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The Ultimate Visitor’s Guide to Bridgewater Hall
Bridgewater Hall’s where it’s at if you’re after a proper night of tunes in Manchester. This place isn’t just another spot on the map—it’s where music gets real loud and proud, right in the heart of our city.
In this guide, we’re taking you through the ropes, showing you when to drop by and how to make the most of it. Let’s go!
Best Time To Visit
Bridgewater Hall shines throughout the year, but for the best experience, aim to visit during the concert season, which runs from September to June. This period is packed with a diverse range of performances, from classical music to contemporary shows.
Things to Know
Address: Bridgewater Hall, Lower Mosley Street, Manchester, M2 3WS, United Kingdom
Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP)
(Check the current exchange rate)
Language: English
Calling Code: +44
Fee: A booking fee of £3 or £4 per ticket applies to telephone and online transactions.
How to Get There
By Train: The nearest train station is Manchester Oxford Road, located just a 5-minute walk away. Manchester Piccadilly Station, about a 10-minute walk from Bridgewater Hall, offers broader connections, including national routes.
By Tram: The St. Peter’s Square tram stop, accessible by several tram lines, is conveniently located a short walk from the venue, integrating well with the city’s wider Metrolink network.
By Bus: Multiple bus routes service the area around Bridgewater Hall. The free city bus services are particularly useful for navigating the city centre and reaching the venue easily.
By Bike: For those preferring to cycle, Manchester’s growing network of bike lanes and bike-sharing schemes provides an environmentally friendly way to visit. Secure bike parking spots are available near Bridgewater Hall.
By Car: Driving to Bridgewater Hall is possible, and while there are limited parking spaces directly at the venue, several NCP car parks are located nearby.
However, due to the busy nature of Manchester city centre and limited on-street parking, public transport is recommended for convenience and to avoid parking difficulties.
Where to Stay in Bridge Hall Manchester
Kimpton Clocktower Hotel
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Address: Oxford St, Manchester M60 7HA, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 161 288 1111
Pricing: $$$
Stepping into the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel is like being whisked away to a world where luxury meets history. Its grand Victorian architecture houses a modern sanctuary of comfort, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Bridgewater Hall.
Imagine yourself sipping a cocktail in the Refuge by Volta, a vibrant bar and restaurant within the hotel, after a mesmerising performance. The Kimpton Clocktower doesn’t just offer a stay; it promises an experience that’s as unforgettable as the shows at Bridgewater Hall.
With plush rooms and bespoke service, it’s a haven for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel
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Address: 7-11 Lower Mosley St, Manchester M2 3DW, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 871 527 8742
Pricing: $
Right on the doorstep of Bridgewater Hall, the Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel is your go-to for convenience and comfort. Picture returning from an evening of splendid music to a room that promises a good night’s sleep, without the need to navigate Manchester’s bustle.
The Premier Inn offers more than just proximity; it’s an invitation to explore Manchester with ease, thanks to its central location.
Whether you’re here for the Hall or to discover the city’s many gems, this hotel serves as a perfect base camp, combining affordability with a warm welcome.
INNSiDE by Meliá Manchester
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Address: 1 First St, Manchester M15 4RP, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 161 200 2500
Pricing: $$
For those who seek a blend of modern chic and comfort, INNSiDE by Meliá Manchester is a revelation. Located within the cosmopolitan First Street area, it’s a short, scenic walk from Bridgewater Hall.
After a night of auditory bliss, come back to unwind in a space that’s been designed with your well-being in mind. From the serene rooms to the lively street-side restaurant and bar, INNSiDE offers a unique stay that caters to both your rest and your zest for life.
Hilton Manchester Deansgate
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Address: 303 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4LQ, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 161 870 1600
Pricing: $$$
Occupying a prime spot in one of Manchester’s most recognizable skyscrapers, the Hilton Manchester Deansgate offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, with Bridgewater Hall just a heartbeat away.
Start your evening with a dinner in the sky at Cloud 23, the hotel’s exclusive bar, before heading to a performance. The rooms here are a blend of sophistication and comfort, providing the perfect urban retreat.
For those who love the finer details and a room with a view, the Hilton Manchester Deansgate is a match made in heaven.
The Alan Manchester
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Address: 18-22 Bridge St, Manchester M3 3BZ, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 161 359 5550
Pricing: $$
The Alan Manchester is not just a hotel; it’s a statement of style and a nod to the creative soul of the city. Located in the heart of Manchester, this boutique hotel offers a unique stay experience, mere moments from Bridgewater Hall.
Each room is a masterpiece of design, offering a cosy, inspiring retreat after a night of music and magic. The Alan’s café and bar buzz with the energy of locals and visitors alike, making it a perfect spot to muse over the evening’s performance.
