O2 Apollo (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is O2 Apollo?
What makes it 84% Solo-Friendly: A solo adult can easily buy one ticket, enjoy live music in standing or seated areas, use cloakroom and bars, and feel safe amid staff and security, so the venue suits independent travelers.
Positives:
- Historic setting: The 1938 Art Deco design still shines inside the venue.
- Vibrant atmosphere: Standing stalls encourage meeting fellow music fans.
Challenges:
- Loud volumes: Shows can reach high decibels; bring earplugs if needed.
- Busy bars: Queues form at interval; get drinks early or after the show.
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 solo trip?
- Experience live acts in a 3500-capacity Art Deco venue.
- Mingle with fans in standing stalls or relax at the bars.
- Meet fellow solo-goers via Gig Buddy meetups.
- Explore the historic foyer before the show.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Arrive early to explore the foyer, grab a drink, and enjoy a full live show.
Solo-Friendly Activities in O2 Apollo
Explore the Art Deco foyer:
Walk around the Grade II listed lobby and admire the glazed terracotta façade and sweeping staircase.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before doors open when lighting highlights the architecture.
Grab a drink at the bars:
Visit one of the three bars serving beer, wine, and spirits.
Tip: Bring small notes or coins; bars accept cash only on busy nights.
Catch a standing-stall gig:
Choose a standing ticket on the floor to mingle with fellow fans.
Tip: Position yourself near an aisle for quick exits and clear sightlines.
Join a Gig Buddy hangout:
Use Concert Buddies to meet other solo concertgoers before the show.
Tip: Check the group chat on the event day for meeting spot updates.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to O2 Apollo
- Use lifts: Access both levels quickly by taking the venue’s lifts.
- O₂ Priority cloakroom: Show your app to store one item free and avoid the £2 fee.
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)?
In winter, lines outside can get chilly; dress in layers and arrive early to queue undercover.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Concert ticket | GBP 30 |
| Drink at bar | GBP 6 |
| Merchandise souvenir | GBP 20 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 56 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of O2 Apollo
Address: Stockport Rd, Manchester M12 6AP, UK
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