Ten of Manchester's Finest Live Music Venues

With the likes of Oasis, The Smiths, Joy Division and many, many more iconic acts hailing from this city, it’s no surprise that Manchester’s music scene is renowned across the world. As such, here are ten leading music venues in Manchester:

O2 Apollo Manchester

A historic art deco venue with a capacity of over 3,500, hosting major international artists across all genres.

Albert Hall

A beautifully restored Grade II-listed chapel offering a stunning backdrop for live gigs, club nights, and special events.

Band on the Wall

A legendary venue in the Northern Quarter, known for hosting diverse musical acts and supporting up-and-coming artists.

The Deaf Institute

A quirky venue with vintage decor, great acoustics, and a reputation for indie, alternative, and electronic music.

Manchester Academy

A complex of four venues on the University of Manchester campus, accommodating everything from intimate gigs to large concerts.

YES

A trendy four-story venue with a basement for live gigs, a pink room for club nights, and a rooftop terrace for casual drinks.

Night & Day Café

A Northern Quarter institution that has supported grassroots and independent music for decades, featuring live performances daily.

Gorilla

A mid-sized venue under railway arches, known for its great atmosphere, strong bookings, and intimate yet lively gigs.

New Century

A revived 1960s venue with state-of-the-art sound and lighting, blending nostalgia with a modern live music experience.

The Blues Kitchen

A vibrant venue combining live blues, jazz, and soul music with great food and a lively atmosphere.