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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
More events and lively atmosphere
Aviva Studios
Best Time
More events and lively atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience art, football, and live music in Manchester's dynamic Aviva Studios, a venue for immersive entertainment.
"A brilliant time here, the football experience was great for my boys!"
⚽ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Football Experience
Ground Floor
Walk out like a player, hit penalties, and feel the roar of the crowd on match day.
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Intimate Gig Venues
Event Spaces
Experience live music in a warm, intimate setting with great sound quality.

Art Exhibitions
Gallery Spaces
Explore thought-provoking art installations and exhibitions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Events
Card Payments Recommended
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What is Aviva Studios like?
⚽ 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.
Concert at Factory International
The reviews are in
💳 Card Payment Ready
Have cards handy for bar purchases, though some spots might be cash-only.
🅿️ Easy Access
Getting in and out of the venue is generally straightforward.
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!
🎶 Great Gig Atmosphere
Enjoy the intimate vibe and good sound for live music events.
💳 Card Payment Ready
Have cards handy for bar purchases, though some spots might be cash-only.
🅿️ Easy Access
Getting in and out of the venue is generally straightforward.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Yes, it's situated just outside the main city centre, making it a feasible walk for many, especially if you enjoy exploring the area.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
There is no strict dress code for Aviva Studios. Visitors typically dress casually, especially for gigs or the football experience.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
Yes, the interactive football experience is a hit with children, making it a family-friendly destination.
Aviva Studios hosts a variety of events including live music gigs, art exhibitions, and interactive experiences like the football simulation.
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.
Some reviews mention a lack of restrooms on the first floor where event spaces are located, requiring visitors to go downstairs.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Compared to bars in the surrounding area, the bar prices at Aviva Studios are considered reasonably priced by some visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, and visitors often share photos and videos of their experiences, especially during gigs. However, specific exhibition rules may apply.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🎶 Music Lovers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Aviva Studios Football Experience
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.
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.
Aviva Studios as a Live Music Venue
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.
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.
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