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Manchester Gig Venue Guide
As you would expect from a city that has produced so many musical greats, Manchester has a number of iconic gig venues. From independent bars to the home of several world-renowned orchestras, take a look through our A to Z of venues and plan your stay with us, for a perfect night out in Manchester.Ardwick02 ApolloBefore The Smiths, Joy Division and so many other prolific bands came The Beatles. The Fab Four played a historic concert at the then ABC Cinema in 1963. Decades later and the 3500-seater concert hall is still popular among major acts, with Elbow playing a run of three shows on April 1, 3 and 4. Stockport Rd, M12 6APBeswickThe Etihad StadiumSpeak to the blue half of the city and they will tell you the Etihad Stadium is the jewel in Manchester’s crown. When it comes to music, they may have a point. Over the years, Manchester City Football Club’s home has held concerts from Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Oasis, Taylor Swift and, more recently, the Spice Girls. Ashton New Rd, M11 3FFCastlefieldCastlefield BowlThe Castlefield Bowl is unlike the other venues on this list in that it is outdoors. A Roman amphitheatre, the extraordinary landmark comes alive during the summer months with a series of major concerts. Past years have seen Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbott, CHIC and Nile Rodgers and Haçienda Classical.Rice St, M3 4JRDeansgateAlbert HallAn extensive refurbishment project led to the Albert Hall’s reopening in 2014. Years later and the Grade II listed building is one of Manchester’s premier venues, hosting everyone from Johnny Marr to Primal Scream, with Kelis (March 16) and Goldfrapp (March 25) booked for 2020.27 Peter St, City Centre, M2 5QRThe Bridgewater HallSince opening in 1996, the Bridgewater Hall has staged over 20 years of concerts, including tributes to Hans Zimmer and Gershwin. A renowned name in classical music, it is home to the BBC Philharmonic, Manchester Camerata and Hallé orchestras. Outside of classical music, 2020 will see greats like George Benson (June 21) and Status Quo (October 6). Lower Mosley St, M2 3WSNorthern QuarterBand on the WallAward-winning and historic, Band on the Wall had a revered reputation for jazz, folk and blues long before Buzzcocks and The Fall played there. Nowadays Band on the Wall has an eclectic roster of acts, including world music stars, acclaimed singer-songwriters and local DJs like Mr Scruff.27 Swan St, M4 5JZMatt & Phreds Jazz ClubDimly lit, intimate and hidden, Matt & Phreds is everything you could want from a city centre jazz haunt. M&P is famous on the music circuit, and it is not uncommon for acts who play there to become acclaimed stars — Jamie Cullum, who played there in 2009, is just one name that springs to mind.64 Tib St, M4 1LWOxford RoadManchester AcademyLocated on the University of Manchester campus, the Manchester Academy is another famed city centre venue and just a 10-minute taxi ride from The Midland. In years gone by, rock and pop acts like Courtney Love, Liam Gallagher and even Prince have played here. In 2020, Roy Ayers (April 2020), Peter Hook (May 16) and Jimmy Eat World (July 20) will join them. Moss Ln E, M14 4PX02 Ritz ManchesterHappy Mondays, The Stone Roses, The Smiths. The list of Manchester legends that have played the 02 Ritz goes on. The Grade II listed building, which is only a short walk from The Midland, still attracts queues that stretch around the block. And while indie bands are the mode – Lightning Seeds (March 28) and The Pigeon Detectives (May 15) – legends and pop acts like WAR (June 12) and Louise Redknapp (March 19) still make an appearance on the 02’s calendar. Whitworth St W, M1 5NQYESYES, which is located on Charles Street near Oxford Road, is where you will find The Pink Room – a purpose-built gig space located within the four storey bar. And it is this Pink Room that makes YES a contender for the brightest venue in Manchester. Admittedly you are more likely to see new bands and DJs here, although the space often holds after parties for bigger shows.38 Charles St, M1 7DBSalford Quays02 Victoria WarehouseAs its name suggests, the 02 Victoria Warehouse started life as just that. It wasn’t until 2012 that the warehouse was transformed and reopened as a music venue. And while the Victoria Warehouse is a latecomer, it has made up the time with Blossoms, Bastille and Vampire Weekend previously playing here. 2020 will see much of the same calibre of acts, with Britpop legends Supergrass (February 26) and Radiohead’s Thom Yorke (June 20).Trafford Wharf Rd, Stretford, M17 1ABVictoriaManchester ArenaPerhaps the most famous of Manchester’s music venues, the Manchester Arena has been a key part of the city’s fabric since it opened in 1995. It has held Olympic competitions, Commonwealth Games and concerts from music’s biggest superstars. Everyone from Noel Gallagher to Beyoncé has played here, and it remains the second largest arena in the EU with a 21,000 capacity. In 2020, Lana Del Rey (February 26), Michael Ball & Alfie Boe (February 27), Stereophonics (March 13), The Who (March 16), Gregory Porter (May 9), Diana Ross (July 3), Simply Red (October 17) and Elton John (November 17/28) will play the Manchester Arena, setting the marker for another historic year of music.Victoria Station Approach, Hunts Bank, Manchester M3 1ARStaying at The MidlandBookending your concert or gig with a serene stay at The Midland will guarantee you a memorable stopover in Manchester. Dine with us at Mr Cooper’s Restaurant and Bar or The French, and unwind the next day at the Rena Spa. However you choose to spend your visit, getting around will not be a problem, thanks to The Midland’s central location. We’re opposite the Albert Hall and a short walk or taxi ride from many of the venues on this list.
