Palace Theatre Manchester (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Palace Theatre Manchester?
What makes it 62% Kids-Friendly: Kids over five can join backstage tours, hire booster seats and see age-suitable shows; however many productions ban under-5s and loud effects may frighten some children.
Positives:
- Interactive experiences: Children can explore backstage and learn theatre history on guided tours.
- On-site conveniences: Delivered-at-seat service and booster seats ensure a smooth visit.
- Family-friendly show times: Matinee performances suit younger kids’ schedules.
Challenges:
- Age restrictions: Some shows bar children under 5; check each performance’s guidance.
- Limited buggy storage: Cloakroom buggy parking costs £1 and can fill up on busy days.
- Steep stairs: Circle-level facilities require lifts or stairs, which may be crowded.
What is Palace Theatre Manchester?
- A Grade II-listed Edwardian theatre that serves as Manchester’s principal venue for West End-style musicals, opera, ballet and concerts
- Home to an ornate auditorium seating over 2,600 patrons across Stalls, Circle and Upper Circle levels
- Featuring a Baroque-influenced façade and richly decorated interior with intricate plasterwork and gilt detailing
What is so special about Palace Theatre Manchester for with kids?
- Interactive backstage tours tailored for families
- Delivered-at-seat snack service avoids lines
- Booster seats and child-friendly facilities available
- Family-friendly musicals suitable for children aged 3+
- Accessible layout with lifts and cloakroom options
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Interactive tours and a show fit within this time without tiring young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Palace Theatre Manchester
Family Friday Theatre Discovery Tour:
Join an interactive 1h10m backstage tour on summer Fridays.
Tip: Book tour tickets online in advance; space is limited.
See a family-friendly musical:
Enjoy shows like Chitty Chitty Bang Bang or Mary Poppins.
Tip: Check age guidance before booking; under-5s not admitted to some shows.
Use delivered-at-seat snack service:
Order drinks or snacks via QR code delivered to your seats during the interval.
Tip: Scan codes early to avoid queues at the bar.
Hire booster seats:
Rent booster seats for smaller children at front-of-house.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a seat; £6 hire fee with £5 refundable deposit.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Palace Theatre Manchester
- Book tickets in advance: Reserve family show and tour tickets online to secure good seats.
- Arrive early: Beat queues for booster seats and cloakroom by arriving 30 minutes before.
- Use matinee slots: Choose afternoon shows to avoid late evenings with tired kids.
Reviews of Palace Theatre Manchester
Lisa Ledder
Great theatre, had pre show drinks in the piano bar, service in the theatre bars was quick, only negative is there are toilets off the main stalls area, you get a bright light every time someone goes in, can here people chatting and the hand dryer too! Really off-putting.
Wendy Endeacott-Key
We went to see Moulin Rouge! and overall had a great experience. The theatre is showing its age in places and the seating is a little cramped, but all adds to the ambience. The drinks I feel are overpriced and I was slightly flummoxed when our drinks to seat arrived in a paper take out bag, but I cannot fault the staff's enthusiasm to help.
lena Shiell
Friendly, polite & courteous staff. Possibly need more chairs in the areas between the bars as it was quite tiring having to stand to wait until the auditorium opened. Great seating too. Even though G5 & 6 seats were supposed to be 'limited view' they were great! Didn't miss anything. Jason Donovan & the cast were literally spectacular! It was a joyous & super sparkly production. I've never seen ...
Lisa Shale
We came here to see The Rocky Horror Show which was excellent however.... The theatre was beautiful, it is in a good location, we drove in and parked in the nearby NCP carpark (which is always going to be costly) but we paid £10 by booking in advance otherwise it would have been £20. There is not masses of room in the seats but I've had worse. It was slightly confusing when trying to find the stal...
Elaine Thompson
A lovely afternoon out in town, watching a musical. Staff were welcoming and helpful. The musical started on time and what a wonderful production. Lively, colourful and really entertaining start to finish. The best musical I've seen in a long time. I'd love to see it again and would recommend it to others
When is the best time to visit Palace Theatre Manchester (Manchester, United Kingdom)?
Book the Family Friday Theatre Discovery Tour during summer Fridays. Look for school holiday matinee shows for younger kids.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family show tickets (2 adults, 2 children) | GBP 100 |
| Family Friday Theatre Discovery Tour | GBP 40 |
| Delivered-at-seat snacks & drinks | GBP 20 |
| Booster seat hire (refundable deposit included) | GBP 6 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 166 |
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 Palace Theatre Manchester
Address: 97 Oxford St, Manchester M1 6FT, UK
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