Manchester Academy (Manchester)

Indisputably known to most simply as a music venue, following the MEN and Apollo in Manchester's venue size and capacity, Manchester Academy is actually part of The University of Manchester. The building comprises of 4 gig venues as well as meeting rooms, a ticket office, student union offices and other services, and a main bar. Positioned on Oxford Road, Manchester Academy is both in prime position for the students, and for the journeying public, directly on major bus routes - Oxford Road train station is also a 10 minute walk away. Manchester Academy in its entirety is spread out over several floors, club academy in fact being at basement level. This is the ...  Read the complete review

The Manchester Academy brand actually comprises 3 separate concert venues in 2 buildings along Oxford Road, just outside the city centre, and easily accessible on one of the busiest bus routes in Europe, and with parking facilities nearby. The largest of the venues (Academy 1) has recently finished a large refurbishment project, and now boasts a 2000 capacity venue, improved bar and restroom facilities, VIP balcony and disabled viewing area, whilst still being trendy enough to attract big names and up-and-coming acts to perform there. On the face of it, the Academy 1 resembles a large drama studio, the main stage facing out into a square room with black ...  Read the complete review

As a venue, Manchester Academy has to be one of the best I've ever been to. There are three parts to the academy so my review will be split up between the different stages. (If you want to read about the history, and about all the different bands who have played/are playing visit http://www.manchesteracademy.net/) Academy 1 Academy 1 is the largest of the three rooms and has its own building just next to the Student Union. It's recently been refurbished and now is easier to get in/out of and has a large foyer and large bar before you can get into the main room. The staff at the bar and on the door are generally friendly and helpful, and the security are ...  Read the complete review

The academy can be a bit hit and miss. Some nights there can be amazing and some can be regrettable to say the least. What you can guarantee though is that everyone there will be absolutely plastered and your chances of pulling are very high. A word of warning is do not wear your best shoes or trousers. You will be covered in filth up to your knees from god knows where and the sticky floor means you will probably lose your trainers unless you have a screwdriver to prise them free with. The drinks and entrance prices are student friendly and you are always guaranteed a few cheap touts outside if your chosen night is 'sold out'. ...  Read the complete review