Printworks is a prominent entertainment complex situated in Manchester's city centre, offering a diverse range of activities and venues. Originally established in 1873 as a newspaper printing facility, it was transformed into a leisure destination in 2000. The complex features a 23-screen Vue Cinema, including the UK's second-largest IMAX screen, a bowling alley, mini-golf, karaoke, and a health centre. Dining options encompass a variety of bars and restaurants, such as Hard Rock Cafe, Nando's, and Wagamama, catering to a wide array of tastes. In 2024, Printworks underwent a £27 million refurbishment, introducing Europe's largest digital ceiling, enhancing its immersive experience. The venue is located on Withy Grove, adjacent to Exchange Square and Manchester Arndale, making it easily accessible for visitors.
What each source says
- Google Places 4.3 13,894
- Tripadvisor 4.0 449
Bar length is review volume, so you can see how much weight sits behind each score. Captured 2026-08-25.
What visitors single out
Liked
- All-in-One Destination Printworks provides a convenient indoor space where visitors can enjoy dining, entertainment, and nightlife all under one roof, making it ideal for a full evening out.
- Central Location Printworks boasts a prime location in the heart of Manchester, near Victoria Station and the Arndale Centre, making it easily accessible by various transportation options.
- Diverse Entertainment Options This entertainment hub offers a wide variety of activities, including a cinema, bars, restaurants, escape rooms, and even mini-golf, catering to different interests and age groups.
- Good Value Cinema The Vue cinema within Printworks offers competitive ticket prices, providing an affordable option for moviegoers, especially compared to other cinemas in the area.
- Impressive Architecture The building features a unique blend of historical and modern architecture, highlighted by a massive digital ceiling screen that creates an immersive and visually stunning experience.
Criticised
- Can Get Crowded Printworks tends to be very busy, especially on weekends, which can lead to long queues and an overall crowded experience.
- Cleanliness Issues Some reviewers have noted cleanliness issues, particularly in the cinema, including dirty seats and poorly maintained restrooms.
- Dated Layout Some reviewers find the layout of Printworks to be a bit dated, lacking a relaxed vibe, with limited independent food options.
- Overpriced Food and Drinks While the cinema tickets are reasonably priced, the food and drinks available inside can be quite expensive.
- Potential for Rowdiness Certain venues within Printworks attract rowdy crowds, which can be unpleasant for some visitors, especially when passing through these areas.
The longer read
The Printworks in Manchester is a large, centrally located entertainment complex, easily accessible from Victoria Station and Exchange Square via train, tram, bus, or walking. Originally a newspaper printing house, it was redeveloped into a leisure venue featuring a wide array of restaurants, bars, and a large Vue cinema (including IMAX). Many reviewers highlight the variety of entertainment options available, making it suitable for families, groups, and individuals looking for a night out. The complex is known for its lively atmosphere, offering a mix of dining, nightlife, and activities like bowling and escape rooms, all within one building.
A key highlight is the experiential environment, particularly the massive digital ceiling screen that spans the central atrium. This screen displays vibrant visuals, seasonal themes, and ambient light shows, creating an immersive and futuristic vibe that many reviewers describe as a must-see. The architecture blends industrial and modern elements, with high ceilings and metal walkways, enhancing the visual appeal, especially at night. This unique visual spectacle is a major draw for visitors. It is often compared to Times Square due to all the screens and architecture.
The Vue cinema is frequently mentioned for its reclining seats and overall comfort, though some find it can be overpriced. The cinema generally receives positive feedback for organization and polite staff. Many reviewers also praise the variety and quality of food and drink options, noting the convenience of having numerous choices in one location. There is a wide variety of cuisines available at chain restaurants as well as bars with a good atmosphere and live music. The central location makes it convenient for pre-concert meals and drinks, especially for events at the nearby Manchester Arena.
However, some reviews mention drawbacks. A few reviewers note that the Printworks can get crowded, particularly on weekends, and that the layout can feel a bit dated. Some have noted the presence of rowdy venues and troublemaking crowds, particularly later in the evening. The cleanliness of the toilets has also been mentioned. Some visitors have also mentioned the high prices for snacks and drinks at the cinema. Also, the air conditioning can be too cold for some moviegoers. Despite these issues, the Printworks remains a popular destination for its variety of entertainment options and central location.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 161 829 8000
- Website
- printworks-manchester.com
| Mon | 6:30 - 2:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 6:30 - 2:00 |
| Wed | 6:30 - 2:00 |
| Thu | 6:30 - 2:00 |
| Fri | 6:30 - 4:00 |
| Sat | 8:00 - 4:00 |
| Sun | 8:00 - 2:00 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.3 against a median of 4.6 across the 12 venues we hold for Northern Quarter, and the most-reviewed of them.
Still deciding?
- What types of attractions and entertainment options can I find inside Printworks?
- What are the busiest times to visit Printworks and when is it usually quieter?
- What is the historical significance of Printworks in Manchester?
- What kind of dining and food choices are available at Printworks?
- What other notable attractions are near Printworks that I could visit on the same day?
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
- Category labels come from the source index and are occasionally wrong — a venue may be filed under a type that does not match how it trades.
- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.