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The Midland Manchester Christmas Markets Guide
There’s no better way to enter into the festive spirit than by visiting the long-awaited Manchester Christmas Markets. Each year - usually from mid-November to late December – over 300 (and counting!) wooden stalls throw open their shutters to serve an eclectic mix of mulled wine, flavoured meats, melt-in-the-mouth cheeses, gifts and good tidings all round.Stroll through the city centre towards the end of the year and, chances are, you’ll end up wandering into a charming winter wonderland, complete with wooden nutcrackers, snow-dusted Santas and a whole lotta Christmas cheer. But what if this winter is your first time at Manchester Christmas Markets? In this useful guide, we have all the advice you need to kick back, relax, and enjoy the festivities, stress-free.Manchester Christmas Markets Opening HoursThe Manchester Christmas Markets get bigger each year and span right across the city centre. This means that the opening hours for each group of stalls tends to vary, but the main markets at Albert Square usually run from 10am to 9pm every day.Manchester Christmas Markets LocationsThere are stalls set up all over the city centre. These are the main locations:Albert Square: This is the main Christmas market in Manchester. Overlooked by a now-iconic giant Santa Clause, this is where you’ll find the most stalls in one place, as well as a variety of large bars and places to grab a bite. If you’re looking for the ultimate Manchester Christmas market experience, this is it.Cathedral Gardens: No Christmas market would be complete without an ice rink, and the Cathedral Gardens market does not disappoint. Dubbed Manchester’s ‘Ice Village’, Cathedral Gardens also plays host to an ice cavern, Santa’s Grotto, and an ice tiki bar.Market Street: While not as large as Albert’s Square or Cathedral Gardens, the Market Street Christmas markets are a magical place to pop in for a unique gift if you’re shopping in the Arndale.Exchange Square / Corn Exchange: If you exit the Arndale Centre at the entrance by Next, you’ll come across the Exchange Square / Corn Exchange markets. These tend to be more craft-based than the others, with stalls selling a range of unique handmade festive gifts (perfect for picking up some stocking fillers).Exchange Street / New Cathedral Street: Flavoured vodkas, luxury soaps, and magical trinkets are just some of the presents you can buy at the Exchange / New Cathedral Street markets.King Street: If you’re in the mood to sample some festive food, a visit to the King Street markets is a must. Satisfy your palette with a selection of the finest Italian cheeses, cured meats, mouth-watering macaroons, and more crepes than you can shake a pot of chocolate spread at.St Anne’s Square: For more foodie fun, head to St Anne’s Square. This eclectic mix of food and gift stalls is perfect for perusing with the whole family.Brazennose Street: Lesser known than their neighbour, Albert’s Square, the Brazennose Street markets are a great place to enjoy a bite to eat – away from the hustle and bustle of the main event. We recommend trying some of the traditional foods you’ll find here, including goulash and schnitzel.Tips for visiting the Manchester Christmas MarketsFollow these useful tips to get the most from your visit to the markets:Get cash out before you arrive. Many of the stalls (especially the lesser-known venders) only accept cash, so it’s best to visit an ATM before you arrive at the markets, as there aren’t any on-site.Don’t forget you’ll need a deposit for a mug. It’s only a couple of pounds, and you can choose to either take it back to the stall and get your deposit back or keep it as a souvenir.Try your hand at haggling. Many stalls are open to negotiations