For Manchester holidaymakers, a pre-flight pint at Terminal 2 may now require patience before they even reach the bar.

Airport pub queues have formed outside The Belle Vue, the new Wetherspoon pub drawing heavy interest since opening last week.

Some passengers say the wait continues indoors, where crowded tables and busy service have taken the shine off their visit.

One early flyer described finding a queue around 5am, then leaving after feeling cramped and receiving beer they said was flat.

Another passenger complained that Guinness had run out after they waited to get in.

For travellers watching the clock before boarding, even a short delay can feel much longer.

The pub sits toward Terminal 2’s D gates and draws on the history of Manchester’s Belle Vue sporting venue.

Its displays recall the circus, speedway and greyhound racing, alongside well-known sporting figures from the region.

That local character gives passengers something distinctive to visit, but it has also helped make the opening an attraction.

With room for around 300 customers, the pub cannot simply keep admitting people when seats and standing space are taken.

Wetherspoon says exceptional demand has caused the disruption and that legal pub capacity limits are behind the queues.

The company has apologised and expects conditions to improve once the opening rush eases.

It also says it is checking the complaint about flat beer and has increased Guinness orders following the shortage.

Popularity, however, is little comfort to someone hoping for a relaxed start to a holiday.

Passengers have described an uncomfortably packed room, while others say they chose a quieter bar instead.

Manchester Airport says customers usually move on relatively quickly as their flights approach, which may help queues turn over.

It has also pointed travellers toward nearby places to eat and drink, including the adjoining Great Northern Market food hall.

For now, anyone set on visiting The Belle Vue may want to check the queue before committing precious pre-flight time.

A calm departure matters more than squeezing in one last pint.