Manchester Central is an iconic venue in the heart of Manchester. It is situated right in the centre of the UK and easy to reach via Manchester’s extensive multi-modal transport network.
Manchester Airport is a major international hub just nine miles (14.5km) from the city centre. It serves more than 200 destinations worldwide including direct routes to nine US cities. From the airport, the city is approximately 25 minutes away by taxi or just 20 minutes via the half-hourly express rail service (tickets £3.00-£4.00).
Information on Manchester Airport can be found at: www.manchesterairport.co.uk
It takes a little over two hours to reach Manchester from London and Manchester also has direct connections to most major UK cities. Services arrive at Piccadilly or Victoria stations where passengers can connect with Metrolink trams for easy access to the city centre. Manchester Central is a 20 minute walk from Piccadilly Station or just five minutes by taxi. Alternatively, catch a connecting train to Oxford Road Station - just five minutes from Manchester Central on foot.
For groups of three to nine people, Virgin Trains offer a 20% discount off advanced ticket purchases. To find out more click here. Further information on train services can be found at: www.virgintrains.co.uk - www.nationalrail.co.uk - www.tpexpress.co.uk.
Manchester is at the heart of a comprehensive motorway network. Manchester's M60 orbital motorway provides easy access from north, south, east and west.
Directions:
M6 (from south – Stoke-on-Trent, Birmingham)
Leave the M6 at junction 19, just after Knutsford Services. Follow the A556 towards Altrincham and pick up the M56 towards Manchester Airport. Follow the motorway onto the A5103 (Princess Parkway), then follow signs for Manchester Central, Petersfield.
M6 (from north – Preston, Blackpool, Carlisle)
Leave the M6 at junction 21a for the M62 towards Manchester. At junction 12, join the M602 and continue to the end of the motorway (Regent Road Roundabout, Salford). Follow signs to the city centre along Regent Road, and then to Manchester Central, Petersfield.
M62 (from west – Liverpool)
At M62 junction 12, join the M602 and continue to the end of the motorway (Regent Road Roundabout, Salford). Follow signs to the city centre along Regent Road, and then to Manchester Central, Petersfield.
M62 (from east – Leeds, Yorkshire)
At M62 junction 18, join the M60 west-bound. Take junction 17 onto the A56 (Bury New Road) and follow signs to the city centre, and then to Manchester Central, Petersfield.
M56 (from west – North Wales, Chester, Ellesmere Port)
Follow the M56 past Manchester Airport. Continue onto the A5103 (Princess Parkway), then follow signs for Manchester Central, Petersfield.
For parking, Manchester Central's on-site NCP car park is open 24 hours and the most convenient option. Please see the NCP website for information on pricing and online booking.
If using a satellite navigation system - please follow the postcode M2 3GX.
On arrival in Manchester you can walk to Manchester Central, catch a Metroshuttle bus, Metrolink tram or take a taxi.
Take a look at the downloadable public transport map to find your ideal route to Manchester Central.
Metroshuttle
Metroshuttle buses are free and link the city centre's main rail stations, shopping areas and businesses. Click here for more information on routes.
Metrolink
The city’s Metrolink network is expanding and currently the nearest stop to Manchester Central is Deansgate-Castlefield. From there, we’re just a few minutes on foot - just follow the signs along the route. Metrolink runs every few minutes from early morning until late in the evening. You don’t need a timetable, just turn up, buy your ticket and the next Metrolink will be along shortly. However while the network is being improved, please do check your route before travelling. Routes and further information can be found here.
Local travel
Manchester's extensive multi-modal public transport network makes it easy to travel in and around Greater Manchester. Find out more at www.tfgm.com or phone Traveline on +44 (0)871 200 22 33. You can also visit a Travelshop at main bus stations throughout Greater Manchester, including Manchester Piccadilly Gardens and Shudehill Interchange.
Taxis
Manchester Central works with Manchester’s black cab drivers to make sure they know when the venue is going to be busy. A dedicated taxi rank is available at the front of the venue for pick ups and drop offs. Black cab taxis are readily available at Manchester Airport and both Piccadilly and Victoria train stations.