For those who seek a blend of art, comfort, and connectivity, The Alan stands out as Manchester’s vibrant spirit.
Where to Eat in Bridgewater Hall
Don Giovanni – Italian Restaurant Manchester
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Address: Peter House, 1 Oxford St, Manchester M1 5AN, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 161 228 2482
Pricing: $$
Don Giovanni is where you go to make your taste buds sing arias of appreciation. Trust me, this place has more Italian flair than a Vespa parade in Rome. With a vibe that’s as authentic as Nonna’s cooking, it’s the go-to for a carb fix that doesn’t disappoint.
The pasta here? Crafted with the kind of passion that might just make you tear up a bit. And the ambiance is like stepping into a little piece of Italy, minus the flight.
Order the carbonara and thank us later—it’s a plate of heaven that’ll make you forget every other carbonara you’ve had.
Don Marco
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Address: 1-3, Campfield Avenue Arcade, Manchester M3 4FH, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 161 831 9130
Pricing: $$
Stumble into Don Marco and you’ll find yourself in a love affair with Italian cuisine. This place doesn’t just serve food; it serves slices of Italian heaven, garnished with a side of charm. The vibe here? Imagine if Italy gave Manchester a bear hug—that’s Don Marco.
Their pizza is the kind that could easily cause a family feud over the last slice. And let’s not even get started on the tiramisu—it’s like your taste buds are floating on clouds made of coffee and mascarpone.
WOOD Manchester by Simon Wood
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Address: Jack Rosenthal Street, Manchester M15 4RA, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 161 236 5211
Pricing: $$$
Enter WOOD Manchester and brace yourself for a culinary symphony led by maestro Simon Wood. This isn’t just dining; it’s a multisensory spectacle where each dish plays its part in a gastronomic opera.
The décor? Imagine chic met cosy and they decided to start a life together. Here, every bite is a revelation, every dish tells a story, and if you’re lucky, Simon might just be the narrator.
Opt for the tasting menu—it’s less like eating and more like embarking on a flavorful odyssey. Simon Wood doesn’t just cook; he composes flavours, and trust me, you’ll want an encore.
Slap & Pickle Burgers – Society Manchester
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Address: 100 Barbirolli Square, Manchester M2 3AB, United Kingdom
Pricing: $
If burgers had a royal family, Slap & Pickle would be sitting on the throne, wearing a crown of pickles and slapping away any notions of fast food mediocrity. This isn’t just a burger joint; it’s a rebel base for the hungry, where each bite fights the good fight against bland burgers.
The vibe? It’s like your cool, edgy friend who knows all the best spots. Their secret weapon? A combination of juicy, perfectly cooked patties and creative, mouth-watering toppings that make each burger a masterpiece.
Warning: may cause spontaneous declarations of love for burgers.
Gusto Italian
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Address: 4 Lloyd St, Manchester M2 5AB, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 161 832 2866
Pricing: $$
Gusto Italian is where sophistication and comfort food have a delicious baby. This place doesn’t just serve Italian cuisine; it elevates it, giving classic dishes a modern twist that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Walking in is like getting a warm hug from Italy itself, with an ambiance that whispers sweet nothings of “eat, love, eat some more.” Their pasta dishes? Each forkful is like a love letter from the chef to your stomach.
And the cocktails? They’re not drinks; they’re liquid serenades. Prepare for an evening where Italian elegance meets Manchester cool.
What to Do in Bridgewater Hall Manchester
Catch a world-class performance
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Stepping into Bridgewater Hall, you’re not just going to a concert; you’re diving headfirst into a sea of sound that’ll knock your socks off. This place is the crème de la crème of music venues in Manchester, where every note is so crisp, you’d swear it’s HD for your ears.
From the spine-tingling orchestras to bands that get your heart racing faster than a brew on a cold morning, it’s all here. Gear up for an evening where music isn’t just heard; it’s felt, right in the chest.
Don’t say we didn’t warn ya, it’s downright electrifying.
Take a tour and appreciate the architecture
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Ever fancy a nosy behind the scenes? Well, Bridgewater Hall’s got you covered with tours that’ll have you gawping like a tourist. It’s not just about peeking backstage; it’s a full-on expedition into the heart of one of Manchester’s architectural marvels.
You’ll get to see where the magic happens and learn a bit about the place’s history – it’s like stepping into a different world, where every corridor has a story and every room’s got a secret.
Plus, you get to stand on the stage and look out, imagining the applause of thousands – proper bucket list stuff, that.
