This subTOUR is all about vinyl & CD shopping featuring five great independent record stores. A quite condensed walk you can easily do by foot, which will lead you through vibrant Northern Quarter. Especially Oldham Street is fully packed with inspiring little shops and nice cafés to spend some perfect hours in the heart of Manchester.
We put together some food recommendations for you, too - just in case you need some refreshments or snacks during your shopping tour.
Eastern Bloc Manchester (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
First stop of this subTOUR is Eastern Bloc Records, independent record store and café at daytime and intimate DJ venue in the evenings. Since its opening in 1985 it is crucial to Manchester music scene, with a strong focus on Techno, Drum & Bass, House, Reggae & Electronic music. Also hosting in-store signings from time to time. They often hold pre-parties for various events, too.
Take a seat and taste some hand-roasted coffee or homemade cakes while checking out new releases. They also offer great breakfasts, if you're starting the tour early.
Food tip: need some snacks or a drink? Gullivers is just around the corner.
Venue tip: some steps away is Band on the Wall if you want to check out what's on the event calendar tonight.
Vinyl Revival Manchester (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Second waypoint for vinyl or CD shopping: Vinyl Revival. Established in 1997 and strongly dedicated to local bands from the 60s to the present. Perhaps great idea for a souvenir for yourself? Also offering a huge amount of records from Punk, Reggae, Soul, Rock, Hip Hop, Electro, House and much more.
Piccadilly Records Manchester (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Oldham Street inmidst funky Northern Quarter is heart of the city of Manchester. That's where you find Piccadilly Records, institution to local music scene since its opening in 1978. One of the best independent record shops in the area, selling a broad mixture of vinyl and CDs from Rock, Pop, to Indie, Funk, Disco, and Alternative.
Venue tip: have a look into Night & Day Café. Whether for a proper lunch, a hot coffee or for having a glance at what's on tonight.
Vinyl Exchange Manchester (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Just on the other side of Oldham Street is this record shop with a really huge selection of records from any musical genre you can imagine. That includes Rock and Indie, Metal, Punk, Alternative, up to Hip Hop, House, Disco, Soul, Funk, and Reggae. Not to forget Jazz, Blues, Folk, Country. Also buying rare and second-hand records.
Vinyl Resting Place Manchester (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Record shopping, part 4. Truly a haven for all vinyl addicts is Vinyl Resting Place. It may not be easy to find as it is located on the 3rd floor of Afflecks, an inspiring compound of independent stores. But inside, you'll find a great range of records from rare and second-hand ones up to new releases.
Shopping tip: The Manchester Shop is perfect for a git for the beloved ones at home or even for yourself.
Venue tip: not impressive at all from the outside, but perhaps a good spot for enjoying a live performance tonight - The Ruby Lounge.
Clampdown Records Manchester (Bachmeier / Ramsthaler)
Some steps eastwards is the last record shop on this subTOUR: independent Clampdown Records. Stocking anything in Rock, Punk, Indie, Funk, Soul, and Jazz. Also a great place to spot rare pieces you were always looking for before heading back to the hotel or your next walk.
This is where Rock history meets football. Learn about your favourite sports at National Football Museum before exploring iconic places behind Manchester Indie band The Smiths. Step into the world of football legends at Old Trafford stadium, home to Manchester United.
Discover the life of British superstars Oasis. Learn about the neighborhood where the Gallaghers spent their early days. Reveal the band's impressive history beyond hidden spots. This is where chart breaking hits like Wonderwall become alive. Explore the successful rise of Britpop at first hand.
90s Britpop superstars
Oasis sibling on stage as solo artist
Post-Punk from Greater Manchester
Complex lyrics about the ordinary life
Electronic music duo
Alternative meets Progressive Rock
Pioneers in three-part vocal harmony style
Hugely appreciated in music scene
One of Madchester’s pioneering groups
Mick Hucknall combines Soul & Pop
Indie Rock from Manchester
Synth-Pop duo
