Oasis' Manchester Haunts and the Brothers' Legacy

Manchester, a city steeped in musical history, continues to resonate with the legacy of Oasis, even as brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher pursue solo careers.

The band's formative years and the places that influenced their music are still palpable throughout the city. From the Burnage streets where the Gallagher brothers grew up to the rehearsal spaces and record shops that played a role in their early days, Manchester offers a tangible connection to the Oasis story.

Joe Feeley, a former schoolmate of Liam Gallagher and now a Manchester tour guide, leads visitors through these significant locations. His tours highlight murals, record stores like Sifters Records where Noel Gallagher bought albums as a teenager, and pubs that hosted early Oasis performances. One anecdote Feeley shares involves Noel Gallagher punching a childhood acquaintance in Eerwood Park, leaving him with a "black tooth" – a physical memento of their youth.

A street mural by Pic.One.Art, painted on the side of Sifters Records in Burnage, where the Gallagher brothers grew up

Sifters Records in Burnage received a lyric in the 1994 track "Shakermaker" after Noel Gallagher frequently shopped there as a teenager.

Musical Tapestry of Manchester

Beyond Oasis, Manchester boasts a rich musical heritage, often referred to as England's "Nashville." Venues like The Thirsty Scholar (now O'Connells Irish bar) saw early performances by bands such as the Arctic Monkeys. The Peveril of the Peak pub, a Grade II-listed building with a distinctive tiled exterior, served as a backdrop for a 1994 Oasis photoshoot and was a known haunt for footballer Eric Cantona.

In the Northern Quarter, The Whiskey Jar has been a rehearsal space for numerous artists. The site of the legendary Hacienda nightclub, once an epicenter of British music, is now occupied by flats, though a historical plaque commemorates the bands that performed there, including Madonna's first British show.

The Gallagher Home and Family

The council house in Burnage where Liam and Noel Gallagher grew up, and where their mother Peggy, who raised them as a single parent, has lived for over 50 years, remains a significant site for fans. While visitors are advised against intruding on the family's privacy, numerous other accessible Oasis landmarks are available throughout the city.

IMAGE10 The Gallaghers, pictured from left to right – Noel, Paul, Liam and mum Peggy, grew up in a council house in Burnage. Peggy, now 83, still lives there

Oasis' Connection to Manchester City

The Etihad Stadium, home to Manchester City Football Club, holds particular importance for Oasis and their fans. The club's ongoing developments, including the new Medlock Square entertainment district adjacent to the stadium, add another layer to the fan pilgrimage. The stadium is slated to host an 11-night residency for Oasis next year, following their recent reunion tour.

IMAGE2 Noel Gallagher pictured at the stadium this month. The Oasis star clearly showing his support for the club that's currently enduring a storm of controversy

IMAGE6 Manchester City is under scrutiny, but if you love Oasis then the Ethiad Stadium, where a museum dedicated to the club is opening soon, should be on your Manchester bucket list

Evolving City Attractions

Manchester continues to evolve as a destination, offering a range of attractions beyond its musical landmarks. The newly opened Medlock Square features amenities like The Medlock, a Radisson Blu hotel with a restaurant, and Zadie's, an Italian-Japanese bar and restaurant.

IMAGE9 Italian Japanese restaurance Zadie's is one of the first new openings as part of the £300million Medlock Square development at Manchester City's Ethiad Stadium

Co-Op Live, the UK's largest indoor venue, is also situated nearby. For families, attractions like the Museum of Illusions offer interactive experiences.

IMAGE1: Exploring the city on foot means you see not only the city's musical map but memorials to those who made a life in the city, including Engima codebreaker Alan Turing

The city's charm is often found in its local interactions, as exemplified by a hotel staff member's friendly clarification of a wi-fi password. Manchester, with its blend of musical history and modern attractions, presents itself as a compelling destination for visitors.

IMAGE4 Joe Feeley, pictured wearing the yellow bucket hat, went to school with Liam Gallagher and now runs 'Rock and Goal' walking tours around Manchester

IMAGE8 A street mural by Pic.One.Art, painted on the side of Sifters Records in Burnage, where the Gallagher brothers grew up

IMAGE7 Sheffield band Arctic Monkeys got their big break in Manchester, after playing to small crowds in The Thirsty Scholar, now O'Connells Irish bar

IMAGE3 Sifters Records in Burnage got a lyric in 1994 track Shakermaker – after Noel Gallagher used to buy albums there as a teenager

IMAGE5 (none)