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A Guide to the Lyceum Theatre
So, you’re planning a trip to the Lyceum Theatre in Oldham, where every performance whisks you away to different worlds, eh? Whether you’re a seasoned theatre-goer or just up for some quality entertainment, you’ve made an excellent choice.
Eager to get started? Here’s your all-access guide to one of Manchester’s theatrical gems, along with some cheeky insider tips from us who know the way around.
How to Get There
Driving: If you’re planning to drive, you can find parking at the nearby lots, but be prepared — parking in Manchester can sometimes cost as much as a show, without any of the drama or fun!
Public Transport: Both the tram and bus services in Manchester can drop you near the theatre, and you’ll enjoy a bit of Oldham along the way.
Prefer the train? No problem, there are stations such as the Manchester Victoria close enough to make your journey a breeze.
Walking: Based in Oldham or Manchester city centre? Brilliant! A walk to the theatre is entirely doable, and it’s a great chance to soak up the local atmosphere before showtime.
Things to Know
Address: 21 Wellington St, London WC2E 7RQ, United Kingdom
Opening Hours:
- Mon Closed
- Tue – Sat 10AM-7:45AM
- Sun 11AM-2:45AM
Contacts: +44 161 627 1032
Ticket price range: £10-£50
Parking fee: £5-£20
Plan to arrive a bit early: Parking in Oldham (things to do in oldham) can be, well, a bit of an adventure, especially if there’s a popular show on. While there are tickets available at the door, pre-booking is always your best bet to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
There is no need to BYOB: Keep in mind, the theatre bars are well-stocked for your convenience. And though it might be tempting to snap a quick photo for the ‘gram during the show, please resist the urge.
It’s all about respect for the performers and your fellow audience members.
Follow theatre etiquette: Let’s avoid the rush to the door before the final curtain call. It can be distracting and, honestly, a bit of a mood dampener.
Get there early: Give yourself at least 30 minutes to pick up your tickets, peruse the programmes, and maybe even grab a drink before the performance.
Choose the right seats: Every seat at the Lyceum offers a great view, but if you prefer being up close to the action, opt for the front rows. For a wider view, the back seats are just the ticket.
Wherever you sit, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
Where to Stay Nearby
Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station
Address: Todd St, Manchester M3 1NZ, UK
Phone: +44 161 359 7499
Pricing: £££
Stepping into Hotel Indigo, you might just forget you’re in Manchester for a second. The vibe? Imagine modern chic met Victorian elegance and decided to settle down in Manchester.
The rooms are as comfy as they are trendy, ensuring a top-quality stay. But the real gem is their breakfast.
You know what they say, “Start the day right with a proper breakfast,” or at least, that’s what you’ll say after trying theirs. It’s hearty, it’s delicious, and it’s the perfect pre-theatre energy boost.
The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel
Address: Free Trade Hall, Peter St, Manchester M2 5GP, UK
Phone: +44 161 835 9929
Pricing: ££££
Welcome to a slice of luxury at The Edwardian Manchester. This isn’t just a place to stay; it’s an experience.
The hotel itself is a beautiful blend of Manchester’s history and modern luxury, and the rooms? Think contemporary, plush, and ridiculously comfortable.
Fancy a bit of pampering pre-show? You’ve got to check out their in-house spa. Nothing beats the stress of finding your theatre seats like a calming massage, right?
And don’t even get me started on their steakhouse. Your taste buds will be giving a standing ovation!
The Midland
Address: 16 Peter St, Manchester M60 2DS, UK
Phone: +44 161 774 7051
Pricing: ££££
If walls could talk, The Midland would be a chatterbox. Brimming with history and elegance, this hotel is a stone’s throw from all the central Manchester action. The rooms are a dream, striking the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication.
And if you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat. Their award-winning restaurant is a showstopper, serving up dishes that are almost too pretty to eat. Almost.
Before you head out to the theatre, unwind with a drink at their stylish bar. It’s like an intermission for your day, setting the perfect tone for a night of entertainment.
King Street Townhouse
Address: 10 Booth St, Manchester M2 4AW, UK
Phone: +44 161 667 0707
Pricing: ££££
Ever wanted to feel like Manchester royalty? King Street Townhouse is your castle. The atmosphere is intimate, a home-away-from-home vibe, but with a touch of grandeur that makes you walk a little taller.
The pièce de résistance here has to be the rooftop infinity pool. Yes, you read that right. Take a dip with panoramic views of the Manchester skyline.
You will feel like you’re swimming on top of the world, and honestly, after the plush bed and the top-tier service, you’ll feel like it too.
The Lowry Hotel
Address: 50 Dearmans Pl, Salford, Manchester M3 5LH, UK
Phone: +44 161 827 4000
Pricing: ££££
If you’re the type who thinks, “I love hotels that double as art galleries,” The Lowry Hotel has you covered.
With its modern décor, stunning river views, and a collection of artwork that could rival some museums, you’re in for a visual feast before you even get to the theatre!
The rooms offer chic comfort with a side of luxury, and if you’ve got time, the hotel spa is your go-to spot for pre-theatre relaxation.
What to Do in Lyceum Theatre
Explore the artwork
Your theatre trip doesn’t have to begin and end with the show, you know. Take some time to appreciate the Lyceum’s impressive collection of artwork. It’s not just the performances that are creative around here; the theatre prides itself on showcasing stunning pieces from local artists.
