3 Best Performing Arts Venues in Manchester, Liverpool, and the Peak District, England

Housed in the city's onetime cotton exchange, this innovative venue for classic and contemporary works includes a glass-and-metal structure cradling a theater-in-the-round, plus a studio space.

Set in a prize-winning building, this vibrant theater focuses on British playwrights and experimental productions from around the world, as well as hosting a playwrights' workspace. There's also a café and a basement bistro. A nearby sister theater, the Playhouse, stages slightly more mainstream productions.

This restored Art Deco venue is one of the city's most appealing sites for stand-up comedy, theater, and more. You can also take a heritage tour of the building (tickets must be booked in advance).