Music and nightlife
A city steeped in music heritage, offering a unique nightlife experience.
Music and nightlife
Manchester’s contribution to music has been at the forefront of British culture for decades, so it’s no surprise we’ve still got a thriving music scene. From some of the largest arenas in the country to the coolest independent venues, you’ll find music to suit any taste.
When it comes to socialising, Manchester’s plethora of bars and nightclubs caters to all. From late-night revellers to casual hangouts with friends, finding your perfect night out will be easy.
Live music
Major venues
- AO Arena – where you’ll find the biggest international performers
- 02 Apollo – well-known nightclub and live music venue
- Albert Hall – historic building with a thriving music scene
- Bridgewater Hall – iconic venue for music concerts of all genres
- Castlefield Bowl – terraced outdoor venue that has hosted some of the city’s most famous residents
Independent venues
- Gorilla – a go-to for its popular gigs and buzzing music scene
- Deaf Institute – trendy bar for the latest gigs, located just off our campus
- Soup Kitchen – intimate venue for up and coming bands and DJs
- Victoria Warehouse – a unique setting with plenty of capacity for larger gigs
Going out
The Warehouse Project
Manchester born and bred, The Warehouse Project hosts some of the city’s biggest club nights. Based in the disused Mayfield Train Station Depot, this is a clubbing experience like no other.
Printworks
A popular city destination with cinemas, restaurants and high street bar chains. Even better – it’s all under one roof.
FAC251
The reincarnation of the legendary Factory Records office. Once the epicentre of Manchester’s music scene, now a nightclub playing everything from classic indie to drum ‘n’ bass.
Northern Quarter
Laid back and unreservedly cool, the Northern Quarter is the place for bohemian bars and unique restaurants. Here you’ll find watering holes hidden down alleyways and flights of stairs, all offering the very best craft ales and locally sourced spirits.
Deansgate Locks
Trendy and upmarket bars make this area a popular nightlife area. It needn’t be out of a students’ budget though – if you venture along Deansgate into the city centre you’ll find plenty of national chains and laid back pubs.
Gay Village
Found on Manchester’s famous Canal Street, Gay Village is much more than the home of Manchester Pride. With an array of fun and quirky bars, it’s home to some of the city’s liveliest nightlife.
Historic pubs
Manchester’s history is on display in several pubs throughout the city. Try Britons Protection, which has served locals since 1806, or the Peveril of the Peak, which is said to have the UK’s oldest continuously used pub football table.
In the city centre, The Seven Oaks gives Manchester a piece of iconic historical architecture.
Close to campus
Our campus has plenty of nearby pubs and bars offering a buzzing social scene.
Look out for:
- The Salutation – our very own pub on campus
- YES - four floors hosting the latest bands and a pizza oven, visit 12pm-6pm for a half-price slice
- Sandbar – laid back pub with plenty of live music
- Hatch – quirky pop-up bars inside renovated shipping containers, perfect for a pint