Manchester

Did you know...?

1) The infamous Sex Pistols show at the Free Trade Hall was notoriously only seen by a handful of people but amongst them were the future members of Joy Division, Mick Hucknell from Simply Red, as well as Tony Wilson, the infamous founder of Factory Records and the Hacienda -  and subject of the recent film 24 Hour Party People.

2) The Smiths cover photo for the back of the classic The Queen is Dead album was taken outside the front of Salford Lad’s Club on Coronation Street, though no relation to the popular TV soap.

3) Justin Timberlake caused shopping chaos last year in Manchester’s city centre when the pop star  decided he wanted to buy some cool new trainers.

4) The Chemical Brothers formed at Manchester University in 1988 and here they developed their world famous DJing styles. 

5) Ian Brown of local legends the Stone Roses and a proud Mancunian, famously said 'Manchester's got everything except a beach...'

Best places to see big bands

Carling Apollo

This venue has seen countless bands and comedians through its doors over the years, including greats like The Beatles, Queen, Prince, as well as popular comedians like Billy Connolly and local legend Peter Kay. Stockport Road, Ardwick Green. >> Find out more

Manchester Evening News Arena

A huge state-of-the-art venue used for sporting events, and hosting a versatile range of world-famous sounds from Eminem to Pavarotti to Robbie Williams, and the stage for Morrissey’s recent homecoming concert. Victoria Station. >> Find out more (www.men-arena.com)

Best places to see the bands of the moment

Manchester Academy

A long and proud tradition of gigs by the band of the moment.  Part of Manchester University’s campus, an NME tour regular venue and student-priced drinks. Oxford Road. >> Find out more

The Roadhouse

The Roadhouse has survived beyond other places like The Hacienda and for good reason. The former stomping ground for local legends like Oasis and The Verve, there’s a lot of history in these walls.
8 Newton Street. >> Find out more (www.theroadhouse.u-net.com/)

Best places to see the next big things

Night and Day

This place is a real gem in the city’s music scene. A café and bar, and it has hosted some amazing, intimate gigs by big stars like Badly Drawn Boy - who recently treated a close crowd to a preview of new songs - as well as a host of exciting up-and-coming bands. 26 Oldham Street. >> Find out more

Hip hangouts

Temple of Convenience

Quirky and intimate bar with great music and very popular, considering it used to be a public toilet. Great Bridgewater Street.

Fab Café

A crazy mix of quirky movie and science fiction memorabilia as well as great cheesy 80’s music all help make this place fab; even Johnny Depp thinks so. Portland Street.

Best clubs to rock out, move and groove

Smile @ Star & Garter

A very popular club night with the Manchester student crowd and an excellent range of quirky, cheesy and rockin' music to get your body moving. 18-20 Fairfield Street. >> Find out more (www.starandgarter.co.uk)

5th Avenue

Incredibly cheap drink promotions + cracking Indie music = a great night out. 121 Princess Street. >> Find out more

Best record shops

Piccadilly Records

A treasure trove for music lovers. Punk, dance, rock, funk, electronica and loads more, and an essential part of the Manchester music scene. 53 Oldham Street. >> Find out more (www.piccadillyrecords.co.uk)

Vinyl Exchange

Many people have come in for a quick browse and come out 3 hours later. Two floors crammed with a diverse mix of music delights. 18 Oldham Street. >> Find out more

Find out more about Manchester.