FAC251 - The Factory: Manchester's Iconic Indie Rock and Nightlife Venue
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
FAC251 - The Factory is a legendary nightclub and live music venue located at 112-118 Princess Street, Manchester. Housed in the former Factory Records headquarters, it offers three floors of diverse music styles including indie, rock, electronic, and live bands. Known for its intimate atmosphere despite a large capacity, FAC251 is a hub for Manchester’s vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage, hosting regular events and tribute shows.
A brief summary to FAC251 - Factory Manchester
- 112-118 Princess St, Manchester, M1 7EN, GB
- +441616372570
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 6 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 pm-4 am
- Tuesday 11 pm-4 am
- Thursday 11 pm-4 am
- Friday 11 pm-4 am
- Saturday 11 pm-4 am
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on popular event nights like Factory 251 Saturdays.
- Bring a valid physical ID as it is required for entry and age verification.
- Be prepared for a paid smoking area, which requires purchasing a bracelet to access.
- Wear appropriate footwear as the metal stairs can be slippery, particularly when crowded or wet.
- Check the event schedule in advance to catch tribute bands or special live performances.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
FAC251 - Factory Manchester location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about FAC251 - Factory Manchester
Historic Roots and Architectural Revival
FAC251 - The Factory occupies the former headquarters of Factory Records, a cornerstone of Manchester's music history. Originally designed by Ben Kelly and funded by New Order, the building was revitalized in 2010 to serve as a modern nightclub and live music venue. The redesign preserves the industrial and vintage aesthetic of the original Factory Records era, blending heritage with contemporary club culture. This connection to Manchester’s musical legacy makes FAC251 a symbolic landmark for fans of indie rock and alternative music.Multi-Floor Music Experience
Spanning three floors, FAC251 offers a variety of musical experiences to suit different tastes. Each floor features distinct genres, from indie and rock & roll to electronic dance music, drum & bass, and live band performances. The venue is designed to maintain an intimate feel despite its capacity of around 1,200 people, ensuring that each floor provides a unique atmosphere. This versatility attracts a diverse crowd, especially students and young adults, who enjoy the lively and dynamic nightlife scene.Events and Live Performances
FAC251 hosts a packed schedule of events throughout the year, including themed club nights, tribute band performances, and live concerts. Popular recurring events like Factory 251 Saturdays feature DJs spinning dance, R&B, indie, and bass music until the early morning hours. Tribute shows celebrate iconic bands such as Oasis and The Smiths, reinforcing the venue’s role in Manchester’s cultural fabric. The venue’s Funktion One sound system is highly regarded, enhancing the live music experience.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The club is known for its vibrant and student-friendly environment, with a casual dress code and a focus on fun and inclusivity. However, visitors should be aware of some challenges, such as crowded dance floors and metal staircases that can be slippery when wet. The smoking area requires a paid entry, which has been a point of contention among patrons. Despite these issues, FAC251 remains a popular destination for nightlife enthusiasts seeking a mix of live music and clubbing.Location and Accessibility
Situated on Princess Street near Oxford Road, FAC251 benefits from a central location in Manchester’s bustling nightlife district. The venue is accessible via multiple public transport options and is close to other popular music venues, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the city’s entertainment scene. Its urban setting adds to the energetic vibe, with nearby bars and eateries complementing the night out.Legacy and Cultural Significance
FAC251 embodies the spirit of Manchester’s musical revolution, bridging past and present. It stands as a tribute to Factory Records’ influential role in shaping the city’s identity and continues to foster a community around alternative music and club culture. For visitors, the venue offers both a historical connection and a contemporary nightlife experience, making it a must-visit for music lovers and cultural explorers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
John Dalton Statue
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Honoring John Dalton, father of atomic theory and pioneer of colour blindness research, with a distinguished statue in Manchester.
Historic England
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Explore the rich heritage of England at Historic England in Manchester, where history meets preservation and community engagement.
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.
Hotspur House
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Arch of Chinatown
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Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Connaught Building
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Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
Victory Over Blindness
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A powerful bronze memorial at Manchester Piccadilly honoring WWI veterans blinded in battle, symbolizing resilience and solidarity at eye level.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
0.6 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
St. Peter's Square
0.6 km
Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Friedrich Engels Statue
0.6 km
A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.
Manchester City Council
0.7 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Free Trade Hall
0.8 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.8 km
A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
Albert Memorial
0.8 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
John Bright Statue
0.8 km
A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Unmissable attractions to see
The New Union
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant pulse of Manchester's LGBTQ+ nightlife at The New Union, a welcoming gay bar and pub with lively entertainment.
