Cheers to the Skies: Wetherspoons Soars into Manchester Airport's New Terminal

Ah, Manchester Airport. The gateway to the world—or, at least, the gateway to the other side of the bar. Next year, it will make a momentous addition to its menu with its very first JD Wetherspoon pub. Yes, you heard that right. Who knew that sipping a pint while waiting for your flight could become a reality?

The name of the pub is still under wraps, but rest assured, its décor will be a love letter to the North's sporting legends. Picture this: hanging memorabilia, nostalgia wafting through the air like a well-poured pint. And, of course, let’s not forget the classic Wetherspoon staples. We’re talking budget-friendly breakfasts that are the salvation for any early-morning traveler, and an array of beers, wines, ciders, and spirits that could make even the most seasoned frequent flyer do a double-take.

The Wetherspoon establishment is merely the tip of the iceberg— or should I say the froth of the pint? The new Terminal 2, which is set to unveil itself in the summer of 2025, will play host to an impressive lineup of food and drink outlets. Other lovely additions include the ever-reliable Greggs, the sophisticated Upper Crust, the caffeine-boosting Starbucks, and the delightful WHSmith's Grindsmith Café. Isn’t it grand? One can partake in the luxurious delights of traveling while munching on a sausage roll or sipping a flat white.

If that weren't enough, the pièce de résistance will be the Great Northern Market, a lavish 472-seat food hall that promises to showcase the high and mighty of Manchester's street food scene. Imagine traveling the culinary world without ever leaving the airport— pizza, Mexican fare, noodles— oh my! And let’s not overlook the sweet temptations from local dessert darling, Gooey. Who could possibly say no to that?

For those who prefer to indulge in retail therapy, prepare to be dazzled by brands that could make even your suitcase feel underdressed. Chanel will open its first standalone airport makeup and skincare boutique—because who doesn’t need a little glam before hopping on a plane? Pandora will also join the party, along with Rituals and LEGO! Yes, folks, you can relive your childhood while waiting for your gate announcement.

Richard Jackson, the retail maestro of Manchester Airport, is positively brimming with pride over the top-tier amenities that Terminal 2 will unveil. He stated, "We are proud of the world-class facilities on offer in Terminal 2, and a key part of our vision for the finished terminal is to provide an unrivaled experience for passengers shopping and dining before they catch their flight." One can’t help but wonder if he will be personally hand-delivering each pint of ale to the eager travelers.

Jackson added, “We've worked hard to ensure we're bringing exciting, classic brands like Chanel and Pandora to the airport, as well as Fever-Tree opening a statement cocktail bar and our very own Lego store.” And can you blame him? Who wouldn’t want a bit of bubbly alongside their favorite comfortable fast-food staple like Wetherspoon and Greggs? In the end, it’s all about balance, isn’t it?

The first phase of Terminal 2 welcomed a variety of local brands when it opened in 2021, including the neon-soaked allure of Archies, the irresistible appeal of pizza from San Carlo, and the comforting embrace of café chain Pot Kettle Black. And, let’s not forget the reliable airport favorites: Pret A Manger, MandS Food, and Starbucks. By summer 2025, we will witness a rosy new chapter in the saga of air travel: one that tantalizes our taste buds and comforts our souls while we surge through security.