Aviva Studios (Factory International) - Image 1
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Aviva Studios

4.6
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

Experience art, football, and live music in Manchester's dynamic Aviva Studios, a venue for immersive entertainment.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

More events and lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Aviva Studios (Factory International) - Image 1

Aviva Studios

Best Time

Weekends

More events and lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience art, football, and live music in Manchester's dynamic Aviva Studios, a venue for immersive entertainment.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A brilliant time here, the football experience was great for my boys!"

Vertical photo
TIP

⚽ Feel Like a Pro

Immerse yourself in the football experience by walking out as a player!

🎶 Great Gig Atmosphere

Enjoy the intimate vibe and good sound for live music events.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Football Experience

Interactive Football Experience

Ground Floor

Walk out like a player, hit penalties, and feel the roar of the crowd on match day.

Intimate Gig Venues

Intimate Gig Venues

Event Spaces

Experience live music in a warm, intimate setting with great sound quality.

Art Exhibitions

Art Exhibitions

Gallery Spaces

Explore thought-provoking art installations and exhibitions.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Special Events

While some experiences are 'pay what you want', popular gigs and exhibitions often require advance booking. Check the official website for event schedules and ticket releases to avoid disappointment.

Card Payments Recommended

Some reviews mention issues with card payments at the bar. It's advisable to have cards ready or be prepared for potential cash-only situations at certain points of sale.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
More events and lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Gigs and fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

What is Aviva Studios like?

⚽ Feel Like a Pro

Immerse yourself in the football experience by walking out as a player! Reddit

🎶 Great Gig Atmosphere

Enjoy the intimate vibe and good sound for live music events. Reddit

reddit.com

Concert at Factory International

reddit.com

The reviews are in

💳 Card Payment Ready

Have cards handy for bar purchases, though some spots might be cash-only. Reddit

🅿️ Easy Access

Getting in and out of the venue is generally straightforward. Reddit

reddit.com

Question about Aviva Studios

Tips

from all over the internet

⚽ Feel Like a Pro

Immerse yourself in the football experience by walking out as a player! Reddit

🎶 Great Gig Atmosphere

Enjoy the intimate vibe and good sound for live music events. Reddit

💳 Card Payment Ready

Have cards handy for bar purchases, though some spots might be cash-only. Reddit

🅿️ Easy Access

Getting in and out of the venue is generally straightforward. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Aviva Studios is praised as a versatile venue, excelling as both an intimate live music spot and an engaging attraction with its unique football experience. Visitors appreciate the atmosphere, sound quality, and reasonable bar prices, though some note minor issues with restroom access and card payments.

"Brilliant time here. Although couldn't purchase food because needed cards. The footy experience was great for my boys. You could pay what you want to get in. We walked through hall as if we we footy players going to a match. Watched footy from screen saw a mascot. My lads played at penalty shoot out"

Emma Etim

"I've been to 2 gigs here but I would say this is possibly my favourite Manchester venue.
Keeping the venue open after the gig finishes is great there's no major rush to get out. I think the bar is reasonably priced. Possibly cheaper than bars around it.
Only issues no loos in the 1st floor where the event spaces is but can live with having to go downstairs"

James Lawton

"Great venue for the Olly Alexander Up Close And Polari concert. Very intimate and a lovely, warm setting. 10/10

(I've added a couple of the photographs and videos I took during the event.)"

Keith Pearson

What People Like

Intimate gig atmosphere
Interactive football experience
Good sound quality

What People Dislike

Limited restrooms on 1st floor
Card payment issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Aviva Studios is located just outside Manchester's main city centre. It's easily accessible by public transport and is a straightforward journey from the city hub. Reddit

Information on specific parking facilities is limited, but given its location near the city centre, public transport is often recommended. Check local parking apps for nearby options. Reddit

Yes, it's situated just outside the main city centre, making it a feasible walk for many, especially if you enjoy exploring the area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

For specific events like gigs and exhibitions, advance booking is usually required. Some experiences, like the football one, may operate on a 'pay what you want' basis. Always check the official website for event details. Reddit

Opening hours vary significantly depending on scheduled events. It's best to check the Aviva Studios website for the specific hours related to the exhibition or gig you plan to attend. Reddit

There is no strict dress code for Aviva Studios. Visitors typically dress casually, especially for gigs or the football experience. Reddit

