Live music and comedy
If you're a fan of live music and comedy, you'll have plenty of options to choose from whilst studying at our campuses in Preston or Burnley.
Live music in the North West
The North West is home to some of the UK's best musicians and live music venues. With the likes of the Beatles, Oasis and Harry Styles all coming from the North West of England.
Preston and Burnley have their fair share of live music venues, hosting both local and international acts. This makes them popular destinations for music and comedy lovers. Preston and Burnley also have great transport links to Manchester and Liverpool if you wanted to listen to live music further afield.
Comedy in Lancashire
Stand-up comedy fans will have plenty of options if you're looking for a laugh in Preston or Burnley. Live comedy shows in Lancashire offer a diverse range of performers. These include touring comedians, popular household names, and talented local legends.
What's on at the SU
Check out the Students' Union for the latest events and activities taking place on campus. From karaoke and board game socials to hip hop ping pong, there's something for everyone at the UCLan Students' Union.
Discover what's onLive music, comedy and theatre in Preston
Hopwoods Tap House
Hopwoods Tap House is located in Preston's historic old tobacco factory on Church Street in the city centre. A short-walk from campus, Hopwoods has live music every Friday and Saturday night from 7pm.
The Ferret
Conveniently located at the heart of our Preston Campus, The Ferret is a much-loved music venue making a racket since 2006.
Preston Playhouse
Preston Playhouse is located close to campus and hosts a variety of local drama and dance performances throughout the year.
Penwortham Arts Centre
Also referred to as The Venue, Penwortham Arts Centre present regular live music, comedy, open mic nights, lunchtime recitals, talks and craft sessions.
Lost
Close to Preston's main student scene, near UCLan, Lost is an events space hosting a mix of live music, markets and arts events.
Vinyl Tap
Located close to the university, Vinyl Tap is a one-of-a-kind bar that hosts live music, comedy, game nights and more. The bar also has an extensive vinyl collection that you can choose from or you can even bring your own.
The Continental
Situated on the banks of the River Ribble at the edge of Avenham Park, The Continental is home to great food, live music and a dedicated events space.
Live music, comedy and theatre in Burnley
Burnley Mechanics Theatre
Burnley Mechanics Theatre is Grade 2 Star listed building in the heart of Burnley. The Mechanics Theatre is home to live music, comedy and special events.
The Sanctuary
Just a short walk from campus, Sanctuary Rock Bar is situated in the heart of Burnley. This multi-level venue offers a variety of live music performances across several genres.
The Park View
Located opposite Turf Moor, the Park View hosts various events throughout the year, including live music and themed nights.
Music festivals in Lancashire
Rockprest
Rockprest is an annual music festival held in Moor Park in Preston. The festival features a line-up of rock tribute acts, including the likes of Queen, The Rolling Stones and The Killers.
Preston Jazz Festival
Preston Jazz Festival is an important annual event in the city's cultural calendar. The festival attracts both jazz fans and general music lovers from across the region.
Encounter Festival
One of Preston's most popular festivals is Encounter Festival. The festival takes place every two years and celebrates the creativity of the county through music, dance, theatre, and visual arts.
Festivals in Lancashire
Throughout the year, Lancashire hosts a range of different festivals, gigs, and concerts. These include the award-winning Lancaster Music Festival and Beat-Herder.
