AO Arena, Manchester

A Manchester Landmark for Live Entertainment

Opened in 1995 as the Manchester Evening News Arena, AO Arena has grown into one of the UK’s busiest and most iconic indoor venues. Located just steps from Manchester Victoria Station, it sits at the crossroads of the city’s transport network and cultural life. Over the decades, it has welcomed legendary acts such as U2, The Rolling Stones, Prince, Madonna, and Lady Gaga, cementing its reputation as a must-play stop on major world tours. Its central position and large capacity make it a natural hub for everything from chart-topping pop concerts to high-energy rock shows and major comedy tours.

What Happens Inside the Arena

The arena’s flexible layout adapts to a wide range of events, from standing-floor concerts to seated theatre-style performances and family-friendly spectacles. Music fans can expect everything from stadium pop and rock to electronic dance, hip-hop, and orchestral shows like Pete Tong’s Ibiza Classics. Comedy stars such as Jimmy Carr bring their tours here, while family audiences flock to Disney On Ice, Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live, and large-scale productions like Cirque Wicked Wizard of Oz. The venue also hosts major sports events, including boxing, basketball, and darts, adding to its dynamic, ever-changing calendar.

Design and Atmosphere

AO Arena is a modern, purpose-built indoor arena with a clean, functional design focused on sightlines, acoustics, and crowd flow. The interior is dominated by the vast bowl of seating and standing areas surrounding the central stage or arena floor, creating an intimate yet powerful atmosphere even at full capacity. Lighting rigs, video screens, and sound systems are tailored to each event, transforming the space from a rock concert to a glittering musical spectacular or a roaring sports showdown. The concourses are wide and well-lit, with clear signage, food and drink outlets, and facilities designed for large crowds.

Visitor Experience and Practicalities

For most visitors, the experience begins at Manchester Victoria Station, just a short walk across Hunts Bank. The arena is fully accessible, with step-free routes, lifts, and dedicated seating for wheelchair users. Inside, there are multiple bars, food kiosks, merchandise stands, and restrooms spread across the levels. Security is standard for a major venue, with bag checks and restrictions on large items. The arena also offers premium hospitality options, including private suites and premium seating, for those looking for a more exclusive experience. Events typically run from early evening into the night, with doors opening around 6–7 PM for most concerts.

Events Calendar and Seasonal Highlights

The AO Arena calendar is packed year-round, with a particularly busy period from late autumn through early spring. December is a highlight, featuring festive family shows like Disney On Ice and Cirque Wicked Wizard of Oz, alongside major music acts and comedy tours. The new year brings events such as Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live and Strictly Come Dancing – The Live Tour, followed by a strong run of concerts through spring and summer. The venue’s diverse programming ensures there is almost always something appealing, whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, comedy, dance, or large-scale family entertainment.