Britain dances to its own beat – and so can you at our world-famous music venues. Whether you’re lucky enough to be watching a sold-out Oasis concert in Manchester, clapping along to a Beatles tribute act in Liverpool’s Cavern Quarter or grooving to an up-and-coming act at the Barrowland Ballroom, there’s something here for lovers of every genre. From old churches to cliffside theatres, our theatres and music halls are bringing the atmosphere to your next gig.
Britain has a long and proud musical history – from its pop pioneers the Beatles, to Britpop legends Oasis and Blur, right up to its diverse music industry today. The nation’s dynamic music scene resounds all over the country – meaning you can have a rocking time wherever you are. Relive the Beatles’ experience in Liverpool, go to the heart of “Madchester”, or get Ziggy with it at some of David Bowie’s London landmarks. Watch world-class acts play in some of the best stadiums on the planet, or enjoy an unforgettable gig at one of Britain’s historic and quirky small venues.
This toe-tapping museum puts Coventry’s rich musical heritage in the spotlight – from rock and pop, to ska and punk. It is jam-packed with vinyl records, memorabilia, artwork and ephemera, and tells the story of the city through its many musical passions, including home-grown bands and labels. A treat for music lovers, with a cafe and memorabilia shop too.
Rock, pop, punk and rave your way through Britain’s popular music history at the British Music Experience. Featuring a mix of images, video and music memorabilia, the museum has items from Oasis to Queen, the Spice Girls to The Rolling Stones.
Manchester has produced much of Britain’s best pop music, including Joy Division, New Order, The Smiths, Happy Mondays, The Stone Roses and Oasis. Take a tailored tour of your favourite band with Manchester Music Tours, then visit Salford Lads Club, where The Smiths were photographed for their album, The Queen Is Dead, followed by the “Joy Division Bridge”, The Epping Walk Bridge, where the band posed for their famous image.
Discover the story of the Fab Four from their humble Liverpool beginnings, to their world-conquering 1960s success and solo careers. There are bags of Beatles items on display at this museum, including John Lennon’s glasses, Ringo Starr’s drum kit, rare album sleeves, and original handwritten lyrics. You can also explore recreations of locations from the Beatles’ past, from The Cavern Club to Abbey Road Studios.
Another famous destination for Beatles fans is Abbey Road Studios in North London. You can write on the graffiti wall, visit the shop and, yes, do that walk across the zebra crossing, waving at the Abbey Road webcam and looking back on your footage later. Abbey Road is near St John’s Wood tube station.
