Legendary singer Michael Bublé is heading to Manchester this weekend, for two massive gigs at the AO Arena.
The Canadian crooner is bringing his Higher Tour across the UK in spring, with massive arena shows booked in over the coming weeks.
With 11 studio albums to his name, Michael Bublé has been named by Billboard as the third top Canadian artist of all time, beaten only by Celine Dion and Shania Twain.
He’s pretty well-known for his Christmas albums, which routinely get wheeled out every December, and released his latest record Higher in March last year.
Here’s everything you need to know about Michael Buble’s AO Arena gig this weekend.
Yes! There’s still quite good availability for both nights at the AO Arena.
The cheapest tickets are £64.95 each, which will see you popped up in the upper tier of the seating in the huge arena.
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Then there are other tickets priced at £87.50, and at £109.95.
You can see the latest availability and book your tickets at Ticketmaster here.
When is Michael Bublé playing at the AO Arena Manchester?
Michael has added two Manchester dates to his UK tour, which also includes stops in Leeds, Newcastle and London.
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He’ll be in Manchester at the AO Arena on both Friday 21 and Saturday 22 April.
Then he’s off on the road again, with a night at the First Direct Arena in Leeds, two shows at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro, one at P&J Live in Aberdeen, two nights at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle, one gig in Cardiff, and two shows in Birmingham.
Michael Bublé. Credit: Publicity picture / Evaan Kheraj
Who is supporting?
No one. He’s riding solo.
Okay, moving on…
What are the stage times?
The doors to the AO Arena will open at 6pm for both shows, on Friday and Saturday.
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The show is expected to start at 7.30pm, but as always, this is subject to change.
Make sure to leave yourself plenty of time to get in, clear security and find your seat.
It’s hard to know exactly what songs Michael will play, although he will, of course, wheel out his big hit ‘Haven’t Met You Yet’.
It’ll be a night of gorgeous covers and big-band hits.
The below is the setlist he used when he opened the UK leg of his tour in London last month.
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Feeling Good (Anthony Newley cover)
Haven’t Met You Yet
L-O-V-E (Nat King Cole cover)
Such a Night (Clyde McPhatter & The Drifters cover)
Sway (Dean Martin cover)
When You’re Smiling (Seger Ellis cover)
Home
Everything
Higher
Hold On
Smile (Charlie Chaplin cover)
I’ll Never Not Love You
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis Presley cover)
You’re the First, the Last, My Everything (Barry White cover)
It’s a Beautiful Day
Cry Me a River (Julie London cover)
Smile (Charlie Chaplin cover)
How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You) (Marvin Gaye cover)
Save the Last Dance for Me (The Drifters cover)
You Were Always on My Mind (Gwen McCrae cover)
About the AO Arena
The AO Arena has a few strict policies to keep gig-goers safe, so make sure to check entry requirements carefully before you travel.
For example, only one small bag per person is allowed, and bags like backpacks, travel cases and laptop bags are not permitted inside the arena.
All bags are scanned on entry to check for prohibited items like laser pens, flares, projectiles, weapons, drugs and alcohol, and even selfie sticks.
Featured image: Publicity picture
Manchester
10 beautiful summer walks you can do within an hour of Manchester
Lydia Mastrolonardo
As much as we all love Manchester city centre, it’s fair to say we all need a little break from the busyness of the city from time to time – and what better timing for us to explore than during this glorious July weather.
I am all too aware of the temperatures that we endured during the Great Hellish Heatwave of June 2026, but now that it has slightly cooled to a more manageable climate – it’s about time we start exploring our local area and make the most of this sunshine, before it’s gone.
With that said, these are amazing walks no matter the weather so if it is still a little too hot for you, stay safe and just wait until a cooler day.
Now for those interested, freeze those water bottles, grab the suncream and a packed lunch, and let me walk you through your options.
Prewarning – it may be wise to download the All Trails app for some of these to avoid getting lost.
Chee Dale Stepping Stones and Monsal Trail – Buxton
Chee Dale stepping stones. Credit: Geograph, Andrew HillCycling the Monsal Trail. Credit: The Manc Group
This one is a little further afield, at about an hour from Manchester city centre, but is well worth the trip.
The Chee Dale Stepping Stones and Monsal Trail takes you along the River Wye, through some disused railway tunnels, old lime kilns and over – you guessed it – lots of stepping stones.
This route expertly combines history with an exciting alternative to walking on a regular path – just make sure you wear some grippy shoes to avoid slipping in and your mates laughing at you.
The walk is just over 5k and should take around 90 minutes. After all of that walking, why not reward yourself with a crisp post-walk pint at one of the lovely pubs nearby, we suggest The Castle or The Anglers Rest.
This has got to be one of our favourites, it really does have a bit of everything, from ruins and viaducts, to llamas and canals – what more could you ask for?
Hop off the train at New Mills Central to find this 3.2k route which can take between 30 minutes to an hour. There are many variations of this walk on All Trails so you can cater for whatever length and difficulty you desire.
One thing is for certain – you must stop for an obligatory pint at the Torr Vale Tap, an 18th century cotton mill overlooking the Millennium Walkway, and have a browse at the cheese, beers and wines at The Cheese Wheel shop.
Visit Todmorden’s ‘secret beach’ only a 25 minute train from Manchester Victoria.
