Old Granada Studios is a landmark of British broadcasting history that has been creatively reinvented for the modern era. Originally opened in 1956 as the UK’s first purpose-built television center, it was the birthplace of legendary shows like Coronation Street and University Challenge, and it hosted the first-ever TV performance by The Beatles. Today, the iconic site on Quay Street has been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub within the new St John’s district. While it no longer operates as a traditional television studio, the building has been imaginatively preserved to house luxury hospitality spaces, creative offices, and performance venues. It perfectly blends its 1950s modernist architecture with high-end contemporary design, serving as a social destination where media history meets the future of Manchester’s leisure scene.
Es gibt noch keine Touren in Old Granada Studios.
The complex is situated on Quay Street, right in the heart of Manchester city center. While the original studio tours have long since closed, the site has gained a new lease on life with the opening of Mollie’s Motel and Diner and the exclusive Soho House Manchester. The ground-floor diner and lounge are open to the general public daily, offering a stylish spot for food and drinks. The building also features Studio IV, a subterranean bar and live music space that pays homage to the site's musical heritage. For those wishing to stay overnight, the hotel offers over 100 rooms with prices typically starting from around 109 pounds. Most areas within the new development are fully accessible, and the public spaces generally operate from early morning until late at night.
It is important to manage expectations regarding the old television sets; the original Coronation Street cobbles were moved to MediaCityUK years ago, so you won't find the Rovers Return here today. However, you can still see nods to the past, such as blue plaques honoring famous stars and the building's striking modernist granite facade. If you want to dine at Mollie’s Diner, it is highly recommended to book a table in advance, as it is a popular spot for both tourists and locals. Note that the top three floors are occupied by Soho House, which is a members-only club, though the rooftop pool and terrace are visible from the street. The entire venue is cashless, so ensure you have a card or digital payment method ready for any purchases.
Located centrally, the studios are incredibly easy to reach. If you are arriving by train, Salford Central station is a mere five-minute walk away, while Manchester Victoria and Deansgate stations are both within a ten-minute stroll. For those using the Metrolink, the St Peter’s Square and Deansgate-Castlefield stops are the most convenient. The free city center bus (Route 1) also stops nearby on Quay Street, providing a cost-effective way to arrive from other parts of the city. If you are already exploring the city center, it is a short walk from the Spinningfields business district. While there is no dedicated public parking on-site, there are several multi-story car parks within walking distance, including the NCP at Spinningfields and Great Northern.
The best time to visit is during the late afternoon or early evening when the building’s neon signs glow against the sky, creating a retro-cool atmosphere. Weekdays are ideal for those who want to use the lobby’s co-working spaces or enjoy a quiet coffee in the diner. If you are looking for a more vibrant experience, Thursday through Saturday nights are the highlight, as Studio IV often hosts live DJs and music performances that celebrate Manchester's legendary sound. Breakfast at the diner is also a popular choice for visitors, serving classic American-style stacks from 7:00 AM. For photography enthusiasts, the golden hour provides the best light to capture the clean lines of this mid-century landmark without the heavy daytime crowds.