Bowlers Exhibition Centre: A Premier Event Venue in Manchester
The Bowlers Exhibition Centre, also known as BEC Arena, is one of Manchester’s most prominent and versatile event venues, located in the heart of Trafford Park. Whether you’re attending a concert, exhibition, trade show, or sporting event, BEC offers a dynamic space for various types of events. With a capacity to host thousands of attendees, the venue is designed to accommodate a wide range of needs, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors and organizers alike.
Overview of Bowlers Exhibition Centre
The Bowlers Exhibition Centre, situated on Longbridge Road, Trafford Park, Manchester M17 1SN, is a popular destination for events throughout the year. The venue is well-connected, just two minutes from Junction 9 of the M60 motorway, making it easily accessible for both local and international visitors. BEC boasts a 7,850 square meter space, divided into multiple exhibition halls and large event rooms, offering a flexible layout for various events.
With a wide array of modern amenities, including ample parking with 800 spaces, the venue is equipped to handle everything from corporate events and conferences to music festivals and large-scale exhibitions. The BEC Arena also hosts a variety of events each year, catering to diverse interests, from comic conventions to sports competitions.
Event Spaces and Features
BEC Arena is designed with versatility in mind, providing different types of spaces to meet the needs of event organizers. The five exhibition halls can be tailored to accommodate a range of event sizes, while the VIP lounge offers a more exclusive and comfortable environment for high-profile guests. The venue also includes seven bars, ensuring that refreshments are easily accessible for attendees throughout the event.
Some of the key features of the venue include:
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Flexible Layouts: Whether you are organizing a small meeting or a large exhibition, the venue can be customized to suit your needs. BEC Arena’s layout allows for open-floor exhibitions, seated conferences, or even concerts with a large stage setup.
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State-of-the-Art Amenities: With high-speed wireless internet, ample power sources, and advanced lighting and sound systems, the venue ensures a smooth experience for event organizers and attendees.
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Accessibility: The venue is designed to be fully accessible, with wheelchair ramps, elevators, and wide corridors, ensuring that everyone can attend events comfortably.
Popular Events at Bowlers Exhibition Centre
Over the years, the Bowlers Exhibition Centre has hosted a wide range of events, from conventions and exhibitions to concerts and sporting events. The versatility of the venue makes it a favorite among event organizers. Some of the most notable events at BEC Arena include:
Comic Con Manchester:
This annual event, typically held in July, attracts thousands of fans from around the world. The event celebrates all things pop culture, including comic books, TV shows, movies, and video games. With a range of activities, including panel discussions, cosplay competitions, and merchandise stalls, Comic Con Manchester is a must-visit event for fans of all ages.
Rave Kidz Events:
The BEC Arena is also known for hosting family-friendly events like Rave Kidz. These events offer a safe, exciting space for kids and their families to enjoy music, dance, and interactive activities.
Outbreak Fest:
One of the most popular music festivals held at BEC, Outbreak Fest attracts music lovers from all over the UK. The festival features some of the best in hardcore, metalcore, and punk music, with performances from both up-and-coming bands and established acts.
Trade Shows and Conventions:
The Bowlers Exhibition Centre is a prime location for business-to-business (B2B) events, trade shows, and conferences. It is frequently used by various industries, including technology, healthcare, and manufacturing, to showcase new products and connect with clients and partners.
Why Choose Bowlers Exhibition Centre for Your Event?
There are many reasons why the Bowlers Exhibition Centre is a preferred choice for event organizers and attendees alike:
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Convenient Location: Located in the heart of Manchester, the venue is easily accessible from the M60 motorway and is close to major transport links, including the Trafford Centre. This makes it ideal for visitors coming from both within the UK and internationally.
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Ample Parking: With over 800 parking spaces, attendees don’t have to worry about parking, making it a stress-free experience for everyone.
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Tailored Experience: Whether you’re planning a corporate event or a public exhibition, the BEC Arena offers flexible spaces that can be customized to suit your event’s unique requirements. The venue can cater to both large and small events, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs.
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A Complete Package: From catering services to event support and security, the Bowlers Exhibition Centre provides a comprehensive package, ensuring that every aspect of your event runs smoothly. The team at BEC is experienced in handling various event types and is committed to providing excellent service.
Upcoming Events at Bowlers Exhibition Centre
BEC Arena hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, making it a central hub for entertainment in Manchester. Some of the exciting events coming up at the venue include:
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Born 2 Win Boxing: A major boxing event scheduled for May 17, 2025.
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Manchester Adored: An exciting fashion event taking place on October 25, 2025.
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Damnation Festival: A heavy metal festival scheduled for November 8-9, 2025.
To explore more upcoming events or book your own event at the Bowlers Exhibition Centre, visit the Official Website for more details.
Conclusion
The Bowlers Exhibition Centre offers an unmatched experience for event organizers and attendees. With its versatile event spaces, modern amenities, and convenient location in the heart of Manchester, it is the perfect venue for any event, whether it’s a trade show, conference, concert, or family-friendly festival. The range of events hosted at BEC Arena makes it a popular destination for all kinds of visitors, and with its ample parking and easy accessibility, it continues to be one of Manchester’s top event venues.
