Cultural centre

Aviva Studios, home of Factory International

Capacity: 5,000
· Address: Aviva Studios, Water St, Manchester, United Kingdom

No events are currently scheduled at this venue.

About this venue

Aviva Studios, home of Factory International stands out as a contemporary cultural venue in Manchester, combining bold architecture, flexible performance spaces and a strong identity built for ambitious programming. The venue is designed to host a wide range of events, from exhibitions and immersive productions to concerts, performances and cross-disciplinary projects, giving visitors the sense of a place that constantly adapts to different formats. That versatility makes it especially appealing for audiences looking for more than a conventional hall.

Inside, the focus is on the visitor experience: generous volumes, an industrial-inspired character and modern technical production create an atmosphere that works just as well for large-scale evening events as for more intimate artistic presentations. Visitors also value the clear layout, strong production standards and useful on-site amenities that make the time before the event and during intervals more comfortable.

Address: Aviva Studios, Water St, Manchester, United Kingdom. The venue sits within the St John’s area, and the entrance is easiest to approach directly from Water Street, with convenient drop-off points and several parking options in the surrounding city-centre blocks. For broader guidance on getting around Manchester and arriving from other parts of the city, see the text below.

About the city: Manchester

Manchester, a vibrant city in North West England, is not only a strong business hub but also one of the most appealing destinations for concerts, sports matches and major live events. The city blends a recognizable music culture with the energy of its stadiums, so visitors often get more than the programme itself – they get the feeling of a place that truly “lives” for entertainment. If you’re travelling for tickets, Manchester is where an evening can easily turn into a full weekend packed with things to do.

Manchester prides itself on practical infrastructure and a clear transport set-up, making it easy to reach the main arenas and stadiums. For getting around, the Metrolink tram network is especially useful, linking the wider area with the city centre, supported by strong bus services and a walkable central zone. If you arrive by train, Manchester Piccadilly is the key rail station for arrivals and interchanges, with Manchester Victoria also a very convenient option. For flights, Manchester Airport (MAN) is the main gateway, with connections that let you continue quickly towards the city’s event districts.

Beyond the event itself, Manchester offers varied food options and accommodation for different budgets – from central hotels to practical stays in quieter neighbourhoods with good transport links. Before or after the show, it’s easy to find a dinner spot, a classic pub atmosphere or a quick coffee, and lively districts with plenty of choice are often just a short distance from the major venues.

For a tourist “bonus”, it’s worth setting aside time for a stroll through the Northern Quarter and around Piccadilly Gardens, or for a slower pace along the canals and industrial charm of Castlefield. Fans of architecture and city atmosphere often head towards St Peter’s Square, while waterside views and city silhouettes can be caught along the River Irwell. That’s what makes Manchester an ideal backdrop: you come for tickets, and you leave feeling you’ve experienced the city’s full story.

Accommodation nearby

Airports nearby

  • MAN Manchester Airport Manchester, Greater Manchester · 14 km
  • LPL Liverpool John Lennon Airport Liverpool · 42 km
  • WRT Warton Aerodrome Warton · 51 km
  • CEG Hawarden Airport Broughton · 58 km

Frequently asked questions

What is the capacity of Aviva Studios, home of Factory International?
Aviva Studios, home of Factory International has a capacity of 5,000 seats.
Where is Aviva Studios, home of Factory International located?
Aviva Studios, home of Factory International is located in Manchester, United Kingdom, Aviva Studios, Water St.
Which is the nearest airport to Aviva Studios, home of Factory International?
The nearest airport is Manchester Airport (MAN), about 14 km away.
Where can I buy tickets for Aviva Studios, home of Factory International?
Tickets for events at Aviva Studios, home of Factory International are available through Viagogo.
Where can I find accommodation near Aviva Studios, home of Factory International?
Accommodation in Manchester and surrounding area is available through hotel and apartment partners across all price categories.

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