on price, and you might even get yourself a bargain! If bargain-hunting is top of your list, we recommend waiting until the last few days before the markets close, as many stalls offer discounts before they close.Talk to people. The market traders at the Manchester Christmas Markets have travelled from all over the world, selling their wares. Strike up a conversation whilst browsing the stalls and you could hear a plethora of weird and wonderful tales.Go on a weekday. The markets get super-busy over the weekends, as people travel from far and wide to experience those famous stalls. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the week.Wander through the city. The Manchester Christmas Markets have so much to offer, and you can see so much more if you don’t confide yourself to Albert Square. Take a stroll through the rest of the city centre and discover a different side to the festivities.Where to go ice skating in Manchester City CentreDreaming of donning your skates and heading onto the ice this winter? There are lots of places to go ice skating in Manchester city centre. Aside from the obvious ice village in cathedral gardens, there’s also an ice rink on First Street, complete with seal and penguin skating help for the kids. Happy skating!Where to stay at the Manchester Christmas MarketsSearching for the perfect place to stay during your visit to the Manchester Christmas Markets? Look no further than The Midland. For over 115 years, The Midland has been an iconic part of the city, and has 312 comfortable guestrooms so you can unwind in style after a long day of festive beer and cheer.
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The UK's Favourite Afternoon Tea
Steeped in British history, the Afternoon Tea has become a common place at restaurants, hotels and tea rooms across the UK. Originating as a mini meal to keep people going between lunch and dinner it now takes many forms with new twists on the classic sandwiches and cakes offering to include modern additions such as burgers, alcohol and sweet local delicacies.But what makes up the perfect Afternoon Tea? Surveying 1364 aficionados we sought to find out just what the nation wants.What Makes A Top Tier Afternoon Tea?Kicking off our Afternoon Tea we have a serving of savoury delights, but what ranks best on our list? Egg-based sandwiches are top choice, with egg mayonnaise and egg and cress both chosen as must-have fillings by 37% of respondents, followed by roast beef and smoked salmon.Now for those with a sweeter tooth lemon drizzle takes the top spot with over 53% of the vote, followed closely by strawberry tart, victoria sponge and lemon tart.Spilling the TeaAfternoon Tea would be nothing without a delicious beverage, but what ranks highest in our survey? Despite the miriade of teas now available, Breakfast Tea still takes the top spot with 39% of the vote, followed by Prosecco and Earl Grey. Despite the growing popularity of Prosecco with Afternoon Tea, we are still a nation of traditionalists with 11 of the top 15 drinks being non-alcoholic. The Great Scone DebateScones have traditionally always been an Afternoon Tea staple, making our top 15 sweets three times combined with jam, butter and strawberries! But, the biggest question about scones isn’t what you eat them with, it is how you pronounce the word. Is it scone as in bone, or scone as in gone?Taking the majority of the vote, much of the UK is in agreement that scone should rhyme with gone, but what was the split across the country? Is there a north/south divide? Here at The Midland we take pride in hosting the only setting dedicated and designed for Afternoon Tea in Manchester, ours is truly one of a kind. Feeling inspired? Looking for Manchester Hotel? Look no futher and book your stay today at The Midland Manchester.
