O2 Ritz Manchester: Historic Live Music Venue with Iconic Legacy
Historic Manchester music venue with iconic sprung dancefloor, legendary performances, and vibrant live events since 1927.
O2 Ritz Manchester is a Grade II listed live music venue located on Whitworth Street West, known for its sprung dancefloor and rich musical heritage. Built in 1927 as a dance hall, it has hosted legendary acts including The Beatles and The Smiths. With a 1500 capacity, the venue blends historic charm and modern sound technology, making it a cornerstone of Manchester’s vibrant music scene.
A brief summary to O2 Ritz Manchester
- Whitworth St W, Manchester, M1 5NQ, GB
- +441615526374
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-6 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-6 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-6 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-6 pm
- Friday 12 pm-6 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy the art deco interiors before the venue fills and to secure good spots near the stage or balcony seating.
- Be prepared for warm conditions inside during busy events; dress comfortably and stay hydrated.
- Check the venue’s bag policy in advance, as large bags and backpacks are usually not allowed.
- Explore nearby historic pubs like the Britons’ Protection and the Peveril of the Peak for pre- or post-show drinks.
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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Public Transport
Take Manchester’s Metrolink tram to St Peter’s Square or Deansgate-Castlefield stops, both approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the venue. Trams run frequently throughout the day with tickets costing around £3-£5 for a single journey.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve Whitworth Street West, including numbers 1, 2, and 3 from Manchester city center and surrounding areas. Buses run every 10-20 minutes, with fares typically under £4. Stops are within a 5-minute walk of the venue.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber provide direct access to the venue. From Manchester Piccadilly Station, expect a 5-10 minute ride costing approximately £6-£10 depending on traffic.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to the O2 Ritz is ideal. The venue is centrally located within Manchester city center, accessible via well-lit sidewalks and flat terrain. Walking times vary from 10-20 minutes depending on your starting point.
O2 Ritz Manchester location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about O2 Ritz Manchester
A Storied Venue Rooted in Manchester’s Musical Heritage
The O2 Ritz Manchester stands as a testament to the city’s deep musical roots. Constructed in 1927 by architects Cruickshank and Seward, this Grade II listed building was originally designed as a dance hall featuring a rare sprung dancefloor and a revolving stage. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, it was one of Manchester’s premier entertainment destinations, captivating audiences with its elegant art deco interiors and lively atmosphere.From Dance Hall to Legendary Music Venue
Transitioning from its dance hall origins, the venue embraced the rise of pop and rock ’n’ roll, becoming a celebrated live music venue. It famously hosted The Beatles during the height of Beatlemania and was the site of The Smiths’ very first concert in 1982. The 1950s and 1960s saw the venue thrive with the ‘Dancing In The Dark’ nights led by Phillip Moss, known as ‘The King of The Ritz.’ The 1980s and 1990s further cemented its status with performances by iconic bands such as Happy Mondays, R.E.M., and The Stone Roses.Modern Revival and Continued Excellence
In the 2010s, a significant £2 million regeneration project modernized the venue’s sound and lighting systems while preserving its historic character. Now part of the Live Nation Entertainment family and the O2 Academy Group, the Ritz continues to attract both established artists and emerging talent. Recent performances have included Arctic Monkeys, Future, Gary Numan, and Method Man, showcasing its versatility across genres.Architectural and Atmospheric Highlights
Visitors to the O2 Ritz can admire the venue’s circular room layout, which enhances acoustics and sightlines. The sprung dancefloor remains one of the few of its kind in Manchester, offering a unique experience for dancers and concertgoers alike. The art deco styling, though often dimly lit during events, adds a timeless elegance that connects audiences to the venue’s storied past.Vibrant Events and Community Connection
The venue hosts a diverse range of events beyond concerts, including club nights, comedy shows, weddings, and corporate functions. Its location near the Rochdale Canal and historic pubs like the Britons’ Protection and the Peveril of the Peak enriches the visitor experience, blending cultural heritage with vibrant nightlife. The O2 Ritz remains a vital hub within Manchester’s Oxford Road Corridor, fostering community engagement through music and entertainment.Challenges and Visitor Experience
While the O2 Ritz is beloved for its atmosphere and sound quality, some visitors note challenges such as high drink prices and limited air conditioning, which can lead to warm conditions during packed events. Despite these issues, the venue’s historic charm and dynamic programming continue to draw enthusiastic crowds, making it a must-visit for music lovers in Manchester.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic England
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Canada House, Manchester
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John Dalton Statue
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Peterloo Massacre Monument
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St. Peter's Square
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Free Trade Hall
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Arch of Chinatown
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Manchester City Council
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Albert Memorial
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John Bright Statue
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Mulberry Passage
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Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Horse and fox statue
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A captivating sculpture on Oxford Street celebrating Manchester’s heritage through the symbolic horse and fox.
