Boasting the status of ‘the oldest active African orchestra’, Benin’s Orchestre Poly-Rythmo has been active since the 1960s, playing styles such as afrobeat, funk and soukous on hundreds of records.
Three of its original members, Vincent Ahehehinnou, Gustave Bentho and Loko Pierre, continue to drive the orchestra both live and on record – with their most recent release, 2016’s Madjafalao, attracting almost universal praise.
Un-Convention is the ultimate independent music industry conference and showcase taking place at Band on the Wall in Manchester this November.
In support of his excellent third album Dennis, Sega Bodega brings his dislocated pop and surreal electronica to Band on the Wall.
Hear directly from the people powering the music industry in both Manchester and the UK, as well as witnessing some of the North’s upcoming talent at Beyond the Music.
from £16.75
Band on the Wall bring people together to make, as well as watch, music. Join them to learn folk tunes from all over the world.
Blue Planet Aquarium is home to animals from all around the world, one of the UK’s largest collections of sharks and a 71-metre underwater tunnel to see them from!
The friendly Embassie Backpackers hostel is located in a 200 year old, vintage mansion and was the first hostel in Liverpool.
A pleasant and affordable place to stay in Liverpool, International Inn is hidden away in a quiet street but still close to everything you need.
A central option for travellers to the port city of Liverpool, PH Hostel offers a friendly, comfy place to stay.
Travelodge Liverpool docks is a conveniently located hotel, where you can always expect a good night’s sleep.
Kabannas Liverpool offers a choice of comfortable rooms, from private doubles to shared options to suit all needs and group sizes.
YHA Liverpool Albert Dock has everything you need for a comfortable night in the city, at a pleasingly low cost.
The Liner Hotel offers accommodation in style, with comfort, luxury and a seasonal menu in a central Liverpool location.
With comfy beds and tasty breakfast, Premier Inn Liverpool City Centre is always a safe bet, in an excellent central location.
The Oracle is a mysteriously classy cocktail bar with magicians performing tricks at your table, right in the centre of Liverpool
Where punk art meets urban chic, a colourful retreat for all those who want to emerge themselves in Liverpudlian culture.
The Plaza Community Cinema is truly a unique community resource with big releases, special screenings and affordable tickets.
If you’re hunting for the perfect present – a Factory International Gift Membership could be just the ticket.
from £45.00
Get priority booking on the best seats, special discounts, invitations to exclusive events and much more. Are you in?
from £45.00
Band on the Wall bring people together to make, as well as watch, music. Join them to learn folk tunes from all over the world.
Every Thursday, Ramona’s MOT Station plays host to a specially curated roster of touring bands, local artists and resident performers. All live, all free entry, all the time.
free entry
The RNCM launches its brand new Inspirational Artists series, spotlighting a huge range of touring musicians and ensembles, each bringing something unique to the stage.
from £12.50
The Bridgewater Hall’s flagship concert series brings the best international orchestras, celebrated recitalists and world-renowned choirs to Manchester.
from £8
Hear directly from the people powering the music industry in both Manchester and the UK, as well as witnessing some of the North’s upcoming talent at Beyond the Music.
from £16.75
From soul legends to fantastical opera, live art to dance’s cutting edge, we select our highlights from the RNCM’s Autumn Season.
from £8
Experimental performance, Halloween-themed cabaret and an eclectic selection of dance all take top spots in our new guide.
Don't let the cold weather get you down with this soul warming autumn selection of tours and activities.
Bookish goings-on are perfect for picking up presents for others and treats to get yourself through the cold, dark days ahead.
A host of Halloween horrors, and some big film festivals feature amongst our highlights this autumn.
Spanning leftfield pop, forward-thinking classical and heady electronica, check out our latest music picks for autumn.
We travel all around the North in this month’s top picks to bring you mood-boosting colour, a gallery playground and the experiences of artist mothers.
Take some autumnal eating-out tips from this month's guide to food and drink in Manchester and the North.
Autumn's packed with arts and cultural fun for families. Read our latest picks, from theatrical classics to interactive activities.