Events at Lowry

A stylish, modern room with quayside views for dinners up to 60. Ideal for celebrations.

From: £450 per person

Capacity: Up to 100 guests

Business at The Midland Hotel

A luxurious conference suite in an iconic Manchester hotel, ideal for meetings and events.

From: £100 per person

Capacity: Up to 60 guests

Business at The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel

From: £32 per person

Capacity: Up to 120 guests

Events at Imperial War Museum North

A unique gallery with a Harrier Jump Jet, ideal for receptions, parties, and dinners for up to 120.

From: £1200 per person

Capacity: Up to 320 guests

Weddings at Chetham's Library

From: £500 per person

Capacity: Up to 100 guests

Other at Emirates Old Trafford

A 250-room hotel with gym, restaurants, and event space at a renowned cricket stadium in Manchester.

From: £99 per person

Capacity: Up to 70 guests

Weddings at Manchester Hall

A stunning historic venue with elegant decor, ideal for weddings and events up to 150 guests.

From: £76 per person

Capacity: Up to 150 guests

Weddings at fivefourstudios

From: £600 per person

Capacity: Up to 60 guests

Business at The Lowry Hotel

A spacious pre-function area with river views, ideal for receptions and refreshments.

From: £45 per person

Capacity: Up to 110 guests

Dining at The Alan

From: £200 per person

Capacity: Up to 62 guests

How much deposit is required for a dry hire venue in Manchester?

Typical deposits range from 25%–50% of the total hire fee, payable on booking. For a £400/day rate expect a £100–£200 deposit. The balance is due 30 days before the event. Deposits secure your date and cover initial costs.

What AV requirements should I check for a 50-person dry hire event?

Confirm built-in PA, lapel or handheld mics, projector lumens (3,000+), screen size (min 2m width) and HDMI/SDI inputs. Ask if a technician is onsite or billed extra (£200–£350/day). Check speaker wattage (500W+) for clear coverage.

Which transport links best serve Manchester dry hire venues?

Central venues are a 5-minute walk from Piccadilly and Victoria stations. Metrolink lines (Altrincham, Bury, East Didsbury) stop at St Peter’s Square. Bus routes 1, 3 and 52 link Deansgate to Salford. Airport Express tram runs every 12 minutes to city centre.

Can I bring my own caterers to a Manchester dry hire venue?

Yes—dry hire by definition means external caterers are allowed. Verify any corkage fees (£2–£5/head) and kitchen access hours. Some venues require caterers to hold food hygiene level 2 certificates.

How far in advance should I book a dry hire venue for 50 in Manchester?

Book 4–6 months ahead for peak days (Wed–Fri). Early booking secures the best rates (£300–£450/day) and preferred dates. For Jan–Feb low season, 8–12 weeks can suffice. Always reconfirm 6–8 weeks out to lock in suppliers and equipment.

What insurance cover is needed for a 50-person dry hire event?

Secure public liability cover of at least £5m and employer’s liability if you have staff. Some venues also ask for hirer’s all-risks cover (£1m+). Policies start from £50/day through specialist event insurers.

What is the typical day rate for a 50-person dry hire in Manchester?

Expect £300–£450/day for a central blank-canvas space with basic utilities. Rates rise to £500–£650/day in the Northern Quarter or gallery-style venues. Weekend bookings can incur a 10–20% premium. Always check if tables, chairs and basic lighting are included.

Do dry hire venues in Manchester require event licences?

If serving alcohol you need a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) from Manchester City Council (apply 10 working days prior). For live music you may need a music licence—confirm with your venue. TENs cost £21 per event.

How much power capacity do I need for a 50-guest dry hire event?

Specify at least four 32A circuits (7kW each) plus six standard 13A sockets for AV, catering and lighting. Total load should be 30kW to avoid breaker trips. Request a load-in test during your site visit.

What parking options are available near Manchester dry hire spaces?

Use on-street bays (£2.50/hr, max 4hrs) or NCP multi-storeys (£12–£18/day). Blue-badge holders park free in marked bays. Loading-bay permits (£10/day) can be arranged via council 5 days ahead. Check local restrictions after 6pm.

What key questions should I ask when viewing a dry hire space?

Ask about maximum capacity (seated vs standing), power outlets (min four 32A sockets), Wi-Fi speed (100Mbps+), AV hire fees and noise curfews. Confirm delivery access dimensions, supplier restrictions and clean-up deadlines. Request an up-to-date floorplan.

What cancellation terms apply to dry hire venue bookings?

Standard terms: full refund if cancelled >12 weeks out, 50% refund 6–12 weeks prior, no refund within 6 weeks. Some venues offer credit vouchers for rescheduling within 6 months. Always confirm in writing.