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United Kingdom/Things to Do in Manchester, with kids

Royal Exchange Theatre (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Royal Exchange Theatre?

72%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Craft days, interactive workshops, baby-change toilets, and relaxed shows welcome children up to 12, yet some plays are long and seats lack leg-room for restless kids.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 4,300 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free family workshops: Many craft and music sessions are complimentary and drop-in.
  • Accessible facilities: Lift access, baby-change rooms and lounge area make visits easier.

Challenges:

  • Show length: Some performances run over 2 hours; younger kids may need breaks.
  • Busy foyers: The lounge play area can fill up quickly before popular shows.
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🏖️ Explore Royal Exchange Theatre with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Royal Exchange Theatre. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

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 kids?

  1. Free drop-in crafts, music and puppet workshops
  2. Dedicated child-friendly shows with lap seating options
  3. Comfortable play lounge stocked with toys and books
  4. Baby-change, lift access and free water for families
  5. Seasonal holiday events and sensory-adapted performances

Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours

Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a short family-friendly show, a craft workshop, and exploring the play lounge without rushing.

(View Royal Exchange Theatre on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Royal Exchange Theatre

Family Fun Day:

Drop in 10 am–5 pm for free crafts, face painting and short performances.

Tip: Arrive early to join the busiest craft stations before they fill up.

Interactive Music Workshop:

Attend a 45-minute Persian music session with singing and games.

Tip: Check the schedule online and arrive 10 minutes before start to find seats together.

Puppetry & Story-Making:

Join free puppet shows or story sessions for ages 4–8 and their adults.

Tip: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting paint on if you join in face painting.

Family-Friendly Show:

Book a child-focused production (e.g. The Boy Who Ran from the Sea).

Tip: Buy tickets in advance; children under 18 months sit free on laps.

Lounge Play Area & Craft Gallery:

Relax in comfy seats with toys, books and browse local crafts.

Tip: Use free Wi-Fi to check show times or download a colouring sheet before the show.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Royal Exchange Theatre

  1. Book shows early: Reserve family-friendly performances online as soon as dates are announced.
  2. Use lap seating: Bring toddlers under 18 months free on laps to save on tickets.
  3. Arrive for crafts: Get to Family Fun Days at opening time to secure a spot at craft tables.
🏖️ Tour Royal Exchange Theatre like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Royal Exchange Theatre. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Royal Exchange Theatre

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Caroline Davenport

Caroline Davenport

Dec 2025

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

Reflect Clinic

Dec 2025

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

Alison Williams

Dec 2025

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

Hong Lee

Nov 2025

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

Elizabeth Cameron’s

Jul 2025

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)?

During school holidays the theatre adds extra free family workshops. In winter look out for Christmas pantomimes and book early to get best seats.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Manchester on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
4 theatre tickets (average £20 each)GBP 80
Cloakroom (2 coats)GBP 2
Snacks & drinks at Rivals CaféGBP 12
Total EstimatedGBP 94

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 Royal Exchange Theatre

Address: St Ann's Square, Manchester M2 7DH, UK

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Royal Exchange Theatre (Manchester)?

← See other Things to Do in Manchester (with kids)

About Royal Exchange Theatre

Opening Hours

Monday:11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday:11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday:11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:Closed

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+44 161 833 9833

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