Having produced The Smiths, The Stone Roses, Simply Red and The Chemical Brothers, this city's got that entertainment lark under wraps. Switch up your usual night out with relaxing beats and heart-racing tunes, all while you dine or drink out. From DJs spinning late-night sets to talented local acts with chilled out vibes and massive bands playing sell-out shows, these are the best bars, pubs or clubs for live music in Manchester.
Last edited by Izzah Kazi
Last updated on 30th January 2024
Every Friday and Saturday night, The English Lounge in the Northern Quarter boasts plenty of entertainment. Gather your pals for an evening of live karaoke on the big screen, followed by DJ sets from some of the city's finest 'til late.
One of the best restaurants with live music in Manchester, Blues Kitchen is the place for those who love the sounds of the American South. The Quay Street spot offers bands from Monday to Thursdays and club nights taking over on the weekend.
For a night filled with entertainment, head on over to one of Grosvenor Casino Didsbury's live music events. Kick start with a tasty two-course meal and welcome drink before heading onto the dancefloor to enjoy sounds of the seventies, ABBA tribute bands and more.
A buzzing Latin-themed music bar, Revolucion De Cuba Manchester is the go-to for eclectic tunes, salsa dancing and great cocktails. If the tasty menu of food and drinks isn't quite enough, then the infectious sounds should definitely do it for you.
Spread over two floors of a Grade II listed building is The Whiskey Jar, a favourite out of all the bars with live music in Manchester. Head downstairs to enjoy local ales and cocktails as you take in a live band, open mic set or DJs in the basement space.
The Lawn Club are bringing you live music on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, with the former being a showcase of new, upcoming artists. Chow down on pizzas and sip through seasonal drinks while enjoying the performances here.
A reinvented classic from the 90s, Barca Bar serves up tasty pub grub, live music, and cocktails to boot. Want to soak up some rays? Check out their massive terrace with a cocktail in hand, or get your groove on to some of the best live bands in town.
Climbing the ranks of the best Irish bars, it's no surprise that O'Neill's also has a fantastic lineup of live music on throughout the week. Head on over to this Printworks boozer for lively tunes, as well as tasty grub and top-notch boozy bevs.
Moxy Manchester is the cool hotel bar fronting live DJs on weekends, bottomless brunches or beer pong to kick it off, and 24/7 pizzas for when you get peckish. Better yet, the lineup of unique cocktails includes the Manc-hatten of Makers Mark bourbon, merlot and vimto.
The oldest nightclub in the city, The Ritz dates back to the 1920s. Hosting legendary performers like The Beatles, it's now run by O2 and offers a wide variety of live acts, from world-famous punk acts to local indie acts, right around the corner from Oxford Road.
@ Albert's Schloss on Every Sunday
Albert's Schloss is buzzing at Sunday lunchtime, offering a Bavarian beauty of a Cook Haus roasts, accompanied by a live jazz band. Get a wriggle on and stay as long as you please, as the bar keeps the party going 'til 2am with resident DJs.
Sporting one of the coolest looks in the city, the gig room at YES is entirely pink. Expect an inclusive and diverse line-up, with everything from EP launches to jazz trios in this totally Instagrammable space.
From more intimate gigs at its bar to 500-people capacity shows in the main performance space, Band On The Wall's 2022 reopening sees the venue continue its international reputation. Once the epicentre of the city's 70s punk scene, this party palace is ideal for live music in Manchester come Saturday or any other time.
Live jazz, folk, gypsy, salsa, swing and ska make Matt and Phred's a top choice out of live music venues in Manchester. Whether you're out with mates or on a date, team your tunes with cocktails, beers or a bite to eat in this prohibition-style hotspot.
When in need of live music in Manchester tomorrow or this weekend, you'll find a varied mix of artists taking to the stage at The Night and Day Cafe; from disco to indie and rock 'n' roll. There really is something for everyone at this cosy NQ pick.
Soup Kitchen is your one-stop-shop for seasonal food and music galore. Alongside snacks, sandwiches and one pots, you'll find a lineup of events in the basement. Think local bands or international acts, alongside DJs, producers and offbeat sessions.
Bunny Jackson's is the place to be if you're searching for free live music in Manchester. Hosting bands every Sunday, this Deansgate joint showcases the finest artists on a chain-link fenced off stage, all while offering bourbon and bites inspired by the Deep South.
