Royal Exchange Theatre (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Royal Exchange Theatre?
What makes it 56% Baby-Friendly: Babies may sit on laps for free and there are change units and relaxed shows, but no nursing room, limited pram space, and loud scenes can still unsettle infants; phone ahead to check.
Positives:
- Pram-Friendly Access: Step-free entrance and lift access make it easy to move a pram around the building.
- Free Amenities: Tap water and Wi-Fi are free, helping you stay refreshed and entertained between shows.
Challenges:
- No Dedicated Nursing Room: Only accessible toilets offer baby-change; plan for privacy in advance.
- Show Length: Main performances run around 2 hours, which may challenge very young babies.
What is Royal Exchange Theatre?
- A performing arts venue occupying Manchester’s former cotton exchange, a Grade II* listed Victorian building
- A theatre in the round housed within a seven-sided glass and steel module suspended in the building’s Great Hall
- A producing and receiving theatre commissioning and staging contemporary and classical productions
What is so special about Royal Exchange Theatre for with baby?
- Sensory-adapted shows let you step out quickly if needed.
- Relaxing play area in the Great Hall keeps your baby engaged.
- Multiple baby-change units across the building.
- Step-free access and pram-friendly lifts throughout.
- Lap seating lets children under 18 months sit free.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for a short show, breaks for feeding, and using baby facilities without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Royal Exchange Theatre
Sensory-Adapted Performances:
Enjoy shows with softer sound, dimmed lights, and flexible seating.
Tip: Book in advance and use the lift for quick entry and exit if your baby needs a break.
Lounge Play Area:
Relax in the Great Hall's Lounge with books and toys.
Tip: Visit before the show to let your baby move around in a calm space.
Baby-Changing Facilities:
Use one of three baby-change units across the theatre.
Tip: Next to Bar Exchange on the ground floor or in the basement for quick access.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Royal Exchange Theatre
- Arrive Early: Get in 20 minutes before showtime to use facilities and find a calm spot.
- Lap Seating: Keep your ticket handy to claim lap seating and save on a third ticket.
Reviews of Royal Exchange Theatre
Caroline Davenport
Just saw Singing in the Rain for our works Christmas do. It was fantastic. We all loved it. Love this theatre. We sat on high stools on the back row, stage level but view was great.
Reflect Clinic
Absolutely adored Singin’ in the rain last night! Quick G&T at Rivals bar then we were in. I wasn’t sure about a tap dancing show but its tongue in cheek nature and dashing dancers were superb. If you’re sitting on the front row though, bring a raincoat!! 💦 💦 💦 Honestly well worth going no matter what genre of theatre 🎭 you like!!! Joanna xx
Alison Williams
Quirky little theatre in the round. We saw Singing in the Rain which was amazing, with real rain! Excellent performance in a unique venue.
Hong Lee
It was our first visit to the beautiful Royal Exchange theatre in Manchester City center last Saturday to watch the Dancing At Lughnasa play, which tells the story of 5 colourful sisters, barely surviving on a farm in 1930's Ireland, and the powerful moment that changes their lives forever. I can't believe we haven't previously been to see a show at this unique multi-storey 7-sided steel & glass t...
Elizabeth Cameron’s
Outstanding in every way as a theatre. I came to its opening , and saw my first ever theatre play here 'in the round', the production was "Zack" with Trevor Peacock ( from dim memory) I remember being fascinated by the knife sharpener for some reason 🤔😅. I was there last week for the Pan African Speakeasy , prior to the showing of "Liberation " stellar performances from everyone. And all credit...
When is the best time to visit Royal Exchange Theatre (Manchester, United Kingdom)?
In colder months, the hall can be chilly; bring a warm blanket for your baby. In summer, arrive early to avoid queues for water stations.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult tickets (2) | GBP 40 |
| Cloakroom (1 pram) | GBP 1 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 41 |
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 Royal Exchange Theatre
Address: St Ann's Square, Manchester M2 7DH, UK
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About Royal Exchange Theatre
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+44 161 833 983310 BEST nearby Activities
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