Castlefield Bowl

You'll find yourself in one of the country's most atmospheric outdoor venues, nestled in the Victorian railway arches of Castlefield's industrial heritage quarter. The sloped grass banks create natural stadium seating that puts you right in the action, whether you're catching Kaiser Chiefs on a summer evening or swaying to Sigrid as the sun sets over the canals. The sound carries beautifully across the bowl-shaped arena, and there's something magical about hearing your favourite band echo off those red brick railway viaducts. Yes, it's Manchester so pack a waterproof, but when the weather plays ball, this beats any indoor venue hands down. The bars stay busy but move quickly, and you're a five-minute walk from Deansgate if you fancy carrying the night on.