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The Midland Manchester Events Guide
The UK’s ‘capital of the North’ has an eclectic selection of annual events spanning across the year. So no matter which month you choose to visit, chances are you’ll be able to enjoy one or more of the many Manchester events scattered across the city centre and beyond.Manchester International Festival Time after time, the Manchester International Festival continues to amaze and inspire. Every two years, thousands of people volunteer and take part in the festival, immersing revellers into a world of music, art, dance and debates, many of which divide opinions and challenge the status quo of 21st century Britain.Watch a show, take a creative development workshop, embark on a walking tour – however you choose to spend your time at the MIF, you’ll get the chance to see this mesmerising city from a new perspective.Manchester Film FestivalFilm buffs, rejoice! This one’s for you. The Manchester Film Festival is an annual motion picture extravaganza, a truly independent film festival that showcases some of the most exciting works in film. Featuring both local and international filmmakers, these short and feature-length films each spread their own message in the world of independent cinema.The Great Manchester RunThe Great Manchester Run takes place each year around mid-May and attracts more than 40,000 runners to the city’s streets. The run itself is split into two – a 10k and a half marathon – and goes through some of Manchester’s most iconic landmarks – Old Trafford, The Imperial War Museum, and the Coronation Street set – to name but a few.But it’s not just about the runners. Each year, thousands upon thousands of bystanders show up to show their support, bringing the city together in a flurry of flags, chatter and cheering. There’s also live music to keep everyone entertained throughout the day, regardless of whether you’ve decided to don your running shoes!Manchester Food and Drink FestivalManchester’s culinary expertise goes far beyond the classic meat pies and gravy. The Manchester Food and Drink Festival has been around since 1998, and each year attracts thousands of foodies, all eager to sample all the delicious delights the city has to offer.Usually organised for late September / early October, the festival takes place at various venues across Manchester, and has played an integral part of transforming the city’s dining scene. And if that isn’t enough, the festival has been attended by a generous sprinkling of famous faces over the years, including the likes of Gordon Ramsey, Jamie Oliver, and Fergus Henderson.Manchester Day FestivalOne of the newer festivals on this list, Manchester Day was created in 2010 and has since become one of the city’s most anticipated events of the summer. Each year, over 1,500 (and counting!) local artists and performers come together to put on a mesmerising parade that’s a real treat for the senses. Picture bright colours, vibrant costumes and beautiful music – all with a city centre backdrop.Want to get involved? The Manchester Day workshop opens six weeks prior to the festival itself; and is a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and create something magnificent.Manchester Science Festival Each year, over 130,000 visitors of all ages travel to Manchester City Centre for a celebration of all things science. But it’s far from just sitting in a classroom. The Museum of Science and Industry has a wealth of interactive exhibitions, created to immerse the whole family in the wonders of science.2018 saw the famous Black Hole exhibition take centre stage – visitors could step inside the event’s very own ‘black hole’, specially created with reflective walls and ceilings, as well as reflective light particles, to really feel like you’ve stepped out into deep space.Manchester Christmas MarketsAs the year begins to draw to a close, and the nights start drawing in, one-by-one stalls begin to appear in Manchester City Centre. The Manchester Christmas Markets have become an institution in recent years, with the grand opening in early November signalling that the official Christmas countdown has begun.Explore the range of stores selling delicious meats, cheeses, and of course a variety of different Christmas decorations and knickknacks. Fancy a tipple? The markets also have a huge selection of bars and drink stalls, so you can eat, drink, and be merry.Manchester Literature Festival Featuring talks and readings from some of the biggest names in literary fiction, both local and international, the Manchester Literature Festival is a reader’s paradise. Patrons of the festival include Kathy Burke, Simon Armitage, Margaret Attwood, and the former poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy.The Manchester Literature Festival 2019 promises to be every bit as enjoyable as its predecessors, with talks on various forms of fiction. There are also a range of walking tours taking place across the city, including the Listen to the Women tour, where walkers can celebrate female writers who were born and lived in the city.Discover more of Manchester by staying right in the heart of this fascinating metropolis. The Midland is an iconic hotel that’s right in the middle of all the action, with 312 relaxing rooms and suites, so you can get a good night’s rest, away from the hustle and bustle of the streets below.
