Round up your pals and head out to the town for a drink and a boogie.
When it comes to music, Manchester does it best. Whether youâre after intimate gigs, stadium-sized concerts or even just a dance with your pint, the city centre is awash with venues hosting live performances, any day of the week.
Weâve rounded up the best places to go for a night out with live music in and around NOMA. Which one are you visiting first?
NOMAâs resident music venue reopened in 2022, but youâll find decades of history within its walls. Originally opened back in 1963, the venue has hosted legendary acts like Jimi Hendrix and The Kinks, and today boasts an eclectic lineup of indie and alternative artists. With vintage wood wall panelling, a sprung dancefloor and an illuminated ceiling, itâs one of the cityâs best music venues.
New Century, 34 Hanover Street, Manchester, M4 4AH.
Situated in the Northern Quarter, the Band on the Wall building dates back as far as 1862. It acquired its current name in the 1930s, when a stage was built on the far wall of the pub, where a regular band would play. Hosting everything from ticketed gigs to free funk nights, itâs a great place to go if youâre looking to expand your musical horizons.
A back street jazz club where you can watch live shows with a side of pizza? It can only be Matt and Phreds. The iconic music bar hosts live shows seven nights a week, so thereâs always something going on when you drop by. Head down for happy hour to get your hands on an ultra-tasty deal â a free pizza when you order two drinks. Grab a booth, cosy up, stay all night.
Matt and Phreds, 64 Tib Street, Manchester, M4 1LW.
Sitting pretty on Thomas Street, Terrace is a Northern Quarter staple. While it serves up a laidback vibe during the week, the volume gets turned up at weekends and you can expect the dancefloor to be packed until the early hours. If you want to get down to hip hop and R&B while sipping on craft beer and cocktails, this is the place to go.
Terrace, 43 Thomas Street, Manchester, M4 1NA.
If you want stadium-sized productions and big name acts, a trip to the AO Arena is in order. The 23,000-capacity venue has been wowing crowds for three decades now, with no signs of slowing down. From classic rock and metal to pop princesses, the star-studded lineup doesnât disappoint. Grab a drink at The Mezz beforehand for the ultimate night out.
AO Arena, Victoria Station Approach, Hunts Bank, Cheetham Hill, Manchester, M3 1AR.
Did you know thereâs a world-renowned classical music venue in the heart of Ancoats? HallĂŠ St Peterâs is the Manchester home of the legendary HallĂŠ orchestra, but you can check out the impressive space by visiting a live concert. Set within a former church building, you can expect high ceilings, elegant interiors and an atmosphere thatâs sure to give you goosebumps.
HallĂŠ St Peters, 40 Blossom Street, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 6BF.
Known for its beer steins and lively vibe, a visit to Albertâs Schloss is never a quiet night. Youâll find live music every night of the week, with a different theme each evening. From Back to Mein â where a special guest takes over and plays their personal collection â to Baby Grand Slam, where two pianists take endless requests, itâs big, bold and sure to get you grooving.
Albertâs Schloss, 27 Peter Street, Manchester, M2 5QR.
Set in a restored Wesleyan Chapel, Albert Hall is one of Manchesterâs most beautiful music venues. Whether itâs dancing on tables at Bongoâs Bingo, tapping your feet at an indie gig or two-stepping at a club night, thereâs something for all tastes. Expect excellent acoustics, great views and unforgettable productions. Keep an eye out for ghosts though, as itâs one of Manchesterâs most haunted spots.
Albert Hall, 27 Peter Street, Manchester, M2 5QR.
If youâre into killer cocktails, chicken wings and music thatâll have you singing along, Blues Kitchen is the place for you. The former Walkabout venue on Quay Street had a stunning makeover in 2021, and it definitely looks the part. Youâll find architectural quirks throughout, from stained glass windows and gospel ceilings to monkey-shaped light fittings. The best bit? Itâs free entry seven nights a week.
Blues Kitchen, 13 Quay Street, Manchester, M3 3HN.