Oasis's Manchester: A Pilgrimage Through the Gallagher Brothers' Roots
Explore the Manchester landmarks that shaped Oasis, from childhood homes and first pubs to the beloved Etihad Stadium.
Manchester, once the industrial heartland of England, now pulses with a rich musical heritage, with the Gallagher brothers and their band Oasis leaving an indelible mark on the city. From the council estates where Liam and Noel Gallagher grew up in Burnage to the pubs where Oasis honed their early sound, and their unwavering support for Manchester City Football Club, the city offers a tangible connection to the band's journey.
Joe Feeley, a former schoolmate of Liam Gallagher and now a tour guide, leads visitors through these significant locations. He shares anecdotes, such as Noel Gallagher's youthful altercation that resulted in a "black tooth" for another teenager, a story that highlights the raw energy of their formative years. Feeley's "Rock and Goal" walking tours delve into the band's history, pointing out the record shop where Noel bought his first albums and the pubs where early Oasis performances took place.
Sifters Records in Burnage, a second-hand store run by Peter Howard since 1977, is specifically mentioned in the Oasis track "Shakermaker." Noel Gallagher frequented the shop as a teenager, leading to the lyric, "Mr Sifter sold me songs when I was just 16." Another notable spot is The Victoria Inn, affectionately known as "The Vic," a Burnage pub where members of the wider Gallagher family still gather. Eerwood Park, also known as Cringle Park, is referenced in the 1995 song "Round Our Way."
The Gallaghers' upbringing in a council house in Burnage, where their mother Peggy, now 83, has lived for over 50 years, remains a central point for fans. While the family home is not a typical tourist destination, the surrounding areas are rich with Oasis lore.
The band's reunion has seen a surge of interest, with upcoming tours including an 11-night residency at the Etihad Stadium, the home ground of their beloved Manchester City. The stadium and its surrounding development, Medlock Square, represent a modern facet of the city's cultural landscape, featuring new dining and entertainment options.
Mancunian musical history extends beyond Oasis. Bars like The Thirsty Scholar (now O'Connells Irish bar) provided early stages for bands such as the Arctic Monkeys. The Peveril of the Peak pub, a Grade II-listed building with distinctive green tiled exterior, was the location for a 1994 Oasis photoshoot and a frequented spot by Eric Cantona during his Manchester United days. In the Northern Quarter, The Whiskey Jar has hosted rehearsals for numerous influential bands.
While the legendary Hacienda nightclub no longer stands, its legacy is marked by a historical plaque detailing its numerous famous performers, including Madonna's first British show in 1984. The new Co-Op Live arena, the UK's largest indoor venue, further solidifies Manchester's status as a hub for live music.
Developments like Medlock Square at the Etihad offer modern amenities, including the Radisson Blu hotel, The Medlock, and Zadie's restaurant. The city also boasts attractions such as the Museum of Illusions, adding to Manchester's evolution as a vibrant destination for city breaks, offering a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
