Manchester City Centre’s music venue Band on the Wall has announced its acquisition of The Rose & Monkey pub, located at 31 Swan Street (just next door to Band on the Wall’s Copper Bar) in the heart of the city’s Northern Quarter.
This exciting development marks another step in Band on the Wall’s mission to support grassroots music and enhance its role within Manchester’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Rose & Monkey (formerly The Burton Arms) has a long and chequered history dating back to 1783, but in recent years has been transformed into a beloved destination for music lovers and locals alike. Known as one of the city’s oldest public houses originally built as part of the original Smithfield Markets and over the road from what was the ‘New Cross’ area of the city, the venue boasts an intimate atmosphere and commitment to live music. The pub is now a vital part of the Northern Quarter’s creative fabric with unique features, including a beer garden, small music stage, and even Airbnb accommodation upstairs; the venue perfectly complements Band on the Wall’s ethos of fostering community through music.
‘The acquisition was finalized in September 2024 with support from Figurative, a not-for-profit providing specialist impact investment in the cultural and creative sector.’ Gavin Sharp, CEO of Band on the Wall, commented:
“We are delighted to welcome The Rose & Monkey into the Band on the Wall family. This acquisition allows us to expand our footprint while preserving one of Manchester’s most cherished independent venues. Together, we aim to create even more opportunities for emerging artists and provide unforgettable experiences for music fans.”
The Rose & Monkey will continue to operate as a live music venue and pub while benefiting from Band on the Wall’s expertise in programming diverse and eclectic performances.
The pub also features a newly installed Wurlitzer Jukebox, which has been curated by American alternative rock band Pixies, BBC 6 Music DJ Chris Hawkins, and the Band on the Wall team.
Located next door to Band on the Wall, The Rose & Monkey is ideally positioned to become an even greater hub for Manchester’s thriving music scene. Visitors can look forward to an enhanced calendar of events as well as continued dedication to inclusivity and creativity, and a jukebox specially curated by several high-profile friends and supporters of the venue.
