O2 Apollo (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is O2 Apollo?
What makes it 44% Kids-Friendly: Children 8-12 may enter only with an adult and only for selected family-friendly shows; loud volumes, crowds, and no child amenities limit comfort, so suitability is moderate.
Positives:
- Historic venue: Built in 1938 with Grade II listed Art Deco features
- Multiple bars: Three bars offer refreshments, including soft drinks for kids
- Accessible layout: Step-free access and lifts support prams and strollers
Challenges:
- Age restrictions: Most shows restrict children under 8 unless marked family-friendly
- Loud sound levels: Concerts can be very loud; bring ear protection for sensitive kids
- No baby-changing rooms: Venue lacks dedicated baby-changing or nursing facilities
What is O2 Apollo?
- A Grade II-listed Art Deco performance venue that opened in 1938 and adopted the O2 name in 2003
- A stall-and-balcony auditorium accommodating up to 3,500 patrons beneath a striking red-domed ceiling and glazed terracotta façade
- Three on-site licensed bars and modern sound and lighting infrastructure facilitate live music, comedy and cultural productions
What is so special about O2 Apollo for with kids?
- Family-friendly shows like Kidz Bop are available
- Seated balcony seats offer lower volume and clear views
- Accessible lifts and foyer space for prams
- Art Deco foyer provides a photo and rest area
- Three bars serve drinks and snacks between sets
Note: O2 Apollo is 44% Kids-Friendly. You may want to consider other Kids-Friendly Things to Do in Manchester for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A typical concert lasts about 2 hours and leaves time for breaks in the foyer and queuing at bars.
Kids-Friendly Activities in O2 Apollo
Book a family-friendly show:
Look for events like Kidz Bop or holiday specials that allow children under 14.
Tip: Confirm age rules on the box office site and book early to get balcony seats.
Choose seated balcony seats:
The upstairs circle has full seating and lower sound levels.
Tip: Balcony seats cost slightly more but offer a clear view and quieter environment for kids.
Use the accessible lift:
Move prams or wheelchairs between floors without stairs.
Tip: Arrive early and ask staff to show you the lift entrance near the foyer.
Explore the Art Deco foyer:
Admire the 1938 glazed terracotta facade and sweeping staircase.
Tip: Step in before doors open to let kids stretch and take photos under the red ceiling.
Plan for interval snacks:
Three bars serve soft drinks and snacks between sets.
Tip: Bring small change (£5–£8 per drink) and grab drinks early in the interval to avoid queues.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to O2 Apollo
- Buy tickets early: Popular family shows sell out fast; aim for next holiday release
- Arrive 30 minutes early: Gives time to find lifts, restrooms and explore the lobby
- Pack ear defenders: Reusable ear protection helps younger kids enjoy the show
Reviews of O2 Apollo
Paul
Lovely venue. Great acoustics. Elis, John & Dave were hilarious. 3 stars mainly due to extortionate prices on bar (£8.50 pint) and shouty stewards shouting the obvious.
Matt H
A decent venue with great acoustics and a massive stage. The location ok but it is a bit out of the city centre and requires either a decent walk or taxi. The seating in the upper sections is a bit cramped, but overall a pleasant experience.
Kris Turner
I always complain about not enough gigs in Liverpool and always reluctantly go to Manchester. But I must say this is actually my favourite venue to go to for live music. It's a great venue to be fair. We went very recently and I've never been in a queue so large and we weren't even particularly late to arrive but it meant we only caught the last 2 songs of the supporting act which I was actually ...
Marta Harrison
Well organised. Marshalls very polite and helpful. Great to be in a circle A or H raws 14 and 15 are edge middle ones;) Finneas proved to be very talented, singing live is not a studio and he has done a great job. Parking booked on Just Park, pricey but the car was safe and walking distance away
Jessica Sinclair
Lovely 1930's Art Decco facade and interior. Originally a cinema. With the stalls floor sloping down to the stage with 2 bar areas. Surprisingly clean toilets. And great acoustics. Had an awesome night curtacy of Corb Lund supporting The Dead South
When is the best time to visit O2 Apollo (Manchester, United Kingdom)?
School holidays often feature special kids’ concerts. Check the online calendar in summer and winter and book as soon as tickets release.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult concert tickets (2) | GBP 60 |
| Child concert tickets (2) | GBP 36 |
| Interval drinks and snacks | GBP 20 |
| Cloakroom or pram storage | GBP 4 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 120 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of O2 Apollo
Address: Stockport Rd, Manchester M12 6AP, UK
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