For over 30 years, Manchester city centre has been home to the AO Arena, albeit under a few different names. People of all ages come together to enjoy concerts, comedians, and even sporting events.
If you’re heading to the AO Arena soon, the train could be the perfect way to start your evening. It’s a short walk from the station, and you can use the journey to relax and get excited for your evening ahead. Plus, you won’t need to worry about paying for parking, and you’ll be helping our planet along the way.
Why visit the AO Arena Manchester?
Until the Co-op Live Arena (also based in Manchester) opened, this was the largest arena in the UK. The AO Arena capacity is around 23,000, which is around 3,000 more than London’s iconic O2 Arena.
Opened in July 1995, the first event at the AO Arena was an ice skating show from the legendary Torvill and Dean. Less than two weeks later, ‘Wet Wet Wet’ took to the stage. Since then, over 31 million people have set foot in the arena and over 130 shows are held there each year.
Welcoming past and present icons of entertainment
Having been around for over 30 years, musicians of all genres have played at the AO Arena, from Lady Gaga to Dolly Parton.
Comedy has always been a big part of the Manchester AO Arena programming. Lancashire legend Peter Kay was the first comedian to ever have a show there, and he also holds the record for the longest residency at the arena.
The AO has also hosted a range of sporting events, including boxing, darts, basketball, and netball.
In the heart of the action in Manchester City Centre
Manchester arena’s location means those coming to an event can enjoy the city centre before heading over.
Those who enjoy a spot of retail therapy should head to the Arndale for the high street names everyone knows. For quirky independent offerings, the Northern Quarter and Affleck’s Palace have you covered.
If you’re planning to eat before you arrive at the AO arena for your event, there are several restaurants nearby. The Corn Exchange has a diverse selection of food options, and the Printworks entertainment complex is a short walk from the arena.
Where is the AO Arena?
The AO Arena is right in the city centre, within the complex of Manchester Victoria train station. Its address is Victoria Station Approach, Hunts Bank, Cheetham Hill, Manchester M3 1AR.
There are three entrances:
-
City Room is on the upper level of Manchester Victoria Station.
-
Hunts Bank is opposite Chetham’s School of Music.
-
Trinity Way is near the AO Arena parking entrance, accessed via a tunnel.
The arena’s opening times vary depending on the event being held there. The Resolution Points, which have replaced the Box Offices, open one hour before each event. Door information is published on event pages online, and curfew for evening events is 11 pm, unless otherwise stated.
The AO Arena has everything you need for a fabulous evening within the building. There are kiosks offering a variety of food and drinks, plus vendors selling official merchandise so you can take a memory of the evening home.
What’s the nearest train station to the AO Arena?
The AO Arena is within the Manchester Victoria train station complex, making Victoria the closest station to the action.
However, if you’re travelling a long distance to Manchester, you’ll most likely arrive at Manchester Piccadilly. The good news is that Piccadilly is also in the city centre, meaning the arena is simply a short walk or tram ride away.
Directions to the AO Arena by train and tram
Whether you’re arriving at Piccadilly or Victoria, getting from the train station to the arena is easy.
-
From Manchester Victoria (to City Hall entrance): Once you’re in the main concourse, head upstairs and straight into the entrance. There is a lift for those who need it.
-
From Manchester Victoria (to Hunts Bank entrance): Exit the station onto Hunts Bank, which is past the ticket office. Turn right, and go down Hunts Bank until you come to the stairs. Head up the stairs, and you’re there.
-
From Manchester Victoria (to Trinity Way entrance): Exit the station onto Hunts Bank, which is past the ticket office. Turn right, and follow Hunts Bank.
Turn right onto Great Ducie Street, and then right again onto Trinity Way. When you see Trinity Tunnel, head down, and you’ll find the entrance at the end.
Find the platform for trams to Bury, the yellow line on the map, then hop on a tram for four stops to Victoria Station. When you get there, follow the directions for your chosen entrance.
Turn right onto Corporation Street when you’re opposite M&S and walk through Exchange Square towards Printworks. Once you’re past the Printworks building, turn left onto Todd Street, which then becomes Victoria Station Approach.
Once you’re outside the station, follow the directions to your entrance.
Where do trains to the AO Arena run from?
Getting to Manchester via train is easy. If you’re coming from Liverpool, Newcastle, Leeds, and other parts of Northern England, you’ll find direct services to Victoria.
Avanti West Coast operates regular trains to Manchester Piccadilly from many major cities in the UK.
You’ll find services to Piccadilly from Birmingham New Street and Glasgow Central. There’s also fast service from London Euston that takes just over 2 hours to travel between the two cities.
Once you have your tickets for your event at the AO Arena, head to the Avanti West Coast website to book your train journey.
Getting an Advance ticket is often the cheapest option, while travelling Off-Peak can mean a less crowded experience.
If your arrival time is flexible, try using our Best Fare Finder to discover the lowest price on the day you’re looking to travel.
When booking, make sure to add any Railcards you’re entitled to use so you can make the most of extra savings.
