9 Music Venues that continue to shape the Music Scene in Greater Manchester

Many artists have hailed from Greater Manchester – Morrissey, the Happy Mondays, and Blossoms are just some of the icons that grew up in the boroughs that form the city region. No wonder then that there are some great spots to enjoy a music-packed evening, if you’re looking to discover even more of Greater Manchester’s music scene, hop on a tram, train, or bus out of the city centre, and follow our guide to some of the best music venues the region has to offer: 

Bolton 

Dating back to 1873, the Albert Halls in Bolton is a 637-capacity entertainment venue located in the town centre. Since 2017, after a devastating fire some 30 years before, the Halls continue to serve as a cultural centre for the community, with regular live events for the whole family. 

Bury  

This award-winning venue was the stage of one of Joy Division’s last performances, the infamous night known as ‘The Derby Hall riot’. Nowadays at The Met, you’ll find a dedicated folk music programme that has been recognised nationally, along with a packed schedule of theatre and comedy shows. 

Oldham 

Aiming to support the next generation of creatives in Saddleworth, the Millgate Arts Centre is an active arts community dedicated to bringing the best live entertainment to the venue. The historical venue hosts concerts, plays, and is home to a local amateur theatre group. 

Rochdale 

Middleton Arena is an all-rounded multi-purpose venue, with a 500-seat auditorium serving Rochdale with a full entertainment programme, from comedy shows, to tribute acts and musical productions, there is surely something for all ages. 

Stockport 

Opened in 1932, the stunning art deco building that is The Plaza has stood the test of time as one of the major cultural hubs for Stockport. The Grade II* listed building still trades as a cinema and variety theatre, hosting concerts, plays, comedy shows, and of course, screenings of classic films.  

Tameside  

From a former textile mill to now a state-of-the-art entertainment venue, The Vale has become the heart of the creative community is Mossley. Alongside gigs from up-and-coming artists, they also host dance and music classes, craft workshops, theatre and film screenings. 

Trafford  

A short tram-ride out of the city centre, O2 Victoria Warehouse has become an essential stop for rising and established artists touring the UK – the extensive list includes Lizzo, Sam Fender and The Courteeners. With a capacity of 3,500 for the main concert space, Victoria Warehouse also hosts exhibitions and sporting events. 

Wigan 

The Old Courts is a multi-arts venue housed in a 19th century building that aims to inspire Wigan by investing in its creative community. With open-mic poetry nights, intimate live gigs and networking events, there’s plenty to get involved in. 

Salford 

The Who, Paul McCartney and U2 were some of the legendary artists that have graced the stage of Maxwell Hall. Hosting gigs since 1964, the venue opened its doors to live music performances for the first time in 10 years in 2024 for the Sounds of the Other City festival.