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The Five Most Gorgeous Bridal Shops in Manchester
Planning your big day is a truly exciting time, especially if you’ve opted for a stunning venue like the Midland Hotel for your nuptials. Everyone will agree that finding ‘the dress’ is one of the bride’s most important – but often very tricky – tasks.Thankfully, there’s no need to travel all the way to the capital for your perfect frock as you’ll discover loads of wedding dress shops in Manchester City Centre catering to every taste and budget. From designer boutiques to quirky stores selling boho-chic ensembles, here’s our pick of the best bridal boutiques in the Northern Powerhouse. The White ClosetFound in tranquil West Didsbury, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d stepped into a chic Parisian boutique at The White Closet. The stylish bridal shop is known for its beautiful mix of gowns from both popular and independent brands like Charlie Brear, Anna-Kara and Halfpenny London.Whether you want a classic look or something that’ll stand out as you walk down the aisle, you’re bound to find it at The White Closet. What’s more, the store even serves up tea and cake while you search for your dream dress. Fairytale BridesAs its name suggests, Fairytale Brides is committed to ensuring every woman who comes through the door feels like a princess with its extensive wedding dress ranges. Admire racks of gorgeous gowns from the likes Justin Alexander, Martina Liana and Essence of Australia, and don’t forget to accessorise your look with a sparkling tiara or pretty veil.The wedding shop is based in Whitefield and its welcoming showroom features bright and spacious changing rooms with wall-to-wall mirrors so you can view your outfit from every angle. Stella’s Wedding DressesBased on Burton Road in West Didsbury, Stella’s Wedding Dresses is one of longest running wedding shops in Manchester. You’ll be in safe hands with its highly knowledgeable staff who always offer a friendly and utterly bespoke service to every bride-to-be.Stella’s Wedding Dresses has a huge range of classic and contemporary dresses for both brides and bridesmaids, including many spectacular plus sizes options. The Case of the Curious BrideThis quirkily named bridal shop in Manchester specialises in vintage-inspired and pre-loved retro wedding dresses that are each crafted to be as unique as their wearer. Based on Marsland Road in Sale, the charmingly decorated shop’s wonderful bridal collection varies from simple silk numbers to elegant lace gowns with affordable price tags.If you’re after some stunning embellishment, you’ll also find The Case of the Curious Bride sells hair accessories and handbags with intricate detailing and in timeless designs. Jean Jackson CoutureYou’ll need to head into the trendy Northern Quarter to view the utterly fabulous dresses at Jean Jackson Couture. The premium wedding dress shop in Manchester is all about championing the bohemian bride with exciting and current collections from unique designers like Anna Campbell and Rue de Seine.If you’d rather stay out of the hustle and bustle of the City Centre, you’ll even find a second Jean Jackson Couture in Urmston.
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The Most Relaxing Things to do in Manchester
Manchester’s a city that’s always got something going on, whether that’s a frenzied football match or an exciting festival. Nevertheless, there’s also myriad things to do if you’re keen to relax and unwind – especially if you choose to stay at The Midland Hotel. From treating yourself to a massage or sumptuous afternoon tea to exploring quiet gardens or peaceful spaces within minutes of the hotel, here are some of the most relaxing things to do in Manchester. Indulge yourself at a spaOne of the best ways to relax in the city has to be indulging yourself at one of its great spas. Check out our very own Midland Spa for calming treatments like massages and facials as well as top class facilities including our indoor pool, thermal suites and relaxation room. From one-off sessions to full day access that includes a nourishing lunch, you’ll find various spa options to suit your needs.Rena Spa at The Midland Hotel in Manchester is the ultimate destination for indulgent and relaxing spa days. Immerse yourself in a haven of tranquillity and rejuvenation as you escape the stresses of everyday life. Tuck into a relaxing afternoon teaThere are few things more relaxing than sitting back with a cup of tea and a tasty treat. Luckily, you’ll find endless options for afternoon tea in Manchester City Centre - including the decadent spread at our very own Tea Room.We’ve been serving up traditional afternoon tea treats since 1903, so why not join us for a feast of finger sandwiches, delicious pastries and freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam? If you’re in the city for a celebration, don’t miss our extra special Royal Afternoon Tea which includes a glass of fizzing champagne. Take a stroll around a city parkGet away from the hustle and bustle of the city’s streets by stealing a few moments for yourself in one of Manchester’s tiny inner-city parks. You’ll stumble upon St John’s Gardens, with its urban orchard and beautiful flower beds, only ten minutes from The Midland Hotel and just next to the Museum of Science and Industry.A little further up Deansgate is where you’ll find Cathedral Gardens with its landscaped lawns that are ideal for a picnic on a hot day. And if you fancy even more fresh air, the Peak District is only a 45-minute train journey from Manchester Piccadilly. Visit a creative spaceAfter quiet places in Manchester where you can go to recharge or seek inspiration? You’ll find plenty of creative spaces, from tiny libraries to elegant art galleries, in the Northern Powerhouse. Stroll around the permanent exhibits at Manchester Art Gallery or head into the stunning Manchester Central Library just across the road from The Midland Hotel to catch up on some reading. Sign up to a yoga classYoga is considered by many as one of the best ways to relax both your body and your mind. You’ll find endless places that offer classes in Manchester, including The Life Centre that’s only five minutes from The Midland Hotel. Book a beginner’s class or take your relaxation to new heights by opting for the evening candlelit yoga sessions.
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