Very rough thoughts on where we might visit.
Manchester doesn't do early, apart from the Spoons of course, so 12 midday start.
For those arriving at Piccadilly (most of you I would think), nearest tram stop to Pilcrow is Shude Hill on the Bury or Rochdale lines.
Pilcrow, Angel, Marble Arch, Fringe, Crown & Kettle, Smithfield (opens at 2). Wildcard Castle.
Trip across town via tram to St Peters Square or if walking maybe call in Soup Kitchen, Flok, Pie & Ale or Beermoth on the way (ish).
The tram is free when travelling between the stations, so you may have to "accidently" get on the wrong tram to go to St Peters Square.
From St Peters Square, City Arms, Peveril Of The Peak, Britons Protection, Gasworks, Knott. Wildcards Rain Bar & Vine.
For those who wish to travel out to Chorlton, tram from Castlefield/Deansgate.
For those who don't, a gentle stroll along Deansgate taking in any or all of, Cask, Rising Sun, Dockyard, Gaslamp, Brink.
Manchester is also not great at beer gardens, so group photo opportunities are limited.
Maybe outside the Pev or the plaza in First Street outside Gasworks.