Palace Theatre Manchester
0.3 km
Experience Manchester’s historic Palace Theatre, a grand Edwardian venue hosting world-class musicals, plays, and concerts in the city’s cultural heart.
The Vimto Park
0.3 km
Discover the historic green oasis celebrating Manchester’s iconic Vimto drink in a tranquil urban park setting.
Alan Turing Memorial
0.3 km
A poignant tribute in Manchester’s Sackville Gardens honoring Alan Turing, the father of computer science and a symbol of courage and equality.
Horse and fox statue
0.3 km
A captivating sculpture on Oxford Street celebrating Manchester’s heritage through the symbolic horse and fox.
The Tree of Life
0.3 km
A heartfelt memorial in Manchester’s Gay Village symbolizing hope, resilience, and remembrance for those affected by HIV/AIDS.
The Beacon Of Hope
0.3 km
A striking and unique memorial in Manchester honoring those living with and lost to HIV/AIDS, symbolizing hope and resilience.
Sackville Gardens
0.3 km
A tranquil urban garden in Manchester, home to the Alan Turing Memorial and vibrant LGBTQ+ cultural events.
拿破仑(Napoleons) Restaurant and KTV
0.4 km
Discover the ultimate dining and karaoke experience at Napoleons Restaurant and KTV in Manchester, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and fun.
Via Manchester
0.4 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Via Manchester, a premier nightclub and bar on Canal Street, offering unforgettable experiences amidst a vibrant atmosphere.
The Molly House
0.4 km
Discover the delightful atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings at The Molly House, Manchester's favorite bar and restaurant for tapas and drinks.
O2 Ritz Manchester
0.4 km
Historic Manchester music venue with iconic sprung dancefloor, legendary performances, and vibrant live events since 1927.
The Cockatoo Club
0.4 km
Manchester’s vibrant cabaret hotspot offering dazzling drag shows, lively bars, and unforgettable LGBTQ+ nightlife in the heart of the Gay Village.
Grey Horse Inn
0.5 km
Experience the heart of Manchester at the Grey Horse Inn, where delicious food, local brews, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Landmark, St Peter's Square
0.5 km
A central corporate hub in Manchester’s St Peter's Square, blending modern office facilities with urban vitality.
Essential places to dine
The Refuge
0.2 km
A stylish sanctuary blending global flavors and British classics within Manchester’s iconic Kimpton Clocktower Hotel.
Habesha Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine and warm hospitality at Habesha Restaurant, Manchester’s beloved spot for traditional injera and hearty stews.
Don Giovanni - Italian Restaurant Manchester
0.5 km
A lively Italian restaurant in Manchester’s city centre blending traditional flavours with modern style and vibrant atmosphere.
Fumo by San Carlo - Manchester
0.5 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with an art deco flair, vibrant bar scene, and shareable dishes in Manchester’s lively St Peter’s Square.
Store Street Exchange Restaurant
0.6 km
Modern British dining with rotisserie specialties and craft cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly hub.
WOOD Manchester by Simon Wood
0.6 km
Experience Simon Wood’s innovative fine dining and artisan pairings in a stylish yet relaxed Manchester setting.
Higher Ground
0.6 km
A vibrant Manchester bistro blending seasonal British produce with sustainable ethos and refined, shareable dishes in a modern, welcoming setting.
Adam Reid at The French
0.6 km
Experience innovative Northern British fine dining with theatrical flair in Manchester’s iconic Midland Hotel.
Mount Street Dining Room & Bar
0.6 km
Classic British dining with northern flair in the elegant, historic setting of Manchester’s Midland Hotel.
Namii Kitchen & Cocktails
0.7 km
Experience vibrant Vietnamese and pan-Asian flavors with creative cocktails in Manchester’s lively city centre.
James Martin Manchester
0.8 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine in an elegant casino setting, where seasonal ingredients and expert service create a memorable Manchester dining destination.
Tariff & Dale
0.8 km
Historic industrial charm meets modern British cuisine and inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter.
Armenian Taverna & Restaurant
0.8 km
Manchester's authentic Armenian culinary institution, recently modernized yet rooted in five decades of tradition.
Grand Pacific
0.8 km
Experience Manchester’s gothic-inspired Pan-Asian cocktail bar with stunning décor, lively atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks in the city center.