So, go on, arrive a bit earlier and take a mini art tour. You’ll be surprised how it sets the mood before you settle into your seat. It’s like a visual appetiser before the main course!
Enjoy a pre-show dinner
Oh, you thought it was all about the show? Nope, your taste buds are in for a performance, too! The theatre’s on-site restaurant serves up some seriously good nosh.
And we’re not talking just ‘okay’ theatre food; we’re talking ‘write home about it’ cuisine.
Why rush around looking for a place to eat before the show when you have deliciousness right at the theatre? Make sure to book in advance, though, as spots tend to fill up faster than front row seats at a premiere!
Catch a matinee performance
You don’t have to be a night owl to enjoy the magic of the theatre. The Lyceum often schedules matinee performances, perfect for those who prefer the daylight or have a packed evening itinerary.
There’s something special about stepping out of a gripping matinee performance into the afternoon sun, your mind still partly in the world of the play. Plus, it frees up your evening for other adventures!
Have a post-show meetup
There’s nothing quite like dissecting and discussing a show right after you’ve seen it. The Lyceum’s nearby lounges or cafés provide the perfect backdrop for post-show conversations.
This isn’t just idle chatter; it’s a way to unpack the experience you’ve just had. Was the antagonist really villainous, or just misunderstood?
These debates can get quite lively, and who knows, you might make some new friends!
Volunteer at the theatre
Why be just a spectator when you can be part of the show? The Lyceum often needs volunteers for various roles, from ushering to assistance behind the scenes.
It’s a unique way to give back, connect with new people, and see the inner workings of the theatre world. And the best part? You’re often rewarded with free show tickets. It’s a win-win!
Join a Q&A session
After some performances, the Lyceum arranges Q&A sessions with the cast and crew. This is your golden chance to ask those burning questions about the performance, the characters, or even acting tips.
What inspired the play? How do actors slip so effortlessly into character? These sessions add an educational twist to your outing and bring you closer to the world of theatre.
Discover art at Gallery Oldham
Fancy a splash of visual art after soaking in the theatrical performances? Make your way to Gallery Oldham, which is just a short walk away from the theatre.
Here, you’ll find an impressive collection of artworks, social history, and natural history exhibits. It’s the perfect spot to stimulate your creative senses, and the regularly changing exhibitions mean there’s always something new to witness.
Relax in Oldham’s parks
If you’re looking to decompress in nature, Oldham has you covered with its beautiful parks. Why not take a leisurely stroll through Foxdenton Park or Alexandra Park?
You’ll find these green spaces ideal for a peaceful walk, a quick jog, or even just a lovely spot to sit and enjoy a snack. It’s a fantastic way to reflect on the theatre performance you’ve just seen or simply take a moment to breathe in the fresh air.
Dive into history at Oldham Local Studies and Archives
Interested in diving deeper into the local history after a historic play? Head over to Oldham Local Studies and Archives.
This spot is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, offering insights into the rich past of the area. From old photographs to fascinating records, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Who knows, you might even uncover context that adds a new layer of understanding to a historical drama you’ve just watched!
Where to Eat near Lyceum Theatre
Jack’s Smokehouse
Address: 13-15 Henshaw St, Oldham OL1 1NH, UK
Phone: +44 161 628 5895
Pricing: ££
Ready for a flavour performance? Jack’s Smokehouse is your go-to. Picture this: American BBQ meets Oldham charm, creating a palate-pleasing symphony. It’s casual, it’s hearty, and it’s downright delicious.
The ribs? Tender, smoky, falling off the bone – everything a rib should be—they’re the main act, no doubt! Pair them with a craft beer, and you’ve got yourself a show!
Molino Lounge
Address: The Old Town Hall, Parliament Square, Oldham OL1 1QN, UK
Phone: +44 161 622 4003
Pricing: ££
For a more laid-back scene, Molino Lounge is your script. Set in a fabulous Grade II listed Old Town Hall, this quirky spot serves up comfort food with character. Its menu is a diverse cast featuring everything from scrumptious tapas to towering burgers.
And here’s a plot twist: their vegan and gluten-free options are not just afterthoughts; they’re stars in their own right. It’s the perfect spot for a pre-show meal where everyone finds something to rave about.
Fresca Italian
Address: 183-185 High St, Oldham OL3 6AP, UK
Phone: +44 1457 870797
Pricing: £££
Fancy a culinary trip to Italy before your show? Fresca Italian is the stage where flavours dance a tarantella and every dish deserves applause.
The setting is intimate, the vibe is warm—and let’s be real, who doesn’t want to indulge in a love affair with authentic Italian cuisine?
The pasta dishes are what dreams are made of, fresh and as flavourful as an Italian serenade. And the seafood options? Bellissimo!
Just make sure you book because this place fills up faster than opening night at the Lyceum.
El Gato Negro Tapas
Address: 52 King St, Manchester M2 4LY, UK
Phone: +44 161 694 8585
Pricing: £££
Ready for a standing ovation from your taste buds? El Gato Negro is the place to be for a culinary encore.
This award-winning spot brings the flavours of Spain right to Manchester, perfect for a pre-theatre nibble or a post-show feast.
Now, you can’t miss out on their tapas; it’s like a medley of bite-sized performances, each one as compelling as a dramatic monologue. The ‘Pulpo a la Gallega’ (that’s Galician octopus, if you’re wondering) is a showstopper, tender and beautifully seasoned.
And the atmosphere? Picture a bustling Spanish street festival, all warm, lively, and inviting.
