6 Best Bars in Liverpool, Manchester, Liverpool, and the Peak District

Music, art, and science events are all in the mix at this long-standing venue reinvented as a creative space and bar.

This huge venue in a former Edwardian foundry and blade-making factory retains a suitably industrial vibe for its club nights, live music, food festivals, exhibitions, and art installations.

While not the original venue—that was demolished years ago—this is still a popular music spot, drawing in rock-and-roll fans with its live acts including Beatles tribute bands.

This quirky entertainment complex in a former warehouse near the river just north of the city center bills itself as a cultural theme park of the future. Expect live music and makers' workshops, as well as on-site artists' studios and a garden. There's now a Rollerdome with skating sessions and classes.

Owned by the Invisible Wind Factory, this eccentric outdoor venue (with heaters) hosts live music accompanied by food from its barbecue. It also has a vintage boutique and an art gallery.

Big-name acts mean this intimate venue often gets packed to the rafters, but that only adds to the clubby vibe. There are also club nights that range from hip-hop to indie, vintage fairs, plus a menu of well-executed comfort food.