Burnley Mechanics Theatre
WHERE
Burnley
What it’s like
A proper theatre trip for the family, with a bistro for pre-show food and a lift to every floor.
This is a working theatre in the middle of Burnley, so what's on decides the day rather than the building itself. Check what's booked in and you've got your answer on whether it suits the kids you're bringing. The box office and bar open an hour before curtain up, and that's really your window for getting settled, grabbing a programme and finding your seats without a rush.
If you fancy eating before the show, the Mechanics Bistro does pre-theatre dining, but you'll need to book it ahead. That's a bit of a faff if you're the sort who decides on the day, so if food's part of the plan, sort it when you book your tickets rather than turning up hungry and hoping. Lunch service runs separately from 11 to 2.30 if you're around earlier in the day.
Getting in and around is straightforward. There's a customer lift to all floors, so buggies and wheelchairs aren't stuck downstairs, and a viewing platform if you're at a standing event. Wheelchair and accessible tickets are limited though, so if that's what you need, don't leave it to the last minute. Victoria Car Park sits right at the back of the building, and the bus station's a five minute walk if you're coming in that way.
Concession tickets exist for some events and cover children, students and the over-60s, though it depends on the show. Worth remembering when you're booking, as it's not automatic across everything on.
Facilities
Need to know
- Booking
- Tickets sent via email confirmation
- Parking
- Victoria Car Park at rear of venue
- Food
- Mechanics Bistro with lunch and pre-theatre dining (pre-booking essential for pre-theatre)
- Wheelchairs
- Limited wheelchair and accessible tickets available
- Getting there by bus or train
- Burnley bus station five-minute walk
- Pre-theatre dining needs booking ahead, it isn't a walk-in option
- Box office and bar open an hour before the show, not much before that
- Wheelchair and accessible tickets are limited, so book early if you need one
- Tickets come by email with a QR code, you can show them on your phone or print them
Plan your visit
What time should we arrive?
The box office and bar open an hour before the performance starts, so that's your realistic arrival window.
Can we eat there before the show?
The Mechanics Bistro does pre-theatre dining, but you have to book it in advance. There's also lunch service from 11 to 2.30 if you're around earlier.
Are there discounted tickets for children?
Concession tickets cover children, students and over-60s on certain events, so it depends what's booked in.
Is it accessible with a wheelchair or buggy?
There's a customer lift to every floor and a viewing platform for standing events. Wheelchair and accessible tickets are limited, so get in early if you need one.
Where do we park?
Victoria Car Park is right at the back of the venue, and there are other pay and display car parks within walking distance.
Can we get there by bus?
Burnley bus station is a five minute walk away, and the closest stop is The Mechanics on Manchester Road.
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