Workshop your way into the music
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Fancy getting your hands dirty with a bit of music-making yourself? Bridgewater Hall isn’t just about watching others have all the fun; they’ve got workshops and masterclasses that’ll have you unleashing your inner Mozart (or Gallagher, if that’s more your speed).
It’s a chance to rub elbows with the pros and learn a trick or two, whether you’re all about the strings or the keys. Who knows? You might just walk out with a new passion or at least a story about that one time you tried to conduct and nearly took someone’s eye out.
All in good fun, mind.
Dive into the classical lunchtime concerts
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Bridgewater Hall’s not just an evening affair; it’s also home to some of the most serene lunchtime classical concerts you’ll find in Manchester.
Picture this: swapping out your usual lunch break for a bit of Brahms or Bach, letting the world-class acoustics wash over you like a soothing bath. It’s the perfect pit-stop to break up a hectic day, and let’s face it, beats a soggy sandwich in the office any day of the week.
Bring a mate, or just come to lose yourself in the music. It’s a recharge like no other.
Immerse in a jazz night that swing
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Now, if you’re more about syncopation and improvisation, Bridgewater Hall’s jazz nights are where it’s at. These evenings are a blast, featuring talents from around the globe that’ll have your toes tapping and your soul swinging.
There’s something about jazz in a venue like this that feels just right – like it’s the music the place was made for, even when it’s bouncing off the walls with energy. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or just jazz-curious, it’s a night out that promises good vibes and great tunes.
Engage in pre-show talks
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For the thinkers and the wanderers, Bridgewater Hall often hosts pre-show talks that give you a peek behind the curtain of the night’s performance.
These aren’t your dry, lecture-style talks; they’re engaging, eye-opening discussions that’ll deepen your appreciation of what you’re about to hear. Imagine getting the backstory on a piece directly from the conductor or a soloist, then hearing it live.
It turns a beautiful performance into an unforgettable experience, adding layers of meaning to every note played.
Revel in the open rehearsals
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Ever wonder how a polished performance at Bridgewater Hall comes to life? Get yourself into one of the open rehearsals. It’s like having a backstage pass to the creative process.
You’ll see the sweat, the tweaks, and maybe even a bit of the banter that goes into making music that’s nothing short of brilliant. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s ruddy and fascinating. Plus, it’s a bit of a cheeky sneak peek at the show before anyone else gets to see it.
Attend during a seasonal celebration that light up the hall
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Bridgewater Hall knows how to throw a seasonal bash. From Christmas concerts that’ll have you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside, to summer spectacles that bring the sun indoors with music, these seasonal do’s are not to be missed.
Each celebration is packed with performances that showcase the best of the season, turning Bridgewater Hall into Manchester’s beating heart of festive cheer. So, if you’re looking for a place where the spirit of the season is alive and kicking, you know where to head.
Join the late-night sessions
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For the night owls and the music lovers who just don’t want the evening to end, Bridgewater Hall’s late-night sessions are an absolute gem.
Picture this: the main performance has just ended, the crowd’s buzzing, and then you’re swept into an intimate gig with a glass of something nice in hand. It’s more relaxed, a bit more personal, and a fantastic way to discover new sounds or just keep the vibe going.
These sessions turn Bridgewater Hall into Manchester’s coolest late-night spot, no contest.
Catch a show with a drag legend
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Alright, love. So, Bridgewater Hall’s got more going on than just your classic tunes; they’re serving up some proper dazzling drag shows that’ll knock your socks off. We’re talking full-on glitz, glam, and the kind of sass that only a drag legend can bring to the stage.
These nights are an absolute riot, a real celebration of art, heart, and a bit of cheek. It’s like nothing else – where else are you gonna see such fabulousness and fierce talent under one roof? Don’t miss out, it’s a belter of a time.
Join the monthly ‘Be Hear Now’ session.
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So, you fancy something a bit different, yeah? Check out the ‘Be Hear Now’ sessions down at Bridgewater. Once a month, they throw open the doors for a night of tunes that’ll take you on a proper journey. Jazz, blues, a bit of electronica – it’s all on the table.
It’s a class for finding new sounds or just kicking back with something unexpected. Great spot for a date, or just to chill with your mates. Trust us, it’s mint; you’ll walk out feeling like you’ve discovered your new favourite artist.
Have a nose around with a guided tour
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Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at Bridgewater Hall? Grab yourself a spot on one of their guided tours. It’s a cracking way to spend an hour or so – they’ll take you all over, even to the bits you don’t usually see.
You get to learn about how the place came to be, all the ins and outs of those fancy acoustics, and if you’re lucky, you might even get to stand on the stage. Picture that for your Insta, eh?
It’s a good laugh and you’ll come away with a few stories to tell. Plus, you’ll look dead smart next time you’re there for a show.