While some areas like the bar may accept card payments, reviews suggest that cash might be preferred or necessary in certain situations. It's wise to have both options available. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The football experience allows you to walk out as a player, experience a penalty shootout, and watch football on a screen, mimicking a match day atmosphere. It's particularly engaging for children. Reddit

Yes, the interactive football experience is a hit with children, making it a family-friendly destination. Reddit

Aviva Studios hosts a variety of events including live music gigs, art exhibitions, and interactive experiences like the football simulation. Reddit

Many visitors praise Aviva Studios as a great live music venue, highlighting its intimate atmosphere, good sound quality, and the ability to keep the venue open after the gig. Reddit

Some reviews mention a lack of restrooms on the first floor where event spaces are located, requiring visitors to go downstairs. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, food and drinks are available for purchase. However, some visitors have encountered issues with card payments at the bar, so it's advisable to be prepared. Reddit

Compared to bars in the surrounding area, the bar prices at Aviva Studios are considered reasonably priced by some visitors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed, and visitors often share photos and videos of their experiences, especially during gigs. However, specific exhibition rules may apply. Reddit

The football experience offers unique photo opportunities, as do the intimate settings for live music. The exterior approach on Water Street also provides a distinctive backdrop. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Aviva Studios is a fantastic spot for families, particularly thanks to its interactive football experience. Kids can live out their dreams of being a professional footballer, walking out of the tunnel and taking penalties. Reddit This hands-on approach makes it more engaging than a traditional museum visit. The venue's location outside the main city centre also means it can be a bit more relaxed than the busiest tourist hubs. Reddit

While the football experience is a clear winner for younger visitors, families can also explore any art exhibitions that might be on display. Be mindful of the 'pay what you want' aspect for some attractions, which can be budget-friendly, but also be prepared for potential card payment issues at the bar. Reddit

🎶 Music Lovers

For live music fans, Aviva Studios is a must-visit. It's lauded as a great venue for gigs, offering an intimate setting with excellent sound quality that makes every performance feel special. Reddit The ability to linger after the show and the reasonably priced bar add to the overall positive concert experience. Reddit

Whether you're catching a well-known artist or a rising star, the atmosphere at Aviva Studios is consistently praised. It's a venue that prioritizes the connection between the artist and the audience, making it a top choice for memorable live music nights. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Aviva Studios Football Experience

Aviva Studios offers a unique football experience that transports visitors into the heart of a match day. You can walk through the tunnel as if you were a professional player heading onto the pitch, complete with crowd sounds and visuals. This immersive setup is a major draw, especially for families and football enthusiasts. It's designed to replicate the excitement and atmosphere of attending a live game, offering a playful and engaging way to interact with the sport. Reddit

Beyond the tunnel walk, the experience often includes interactive elements like a penalty shootout where you can test your skills. Large screens showcase football action, further enhancing the feeling of being at a real match. While some might find it a bit of a 'sell-out' in terms of artistic integrity for a particular artist, the sheer fun and novelty of this particular attraction are undeniable for many. Reddit

This attraction is a prime example of how Aviva Studios blends different forms of entertainment, from art to sport, creating a multi-faceted destination. It’s a great way to engage younger visitors or anyone who enjoys a bit of interactive fun. Remember to check if this is part of a specific exhibition or a standalone attraction when planning your visit. Reddit

Aviva Studios as a Live Music Venue

Aviva Studios has quickly become a favored venue for live music enthusiasts in Manchester. Its design lends itself to creating a warm and intimate atmosphere, making gigs feel more personal and engaging. Reviewers consistently praise the good sound quality, ensuring that performances are enjoyed to their fullest. This focus on the audience experience sets it apart from larger, more impersonal arenas. Reddit

A significant advantage highlighted by visitors is the venue's policy of keeping open after the gig finishes. This allows attendees to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed, making the overall experience more relaxed and enjoyable. Furthermore, the bar prices are considered reasonable, often cheaper than surrounding establishments, adding to the venue's appeal for concert-goers looking for value. Reddit

While there might be minor logistical points, such as restroom availability on certain floors, the overall sentiment towards Aviva Studios as a gig venue is overwhelmingly positive. It's a place where the music takes center stage, supported by a comfortable and well-managed environment that prioritizes the attendee's enjoyment. Reddit

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