Manchester is notorious for its live music scene in the UK. Some of the world's biggest bands and artists have performed here over the years, and many famous acts call this city home. Part of the reason for this rich history of music in the city is down to its iconic music venues, where they have hosted countless memorable nights. Join CrossCountry as we take you through some of the best live music venues in Manchester.
Band on the Wall
If you’re looking for a venue that hosts the hottest acts in a wide range of genres, look no further than Band on the Wall This venue has a proud history that started a long time before it held any gigs. Due to its location in the city’s market district, the venue played an integral part during the Industrial Revolution, hosting several large demonstrations. Following this, Band on the Wall has stayed true to its history, by remaining a space for people to meet and enjoy quality music, becoming an important part of the music scene in Manchester.
Beyond the music, there is also a wide range of other activities that are held at Band on the Wall, with yoga classes held there regularly throughout the year. Family friendly events are also held during half term and beyond for toddlers, with opportunities for them to get creative with instruments and to learn more about the magic of live music. Band on the wall is located right in the heart of the market district in Manchester, which is just a fifteen-minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly.
Night & Day Café
Opened in 1991, in what was once a fish and chip shop, Night & Day Café is hugely popular for more than just its iconic gigs. What can be described as the beating heart of music venues in Manchester, it is highly regarded by locals and musical artists alike, though it has had to overcome some adversity in its history. Despite threats of closure, Night & Day Café has managed to keep running its unforgettable gigs, thanks to local support and backing from past musical acts.
Night & Day organically turned into a music venue early in its venture, eager to help nurture the growing alternative music scene of the time and area. Now, there are countless gigs on every night, ranging from that alternative genre they are famous for to house and club classic DJ nights. Located just a ten-minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly, Night & Day Café is not to be missed.
Corn Exchange
The Corn Exchange in Manchester is the ideal venue for anyone looking for more of a low-key evening of live music. Held weekly on Thursday nights, the Corn Exchange provides visitors with a few hours of live acoustic performances from local talent. The venue is famous for its Edwardian atrium which adds something special to each performance.
Alongside the live music, there are plenty of other activities that add to the experience at the venue. The Corn Exchange hosts a variety of restaurants as well as other forms of entertainment such as escape rooms, making a night at The Corn Exchange a memorable one alongside the live performances. Located just twenty minutes from Manchester Piccadilly on foot, or just ten minutes when catching the tram, you’re not too far from one of the best live music bars in Manchester.
The Oast House
When the weather is good, live music and great food in a spacious but bustling courtyard is the recipe for a great day out. The Oast House in Manchester has all of this in abundance. This venue is popular amongst the locals, with live music seven days a week of varying genres, so there is something for everyone. The food on offer mirrors the eclectic music, with a number of different cuisines available. Choose from the classic range such as fish and chips or an array of tasty burgers, or if you’re in the mood for something more Mediterranean, take a look at the gyros which is complete with plant-based options too.
Manifest is The Oast Houses' very own day long music festival, which takes place several times a year. Boasting a vibrant party atmosphere, this festival is not to be missed, and you don’t have to pack your wellies either. The Oast House is just a twenty-minute bus journey away from Manchester Piccadilly and is located right by the River Irwell, which makes for a picture-perfect view.
Manchester Academy
Manchester Academy is a renowned live music venue in the UK, not just in Manchester. This space started hosting live jazz nights back in 1963 and has been going from strength to strength ever since then. It has hosted some iconic bands and artists in that time too. Queen, Jimi Hendrix, David Bowie and Adele have all graced the stage at one point in their careers. Consisting of four intimate halls, the venue has capacity for a variety of events and artists to perform, making for an eclectic evening.
Another venue that is just a twenty-minute bus south of Manchester Piccadilly station, you could be on your way to seeing the next world-famous act.
If you’re planning to go to Manchester, Edinburgh or elsewhere in the UK for a gig or even more, don’t forget to book Advance rail tickets via our website or the CrossCountry app. Before you travel, make sure to check scheduled train times to find the best journey for you. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
Written by Julia