Palace Theatre Manchester
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Rochdale Canal Lake
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The Bridgewater Hall
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HOME Manchester
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Sightseeing Manchester
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Landmark, St Peter's Square
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FAC251 - Factory Manchester
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The New Union
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Emmeline Pankhurst Statue
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Manchester Central Library
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Grey Horse Inn
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拿破仑（Napoleons) Restaurant and KTV
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Manchester Cenotaph
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Alcotraz Manchester: Cell Block Three-Four
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Essential places to dine
The Refuge
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A stylish sanctuary blending global flavors and British classics within Manchester’s iconic Kimpton Clocktower Hotel.
WOOD Manchester by Simon Wood
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Experience Simon Wood’s innovative fine dining and artisan pairings in a stylish yet relaxed Manchester setting.
Don Giovanni - Italian Restaurant Manchester
0.3 km
A lively Italian restaurant in Manchester’s city centre blending traditional flavours with modern style and vibrant atmosphere.
Fumo by San Carlo - Manchester
0.4 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with an art deco flair, vibrant bar scene, and shareable dishes in Manchester’s lively St Peter’s Square.
Adam Reid at The French
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Experience innovative Northern British fine dining with theatrical flair in Manchester’s iconic Midland Hotel.
Mount Street Dining Room & Bar
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Classic British dining with northern flair in the elegant, historic setting of Manchester’s Midland Hotel.
Habesha Restaurant
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Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine and warm hospitality at Habesha Restaurant, Manchester’s beloved spot for traditional injera and hearty stews.
James Martin Manchester
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Experience refined modern British cuisine in an elegant casino setting, where seasonal ingredients and expert service create a memorable Manchester dining destination.
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
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A lively Bavarian-inspired beer hall in Manchester blending hearty food, live music, and vibrant nightlife in a unique social setting.
Evuna Deansgate
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Podium
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Sophisticated Modern British dining with inventive flavors and sleek modernist style in Manchester’s iconic Hilton Deansgate.
Another hand
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An intimate modern British restaurant in Manchester’s Deansgate Mews, celebrated for inventive seasonal dishes and natural wines.
Italiana Fifty Five Great Northern
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in Manchester’s stylish Great Northern Warehouse setting.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SHMYLS - Thoughtfully Made
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Discover thoughtfully crafted jewelry and homewares at SHMYLS, a unique gift shop nestled in Manchester’s vibrant Hatch complex.
Stare Society
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Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
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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.
TVSeriesJackets
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Explore TVSeriesJackets in Manchester, where iconic TV show jackets come to life, blending style with your favorite characters' adventures.
Branded Like A Boss
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Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
ItsFetch
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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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INFINITE RUNNING
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Manchester Souvenirs & Convenience Store
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Science and Industry Museum Shop
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Utility Gift Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gorilla
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The Britons Protection
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Three Little Words
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Lock 91
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Cloud 23
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The Deansgate
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Atlas Bar
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Slug & Lettuce - Albert Square Manchester
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Speak In Code
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cask
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The Alchemist New York Street
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All Bar One Manchester
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Arcane
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Viva Manchester
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Kable
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Bliss Club Manchester
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Satans Hollow
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Royal Vida Night Club
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History Nightclub
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42's
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Club Liv Manchester
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Twenty Twenty Two
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Funkademia
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Mint Lounge
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Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Unique
- Fun-filled
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
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
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
