Your Visit to Palace Theatre Manchester – Guide

Before You Arrive

Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, a little preparation makes your theatre trip run smoothly. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Palace Theatre Manchester.

When to Arrive

The theatre opens 90 minutes before the performance. Evening shows typically start at 7:30pm (doors 6pm), matinees usually at 2:30pm (doors 1pm).

We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before curtain. This gives you time to:

• Clear bag checks at the entrance
• Find your seats without rushing
• Visit the bar or toilets before the show
• Browse the merchandise stand

Tip: Aim to be in your seat 5 minutes before the advertised start time. Most shows begin promptly, and latecomers may not be admitted until a suitable break in the performance.

Security & Bag Checks

The Palace Theatre operates bag checks on entry. To speed things up:

• Keep bags small where possible
• Have your bag open and ready to check
• Suitcases and large rucksacks are not allowed – store luggage at Piccadilly station or use Stasher for city centre storage
• Hot food is not permitted inside the venue

What to Wear

There’s no dress code at the Palace Theatre. You’ll see everything from jeans and trainers to cocktail dresses – wear whatever makes you comfortable.

A few practical tips:

• Theatres can be cold – bring a light layer or cardigan, especially if sitting in air-conditioned areas
• Avoid rustling fabrics or noisy jewellery that might disturb others
• Skip strong perfumes or aftershaves out of courtesy
• Wear comfortable shoes – you may be walking to your seat up several steps

Age Restrictions

Children under 5 are not admitted to most performances at the Palace Theatre (unless specifically stated when booking). Always check age guidance for your specific show – some have higher age recommendations due to themes, language, or effects like strobe lighting.

Booster seats are available in the stalls only (small hire charge may apply). Ask a member of staff when you arrive – these are first come, first served.

During Your Visit

Finding Your Seats

The Palace Theatre has three seating levels:

• Stalls – ground floor, accessed via 15 steps down (no lift)
• Circle – accessible via lift from ground floor
• Grand Tier – upper level

Staff are positioned throughout the building to help you find your seats. Your ticket shows your section, row and seat number.

The Interval

Most shows have one interval lasting 15-20 minutes. Some shorter productions run straight through with no break – check your show’s details when booking.

Beat the queue: You can pre-order interval drinks through the ATG app or at the bar before the show. Your drinks will be ready and waiting when the interval begins.

Bars & Refreshments

The Palace Theatre has several bars across different levels. The Circle Bar is accessible via lift and also offers at-seat service if you have mobility needs.

Please note: This is a cashless venue – only card payments are accepted at all retail points.

ATG members get 25% off pre-show drinks purchased within 30 minutes of the performance.

Toilets

Toilets are located on multiple levels. The busiest times are immediately before the show and during the interval – if possible, visit when you first arrive.

Accessible toilets are on the Circle level. They include an emergency pull cord if you need staff assistance.

Phones & Photography

Switch your phone to silent (not just vibrate) before the performance begins. Phone screens are distracting to other audience members and performers, even on low brightness.

Photography and video recording are not permitted during performances. Some shows allow photos during the curtain call – listen for announcements.

Getting There

Address

Palace Theatre Manchester
97 Oxford Street
Manchester
M1 6FT

By Train & Tram

The Palace Theatre has excellent public transport links:

• Oxford Road station – directly opposite the theatre
• Piccadilly station – 10 minute walk (0.5 miles)
• St Peter’s Square Metrolink – 5 minute walk

By Car

Several car parks are within walking distance. The closest are:

• NCP Manchester Palace (M1 6NE) – 1 minute walk, 411 spaces
• NCP Oxford Street (M1 5EJ) – 2 minutes walk, 443 spaces
• Q-Park Piazza (M1 4LX) – 5 minutes walk, includes EV charging

Save money on parking:

• Use NCP code MancSaver1 via the NCP app for £12.95 all-day parking
• Get 15% off at Q-Park by booking through q-park.co.uk/en-gb/atg
• On-street parking is free after 8pm

→ Read our full Manchester Theatre Parking Guide

Where to Eat

Oxford Street and the surrounding area has plenty of restaurants for pre-theatre dining. Most offer pre-theatre menus if you’re catching an evening show.

→ See our guide to restaurants near Palace Theatre

Accessibility

The Palace Theatre welcomes visitors with access requirements. Key information:

Wheelchair Access

• Four wheelchair spaces available in Circle row R (positions 8&9, 12&13, 33&34, 37&38)
• Companion seats available next to wheelchair spaces
• Circle level accessible via lift from ground floor
• Note: The stalls are down 15 steps with no lift access
• Seats are 17.7 inches wide on average

Accessible Parking

• 2 Blue Badge bays outside the stage door entrance
• On-street bays on Oxford Street (up to Pizza Express)
• Additional bays on Whitworth Street, Whitworth Street West, and Great Bridgewater Street

Hearing & Visual Support

• Hearing loop – works best in centre stalls
• MobileConnect app available for audio assistance
• Audio described, captioned, BSL interpreted and relaxed performances throughout the season
• Touch tours may be available for audio described shows

Booking Accessible Tickets

Join the free ATG Access Membership Scheme to book accessible seats online. Alternatively, call the Access Line on 0333 009 5399.

Good to Know

How Long Is the Show?

Running times vary by production – typically between 2 and 3 hours including interval. Check your show’s page for specific timing so you can plan your evening.

Cloakroom

A cloakroom is available for coats and small bags. Large luggage cannot be stored at the theatre.

Lost Property

If you’ve left something behind, contact ATG customer services through help.atgtickets.com.

Theatre Tours

Want to explore behind the scenes? The Palace Theatre runs guided tours on selected dates throughout the year. You’ll discover the history of this beautiful Grade II listed building, which opened in 1891 and has hosted stars from Judy Garland to Charlie Chaplin.

→ Book a Palace Theatre Tour

Quick Reference

Information correct as of January 2026. Details may change.