Washhouse having to make clear they are a bar and not a laundrette.

There is still an element of mystery on their website though as the homepage states: “We don’t cater for all of your laundry needs and more. Our friendly staff won’t take care of your washing and it’s probably best not to let them loose near a washing machine. But, whether you are a local resident or a student, or passing by Manchester, drop in and give us a spin.”