Opera House Manchester
A historic Edwardian theatre in Manchester offering world-class musicals, opera, and vibrant cultural performances in an elegant setting.
The Opera House Manchester, located at 3 Quay Street, is one of the city’s premier theatres with a rich history dating back to 1912. With a seating capacity of approximately 1,920, it hosts a diverse range of performances including musicals, opera, comedy, and concerts. The venue boasts elegant Edwardian architecture, excellent acoustics, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a cultural landmark in Manchester’s arts scene.
A brief summary to Opera House Manchester
- 3 Quay St, Manchester, M3 3HP, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- For the best views, choose mid-front seats in the Stalls or mid-front of the Circle, especially for large-scale musicals.
- Gallery seats from Row C onwards offer clear views at a discounted price, though legroom may be limited.
- Arrive early to enjoy the Ambassador Lounge for a relaxed pre-show experience.
- Use the Delivered At Seat service to order drinks and snacks during the performance without missing any action.
- Designated wheelchair seating is available in the Circle, with carer seats nearby for support.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Tram
Take the Metrolink tram to St. Peter's Square, approximately a 7-minute walk from the Opera House. Trams run frequently with tickets costing around £3-£5 depending on the zone.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the city center with stops near Quay Street. Travel time varies from 15 to 30 minutes from most parts of Manchester, with fares typically £2-£4.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you directly at 3 Quay Street. Journey times from central Manchester are usually under 10 minutes, with fares around £5-£10 depending on traffic.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby in central Manchester, walking to the Opera House is easy and pleasant, taking 10 to 20 minutes on mostly flat, well-paved streets.
Opera House Manchester location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Opera House Manchester
Historical Legacy and Architectural Charm
The Opera House Manchester first opened its doors on Boxing Day in 1912 as The New Theatre. Over the decades, it has undergone several transformations, including a renaming in 1920 to its current title. During World War II, the venue served as a cinema, and later as a bingo hall, before reopening as a theatre in 1984. Its Edwardian design features classic architectural details that blend grandeur with intimacy, creating a timeless setting for live performances.Seating and Audience Experience
With a seating capacity of around 1,920, the theatre is divided into three main sections: the Stalls (approximately 830 seats), the Circle (about 552 seats), and the Gallery (around 533 seats). The Stalls offer some of the best views, especially in the mid-front rows, while the Circle and Gallery provide excellent sightlines with a steep rake ensuring clear views throughout. The Gallery, shaped in a horseshoe curve, offers discounted seats from Row C onwards with unobstructed views, although legroom can be limited. The venue also features bars adjacent to the Stalls and at the rear of the Gallery, along with conveniently located restrooms.Varied and Prestigious Programming
The Opera House is renowned for its eclectic program, hosting everything from West End musicals and opera to comedy shows and concerts. It is particularly famous for its annual Christmas pantomime, a family favorite. Recent and upcoming performances include international opera tours, dance spectacles, and acclaimed musical productions, reflecting the venue’s commitment to diverse and high-quality entertainment.Visitor Amenities and Special Experiences
Visitors can enhance their experience by accessing the Ambassador Lounge, an exclusive space to relax before shows and during intervals. The venue also offers a Delivered At Seat service, allowing patrons to order drinks and snacks without missing any part of the performance. The theatre’s box office opens 90 minutes prior to shows for in-person ticket purchases. Accessibility features include designated wheelchair seating in the Circle with adjacent carer seats.Location and Cultural Significance
Situated in the heart of Manchester’s city center, the Opera House is a cultural beacon and an architectural gem. It plays a vital role in the city’s vibrant arts scene, attracting both local audiences and visitors. Its proximity to public transport and other cultural venues makes it an integral part of Manchester’s entertainment district.Atmosphere and Audience Engagement
The Opera House Manchester offers an immersive and engaging atmosphere where the historic charm meets modern theatrical production. The acoustics and sightlines are carefully designed to ensure every seat provides a memorable experience. The venue’s lively ambiance, combined with its rich programming, makes it a must-visit for theatre lovers and cultural explorers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Free Trade Hall
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Mulberry Passage
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Dalton Entry
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Albert Memorial
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John Bright Statue
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A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Roman Gardens
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Discover Manchester’s Roman past through tranquil gardens featuring reconstructed fortifications and ancient pathways in the heart of Castlefield.
Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall
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Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
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A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Bahnhof Manchester
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Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.
Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort
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Explore the evocative remains of Mamucium’s eastern wall, a cornerstone of Manchester’s Roman heritage and ancient military might.
Manchester City Council
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Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Castlefield historical zone
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Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.
St. Peter's Square
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Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Rochdale Canal Lock 92
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Final lock on the historic Rochdale Canal, linking Manchester’s waterways and embodying two centuries of industrial heritage.
Canada House, Manchester
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Discover Canada House, a majestic Grade II listed cotton warehouse in Manchester, embodying the city’s rich industrial heritage and architectural splendor.
Unmissable attractions to see
Saint John's Gardens
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A serene urban oasis in Manchester preserving historic churchyard remnants and offering peaceful green space near Deansgate.
Great Northern
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A lively blend of historic charm and modern entertainment in Manchester’s premier shopping and leisure plaza.
Albert Hall, Manchester
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Historic Wesleyan chapel turned iconic music venue with stunning stained glass and vaulted ceilings in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
John Rylands Research Institute and Library
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A neo-Gothic architectural gem housing one of the UK’s largest rare book collections and a vibrant research institute in the heart of Manchester.
Alcotraz Manchester: Cell Block Three-Four
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Discover the thrilling cocktail experience at Alcotraz Manchester, where immersive storytelling meets masterful mixology in a unique prison-themed bar.
