A pop-up pub called The Take That Tavern has appeared on Bradford Road near the Etihad Stadium, capitalising on the band's four Manchester gigs. The venue, inside a historic Co-operative Society building, opened for Take That's concerts and will host its final Take That-themed night on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
Pop-Up Concept and Future Plans
Owner Gareth Barlow explained that the pub will morph into a music-themed bar for upcoming events at Co-op Live. He said: "The concept is focussing on Etihad Stadium and Co-op Live events and we're going to twist the venue up slightly depending on what we're catering for that evening."
Next, the pub will rename itself "The Kings of Leon Arms" on Saturday, July 4, for the American rock band's concert. When not themed, it will be known as "The Old Co-op."
Take That Experience
Inside, fans enjoy memorabilia, a video loop of Take That videos, and a sign featuring the Circus elephant. The pub opens at 2:30pm on gig days and closes at 8pm, serving drinks and a "Relight My Fyer" menu of festival food like hot dogs, burgers, and fries.
Barlow noted: "It's a five or six minute walk down the road to get to Alan Turing Way and then you're straight up to the stadium so it's brilliant for fans." Future plans include shuttle runs with tuk-tuks and themed events for Manchester City matches.
Historic Building and Local Impact
The building dates back to 1912, with the original Co-op engraving still visible. Barlow said it had been used as storage before this venture. The Take That Tavern joins other local pubs like The Townley, The Bradford, and Mary D's in hosting pre-gig parties.
