Ever found yourself eyeing up the park from your office window, wondering why your desk couldn’t be out there instead? Or caught yourself checking the weather forecast just to plan your lunch break around it?
A good roof terrace solves both problems. It’s that rare bit of outdoor space that’s still close enough to be productive, perfect for stepping away from the desk without really leaving work behind, whether that’s a change of scenery to think something through or a proper break with the team.
We’ve made a list of four Greater Manchester offices with roof terraces worth knowing about.
Blackfriars House
Blackfriars House sits behind Parsonage Gardens, just a short walk from Deansgate and Spinningfields. It’s one of the most amenity-rich buildings in the city centre, with a free customer gym, independent coffee shop, business lounge, podcast studio, and auditorium.
The recently renovated roof terrace offers unobstructed views across the Manchester skyline and River Irwell – one of the best outlooks of any office in the city. A sheltered area fitted with a large screen makes it a practical choice for outdoor presentations and client meetings, as well as a great everyday space for tenants.
Base
Base is a purpose-built Grade A scheme on Manchester Science Park, designed specifically for technology and science businesses. Completed in 2022, it sits on the Oxford Road corridor alongside the city’s leading universities, with an on-site gym, café, event space, and an EPC A rating.
The roof terrace is finished with artificial grass, sun loungers, and soft seating, and connects directly to an events space with complimentary refreshments. It’s a relaxed, well-considered space that works just as well for a team social as it does for a quieter lunch away from the desk.
Lancastrian
Lancastrian occupies a prominent spot on Talbot Road in Old Trafford, directly adjacent to Old Trafford Cricket Ground and the UA92 university campus, with the Metrolink just two minutes on foot. It offers flexible suites from under 400 sq ft, on-site parking, and a Customer Services Team in reception.
The roof garden here delivers one of the more distinctive views in Greater Manchester’s office market – directly onto Old Trafford Cricket Ground. Paired with an indoor Business Lounge and a fitted kitchenette, it’s a space that gets used daily rather than just on special occasions, and works well across all seasons.
Civic
Civic is the standout office building in Wigan – a beautifully refurbished brutalist building on Millgate, brought back to life by Capital & Centric in partnership with Wigan Council. Alongside the restored original features, it offers a café run by Cotton, a free customer gym, a mini-cinema, and fully fitted and furnished suites.
The roof terrace is finished with artificial grass and open seating, with views across Wigan town centre. Outdoor amenity is rare at this level in Wigan, and it sits naturally alongside what is one of the most ambitious office refurbishments in the North West in recent years.
