Jonathan Schofield: The Manchester Music Walkabout
Johnny James, Managing Editor
Manchester’s famous musical legacy comes to life in this walking tour around the city, which will take you from the 1960s to the present day. Treading in the footsteps of everyone from Joy Division to Oasis, you’ll explore venues and locations that were pivotal to the stories of Manchester’s most explosive bands, led by an expert guide who’ll provide unique insights and plenty of laughs.
Starting at The Bridgewater Hall and including a number of the city’s most storied venues, the tour will leave you with a rich knowledge of Manchester’s musical history, taking in The Smiths, The Bee Gees, The Stone Roses, Happy Mondays, Oasis, New Order, Joy Division, 10cc, The Hollies, James, The Fall, Elbow, John Cooper Clarke and more.
Whether you’re a seasoned gig goer or this is your first encounter with Manchester’s music scene, all knowledge levels are welcome, and you’re guaranteed to learn something new.
No stone will be left unturned as you explore the sites where hit songs were written, where legendary gigs took place, and where more than a few drunken antics were had. All while listening to the music that those places helped create, with a curated playlist prepared especially for your tour.
But it’s not all about the past. Manchester’s musical story is still being written, and the tour will also shine a light on present day artists who are doing things a little differently. You’ll leave not only with countless stories and anecdotes about Manchester’s musical legacy, but with a new wave of bands and artists to explore when you get home.
Time and again Manchester has birthed the world’s most exciting bands, scenes and stories, and this tour places you at the very heart of them.
