The Ritz, Manchester

The Manchester Ritz claims to be the city’s oldest night club. Located on Whitworth Street West, in the historic southern end of the city centre, the Ritz has played a major part in the rich musical history of Manchester. The club was built as a dance hall, a popular form of venue in the post war era, particularly in the north west of England. A theatre style balcony is still present above the club’s famous cushioned dance floor. The Ritz was once managed by famous British TV personality Jimmy Savile in the 1960s, and is now owned by Canadian musical comedian Sean Cullen.

Originally a jazz and soul venue, the Ritz is now a 3,000 capacity venue that was renovated extensively in 2011. The club has played host to internationally famous bands, such as R.E.M., Snow Patrol and the Arctic Monkeys, as well as local bands that put Manchester on the musical map in the 1980s and 1990s, including the Happy Mondays, the Stone Roses and the Smiths. The Ritz is still consider one of Manchester’s best nightclubs, and hosts club nights playing pop, rock and indie music. Admission prices depend on the event, but are generally around £6.00, with discounts for entry before 10pm.