WOMEX is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable to fully participate and enjoy the event. In this section, you'll find information that will hopefully help you plan your visit, including an overview of venue accessibility and resources available to support attendees with diverse needs.

Our Awareness Team will be available on-site, further information and contact details will follow closer to the date of the event.

For more questions about accessibility at WOMEX, please reach out to inclusion@womex.com

VENUE-SPECIFIC ACCESS INFORMATION

Manchester Central is your go-to venue for all daytime activities including the Trade Fair, Conference, Films, and Daycase Stage. We prioritize accessibility for all attendees.
The venue has three entrances which are all accessible, sensor-activated and feature Paxton Intercoms for assistance from the Control Room if required.

Daytime access: Please use the Central Foyer Entrance, more details and a live video can be found here.
Evening access: Please use the Exchange Foyer Entrance, more details and a live video can be found here.

The Trade Fair, all Conference Rooms, Registration and Check-In, Cloakroom, Internet Corner and Catering are on the ground floor for easy access. Lifts are available for all activities taking place on the first floor. Manchester Central provides ample wheelchair space and offers self-propelled wheelchairs for use within the venue.

Quiet Trade Fair hours: For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the early hours. The Trade Fair tends to be less crowded on Thursday to Saturday from 10 AM to 12 PM, and right after the opening on Wednesday from 2 PM to 4 PM.

Quiet and Prayer Room: There are dedicated spaces for moments of quiet reflection or prayer. The Exchange Lower Foyer features a Prayer Room, and a permanent Quiet Room is located in the Central Foyer.

Info Point: For all questions and materials around accessibility during the event, please reach out to the info point at the entrance of the Trade Fair Hall.

Please see Manchester Central’s accessibility page for specific information.

Live concert

Located in a grade-2 listed building, Albert Hall is unfortunately not fully accessible due to stairs and lack of a lift. However, it offers accessibility solutions including a stair climber and secure wheelchair spaces. Wheelchair access must be arranged in advance. Please see Albert Hall’s accessibility page for more info and contact accessibility@alberthallmanchester.com

* please note this page will be updated soon as a lift is currently being constructed in the venue
Albert Hall's PDF Accessibility Guide

Modern architecture venue

Aviva Studios ensures accessibility with step-free access to all areas of the venue. Additionally, accessible toilets are available on every public level. They have portable stools available to borrow if you would benefit from resting along the way during your visit. There is currently no quiet room/space in the building.

Please see Aviva Studio’s accessibility page for further information. Additional event information will be added closer to the date.

Glass building

HOME provides access to all areas of the building via the lift. The cinema screens are situated on the top floor with wheelchair access in every screen. Assistance is also available for deaf or hearing-impaired patrons.

Please see the venue’s accessibility page for further information.

Artificial lake with fountain, venue in the background

With step-free access throughout the venue, The Bridgewater Hall ensures ease of mobility for all guests. Wheelchair spaces are available on every level, accompanied by a mobility aids and wheelchair loan service for added convenience.

Please see The Bridgewater Hall’s accessibility page for further information.

Cinema main entrance

02 Ritz Manchester provides wheelchair access to the auditorium. Additionally, assistance dogs are welcome, and arrangements can be made for their care during events. Wheelchair spaces are available when booking, but limited.

Please see 02 Ritz Manchester’s accessibility page for further information.


 

Accessibility FAQ

All venues, except Albert Hall, offer lifts or are on the ground floor. Albert Hall offers accessibility solutions including a stairclimber, please see the venue accessibility page for further details.*
* please note this page will be updated soon as a lift is currently being constructed in the venue

Please contact us before the event at inclusion@womex.com if you have any special access needs, to make your time at WOMEX as easy as possible. Fully-registered disabled delegates may be accompanied by their Personal Assistant (carer) free of charge.

Yes- all venues offer a limited number of wheelchair spaces and/or designated areas.

Information on accessible parking is available for all venues. Please see the individual access pages of venues for further information.

Manchester City offers a range of accessible local transportation options, for more information please see: https://tfgm.com/accessibility/guides. For assistance with routes between venues, please directly contact: inclusion@womex.com

Yes, all venues offer accessible toilets. Please see venue-specific information for further details and contact members on-site for signage/directions.

Changing places toilets can be found throughout Manchester City. Please see here to search for nearby Changing Places toilets.

Yes, assistance dogs are welcome at all venues. Special arrangements can be made for their care during events.

Some venues, such as The Bridgewater Hall, offer mobility aids and wheelchair loan services for patrons who require extra assistance. Please check with individual venues for availability.

From Manchester Central:

  • Albert Hall: 0.2 km, 3 min walk
  • Aviva Studios: 1 km, 15 min walk
  • Bridgewater Hall (Opening): 0.1 km, 2 min walk
  • HOME: 0.7 km, 9 min walk
  • 02 Ritz Manchester: 0.8 km, 10 min walk