Science and Industry Museum
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Explore 250 years of innovation and industrial heritage at Manchester’s historic Science and Industry Museum, housed in the world’s oldest passenger railway station.
Abraham Lincoln Statue
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A powerful bronze tribute in Manchester honoring Abraham Lincoln and the city’s courageous support for abolition during the American Civil War.
People's History Museum
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Britain's national museum of democracy, celebrating radical stories of people fighting for a fairer world.
Upper Campfield Market Hall
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Historic Victorian market hall in Manchester’s Castlefield, now a vibrant artisan market and creative hub blending heritage with modern innovation.
Mural - Peterloo.
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A vivid street art mural in Manchester commemorating the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the enduring fight for democracy.
The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
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Dive into the ultimate immersive adventure inspired by the iconic 90s TV show, where teamwork and fun collide in Manchester’s thrilling Crystal Maze LIVE Experience.
St Mary's RC Church
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Discover St Mary's RC Church, Manchester's historic 'Hidden Gem' blending Victorian artistry and deep Catholic heritage since 1794.
Beetham Tower
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Manchester’s tallest skyscraper outside London, Beetham Tower combines luxury living, stunning views, and bold modern architecture in the heart of the city.
Castlefield Urban Heritage Park
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Explore Manchester’s historic heart where Roman ruins, scenic canals, and vibrant culture converge in the UK’s first Urban Heritage Park.
Albert Square
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Manchester’s grand civic heart, framed by Gothic spires and alive with markets, monuments, and city life.
Essential places to dine
20 Stories
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Experience Manchester’s skyline from 20 Stories, a glamorous rooftop restaurant blending Modern European cuisine with stunning city views.
Hawksmoor Manchester
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Experience exquisite British steaks and seafood in a historic Victorian courthouse with impeccable service and elegant private dining.
Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant
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Cozy British dining with eclectic charm and seasonal flavors in Manchester’s lively Spinningfields district.
Tattu Manchester
0.2 km
Modern Chinese cuisine and theatrical design in Manchester's Spinningfields district.
Italiana Fifty Five Great Northern
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in Manchester’s stylish Great Northern Warehouse setting.
Gusto Italian
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Experience elegant Italian dining in Manchester’s historic Elliot House, where 1920s charm meets fresh, contemporary cuisine.
Australasia
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Stylish Pan-Asian dining in Manchester’s Spinningfields with vibrant flavors, chic design, and a lively atmosphere for special occasions.
Almost Famous GN
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A lively Manchester burger bar serving bold, indulgent American-style burgers with loaded fries in a vibrant, casual setting.
Albert's Schloss - Manchester
0.2 km
A lively Bavarian-inspired beer hall in Manchester blending hearty food, live music, and vibrant nightlife in a unique social setting.
Masons
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Elegant Modern British dining with art deco charm and a refreshingly simple menu philosophy.
Another hand
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An intimate modern British restaurant in Manchester’s Deansgate Mews, celebrated for inventive seasonal dishes and natural wines.
James Martin Manchester
0.3 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine in an elegant casino setting, where seasonal ingredients and expert service create a memorable Manchester dining destination.
Evuna Deansgate
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Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Deansgate district.
Dimitri's - Tapas Meze Bar & Restaurant
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Authentic Greek tapas and meze in Manchester’s lively Deansgate district, perfect for sharing and savoring Mediterranean flavors.
Don Marco
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Contemporary Italian dining with warm service and fresh flavors in Manchester’s lively Campfield Arcade.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
TVSeriesJackets
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Explore TVSeriesJackets in Manchester, where iconic TV show jackets come to life, blending style with your favorite characters' adventures.
Catch my Thrift
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Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
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Discover science-infused souvenirs in the heart of Manchester's industrial birthplace, where history meets hands-on innovation at the Science and Industry Museum Shop.
Manchester Souvenirs Gifts & Presents Geek Elf Elux Bars Luggage storage locker
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Authentic Manchester souvenirs and gifts with local charm, plus convenient luggage storage in the heart of Deansgate.
Pulse
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Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
Søstrene Grene
0.6 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Branded Like A Boss
0.7 km
Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
ItsFetch
0.7 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
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Futuristic cornershop at Deansgate Square's base: craft coffee, local brews, zero-waste refills, and artisanal bites amid Manchester's iconic towers.
Curvilicious Clothing
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Empowering plus-size style in Manchester's beating heart: Curvilicious Clothing celebrates curves with trendy, authentic fashion on Owen Street.
Rams Gift World
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Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
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A vibrant Chinese art and craft gallery in Manchester’s Chinatown, showcasing handcrafted treasures and cultural heritage in a warm, welcoming space.
INFINITE RUNNING
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Elevate your run with Infinite Running's premium gear: sleek half tights, breathable singlets, and weather-ready layers for Manchester's relentless athletes.
Stare Society
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Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Blues Kitchen Manchester
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The Alchemist Spinningfields
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Speak In Code
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The Gas Lamp
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MOJO
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Three Little Words
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A stylish gin distillery and cocktail bar under historic arches, blending craft cocktails, seasonal food, and immersive experiences in Manchester’s heart.
cask
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Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Albert Square Manchester
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Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Manchester’s Albert Square, perfect for lively brunches, evening drinks, and social celebrations.
Arcane
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Cloud 23
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The Deansgate
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Salt Dog Slim's Manchester
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Lock 91
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Atlas Bar
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The Britons Protection
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
History Nightclub
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42's
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Royal Vida Night Club
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Venue Nightclub
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Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Club Liv Manchester
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Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Ark Manchester
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Popworld Manchester
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Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Bliss Club Manchester
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Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Viva Manchester
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Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Satans Hollow
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Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Bijou Club
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Kable
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Cargo
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Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Club Tropicana
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The Cockatoo Club
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
