The Mechanics Theatre
Location
Burnley Mechanics Theatre, Manchester Road, Burnley, BB11 1BH
Contact
Opening Times
Box Office
Tuesday to Saturday
8:30am – 2:30pm
Mechanics Bistro
Tuesday to Saturday
11am – 2:30pm
Your visit to Burnley Mechanics Theatre
Burnley Mechanics Theatre, located in the town centre, hosts an exciting programme of events throughout the year, including comedy, live music, family shows, and festive party nights, as well as being home to the Mechanics Bistro.
Tickets can be booked online, in person, or over the phone through the box office. Tickets will be sent to you via email confirmation – these can either be presented on your phone or printed out; please ensure the QR code is visible.
Concession tickets are available for certain events – these are available for children, students in full-time education, and anyone aged 60 or over.
We have range of ways that we can help and support you to enjoy your visit to the theatre if you have accessibility needs.
The main entrance is located on Manchester Road with an accessible ramp outside the venue. The box office and Mechanics Bistro are located on the ground floor and the auditorium is located on the first floor. There is a customer lift to all levels. Accessible toilets are also available on each floor.
We have a limited number of wheelchair and accessible tickets available for each performance – these tickets must be booked via the box office where a free essential companion ticket will be issued. We now also have a viewing platform for standing events.
Access Packs are available to support audience members who may need a bit of extra help to enjoy their visit. These packs can be borrowed from the box office and include items ranging from coloured overlays, ear defenders, sensory toys, magnifiers and communication cards.
Our friendly staff are here and on-hand to help with anything during your visit. Remember our helpful team are available to call during box office hours to assist with any enquiries on 01282 664400.
The nearest Car Park is Victoria Car Park located at the rear of the venue. There are also other pay and display car parks within walking distance of Burnley Mechanics.
Burnley bus station is a five-minute walk from Burnley Mechanics Theatre with plenty of transport links available. The closest bus stop is The Mechanics on Manchester Road.
There are three train stations in Burnley, all within walking distance of the Mechanics Theatre – Burnley Manchester Road, Burnley Central, and Burnley Barracks.
Take a look at our upcoming events
Take a look at what’s on. Browse current and upcoming shows at Burnley Mechanics Theatre.
Interested in hosting an event at Burnley mechanics theatre
Are you an agent, performer or artist that is interested in arranging an event or exhibition at Burnley Mechanic Theatre. Our Grade 2* listed building has played host to some of the finest talent in theatre. Here you’ll find state-of-the-art technical facilities and a variety of drinking and dining spaces, in a vibrant setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
On performance days, the box office and theatre bar open one hour prior to the start time.
Pre-theatre dining is available two hours prior to most performances however pre-booking is essential.
Concession tickets are available for certain events – these are available for children, students in full-time education, and anyone aged 60 or over.
Yes, you can. Ask at the Theatre Bar or Lounge Bar when ordering your pre-show drinks.
Refunds will only be offered if a performance is cancelled or rescheduled. On certain occasions, the box office might be able to offer a credit note – please call the box office on 01282 664400.
A History of Burnley Mechanics
Designed by Architect James Green of Todmorden, Burnley Mechanics opened its doors in 1855 as a shining example of the Mechanics Movement. It aimed to provide better education and skills for the rapidly expanding workforce to meet the needs of a changing society during the industrial revolution. Local people flocked to the venue to enjoy classes in arts, science and technology and Burnley Mechanics became the focus of the town’s cultural activity.
As a result of changing social and economic patterns the original Mechanics Institute closed in 1959. In the early 1960’s the building was purchased by Burnley Council and Burnley Mechanics took on a new role as an entertainment venue, hosting famous performers, including a young singer called Tom Jones. For the next 18 years, the building had a variety of uses from concerts to ballroom to bingo club, finally closing for extensive refurbishment in 1979.
Burnley Mechanics was re-opened in 1986 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as the town’s premier entertainments venue. In the years that followed the Mechanics has some of the world’s finest talent. It now offers a varied programme of shows from theatre and dance, to celebrity evenings, comedy and music.
Burnley Mechanics is a tribute to the people of Burnley, people who backed the rebirth when it was most needed and have supported the arts and entertainments so well throughout its history.
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