Albert's Schloss - Manchester
0.8 km
A lively Bavarian-inspired beer hall in Manchester blending hearty food, live music, and vibrant nightlife in a unique social setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SHMYLS - Thoughtfully Made
0.3 km
Discover thoughtfully crafted jewelry and homewares at SHMYLS, a unique gift shop nestled in Manchester’s vibrant Hatch complex.
Stare Society
0.5 km
Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
Cute Things By Aggie
0.5 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and charming homewares crafted with natural elements in Manchester’s cozy boutique, Cute Things By Aggie.
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
0.5 km
A vibrant Chinese art and craft gallery in Manchester’s Chinatown, showcasing handcrafted treasures and cultural heritage in a warm, welcoming space.
Manchester Souvenirs & Convenience Store
0.6 km
Discover authentic Manchester souvenirs and essentials in the heart of the city, blending culture, convenience, and community spirit.
Utility Gift Store
0.7 km
Discover quirky, trendy, and unique gifts at Utility Gift Store, Manchester’s independent boutique for stylish presents and creative designs.
needi
0.7 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts with expert personal service in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly at Needi.
The University of Manchester Gift Shop
0.8 km
Official University of Manchester merchandise and unique gifts in a welcoming campus shop on Oxford Road.
TVSeriesJackets
0.9 km
Explore TVSeriesJackets in Manchester, where iconic TV show jackets come to life, blending style with your favorite characters' adventures.
Catch my Thrift
0.9 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
The Manchester Shop
0.9 km
Discover Manchester's soul in bee motifs, music tees, and proud souvenirs at this Northern Quarter gem within Afflecks Arcade.
Bionic Seven
0.9 km
Discover expertly curated vintage menswear and unique streetwear styles at Bionic Seven, a Northern Quarter icon since 2003.
Red and Blue Umbrella
1.0 km
Discover timeless style and friendly service at Manchester’s Red and Blue Umbrella vintage clothing shop on Church Street.
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
1.0 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gorilla
0.3 km
Manchester's ultimate hybrid haunt: brunch by day, beats by night in a funky bar-club fusion with live gigs and roasts.
The Britons Protection
0.7 km
Historic Manchester pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional charm, lively atmosphere, and welcoming community spirit.
The Alchemist New York Street
0.7 km
A captivating cocktail theatre and dining experience blending molecular mixology with global cuisine in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Three Little Words
0.8 km
A stylish gin distillery and cocktail bar under historic arches, blending craft cocktails, seasonal food, and immersive experiences in Manchester’s heart.
Slug & Lettuce - Albert Square Manchester
0.8 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Manchester’s Albert Square, perfect for lively brunches, evening drinks, and social celebrations.
All Bar One Manchester
0.9 km
Stylish wine bar on Manchester’s King Street offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a lively, modern atmosphere for casual dining and drinks.
Salt Dog Slim's Manchester
0.9 km
Dive into Salt Dog Slim's Manchester for bold cocktails, American-style hot dogs, and a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of the city.
Speak In Code
0.9 km
Discover Speak In Code, Manchester’s innovative cocktail bar blending artisanal mixology, sustainable practices, and a uniquely immersive atmosphere.
Lock 91
0.9 km
Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.
Cloud 23
0.9 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.
The Deansgate
0.9 km
Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.
Hold Fast Bar
0.9 km
Dive into Manchester's Northern Quarter basement gem: nautical vibes, retro tiles, banging tunes, and chill nights at Hold Fast Bar.
NQ64 Northern Quarter
0.9 km
Retro arcade bar blasting 80s-90s nostalgia with neon cocktails, token games, and basement buzz in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
Atlas Bar
1.0 km
Discover Manchester’s iconic gin bar with 570+ gins, award-winning service, and a year-round heated terrace in the heart of Deansgate.
Dusk Til Pawn
1.0 km
Secretive pawn-shop façade, intimate speakeasy interior and a menu of inventive cocktails in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kable
0.3 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Club Tropicana
0.3 km
Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.
Viva Manchester
0.4 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Satans Hollow
0.4 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Bliss Club Manchester
0.7 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Popworld Manchester
0.8 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Ark Manchester
0.8 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Venue Nightclub
0.9 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Twenty Twenty Two
0.9 km
Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
42's
0.9 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
History Nightclub
1.0 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Royal Vida Night Club
1.0 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
Aatma
1.0 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Club Liv Manchester
1.0 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Funkademia
1.0 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
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
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- LGBT Friendly