Follow the trail to Gaddings Dam where you will find a sandy shoreline, sheltered from the wind, making it a perfect sun trap to relax. The water is freezing though so we don’t recommend swimming, especially if you’re on your own.
Todmorden is known for its cute cafes and pubs but the Shepherds Rest Inn, serving hearty homemade food, would have to be our recommendation.
If you’re up for a bit of a longer varied walk, head over to Bolton for this 9km route.
It has great views, a peaceful wooded area and lots of animals to spot along the way, including beautiful horses and some sheep.
Not to mention this route takes you through the Rivington Terraced Gardens which feature hidden paths and restored Japanese and Italian lakes with historical architecture designed by legendary garden designer, Thomas H. Mawson.
It is such an interesting walk and not one to miss.
The Trinnacle Trail Walk from Dovestone Reservoir – Oldham
The Trinnacle above Dove Stone Reservoir. Credit: Instagram @joe.dambra
This is a little more of a challenging route through Saddleworth Moor, consisting of incline walking and a scramble up a waterfall but the views from the top, where you can spot Manchester’s beautiful skyline, make it worth the effort. Alternatively you can do a shorter circular walk around the reservoir itself.
Whichever route you pick, be sure to treat yourself to a post-walk ice cream from the van that can often be found in Dovestones Reservoir car park during the summer months.
Be warned – the parking can fill quickly to be sure to get down early and park considerately. If you are taking public transport, get the train to Greenfield Station and then either a short bus, taxi or a 40 minute walk to get to your starting point.
Deer resting on the lawn at Dunham Massey. Credit: Arnhel de Serra
This historic National Trust offers 200-acres of flat land, perfect for a family friendly, leisurely stroll and the chance to spot some fallow deer. Not to mention the iconic rose garden in summer
Simply hop on the Metrolink to Altrincham from the city centre, followed by a short 10-minute bus ride to arrive at this idyllic wildlife filled spot.
With it being a National Trust you do have to pay entry but with family packages from £16.50, we think it’s well worth it. If you want to do a deeper dive into the history of Dunham Massey you can pay that bit extra for a visit inside of the 18th century house filled with treasures.
Hollingworth Lake Circular – Littleborough
Another super relaxing accessible option, with the whole circumference of the lake being paved so that it’s wheelchair and pram friendly. It is around 4km long and so should take between 45-90 minutes to complete, with a cafe halfway round for some waterside dining. This is a great spot for some wildlife spotting and occasionally there are some watersports taking place on the lake too.
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This walk is only 20 minutes on the train from Manchester Victoria station to Smithy Bridge.
While you’re there, why not head over to the Wine Press pub which has an amazing food menu, lakeside views and beer garden – it would be rude not to.
This is another one for you history-lovers, less than 30 minutes away from Manchester Piccadilly is where you can find the Chinley Churn and Cracken Edge route.
Expect panoramic views of the Peak District and relics from the Cracken Edge Quarry which historically mined slate during the 1800s.
It’s important to note this one isn’t as accessible with a few steep areas, loose rocky patches and depending on the weather it can be muddy – make sure you have some sturdy walking shoes.
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Another cracking post-walk pub is The Old Hall Inn. It has sensational pub grub and the perfect pub garden for this weather.
Hardcastle crags and Heptonstall – Hebden Bridge
A walk around Hardcastle Crags in Autumn. Credit: The Manc GroupA walk around Hardcastle Crags in Autumn. Credit: The Manc Group
Another great walk only 30 minutes away by train, from Manchester Victoria, is this 12k circular route starting in a lovely market town, Hebden Bridge.
This trail follows the river with some waterfalls and stepping stones, through a shady woodland area, perfect for a break from the sun.
At the half way point there is also a cafe and bookshop at the historic Gibson Mill to pause, grab a drink or some snacks to re-energise before carrying on along the trail.
On your way back, you follow a path along the canal which is lined with quaint pubs and cafes for you to treat yourself – you deserve it.
The swan boats at Heaton ParkHeaton Park in Manchester
Lastly, head on over to Prestwich for a peaceful loop around Heaton Park.
This historic green space has something for everyone, from play areas and animal centre, to the boating lake, bowls pavilion, and iconic 18th-century Heaton Hall.
It is relatively flat making it accessible for all fitness levels and makes the perfect day out for the whole family. Go on get it on your list.
There you are, I’ve done the hard work for you – now get outside and touch some grass.
Local music student issues appeal over stolen saxophones just months after graduation
Danny Jones
A local music student has issued a heartbreaking appeal after two of his saxophones, one of which possessed a deep sentimental attachment, were stolen in Manchester not long after graduating from his degree.
Conor Parker-Delves, who only recently finished his undergrad degree at the Royal Northern College of Music, has dreams of performing professionally, but a sad twist of fate now means that he’s currently without the key tool he needs to make a living.
Having worked so hard up to this point in completing his studies, the 22-year-old was left gutted when the pair of extremely valuable instruments were stolen from his car after parking it in the Longsight area.
The still green graduate believes the items were originally kept at an address just south of Whitworth Park, along with some of his other stolen belongings, which he says were nearly resold on the high street in Moss Side.
Credit: Handouts (via Conor Parker-Delves)
What’s more is that one of these saxes belonged to his late granddad on his mother’s side, who sadly died when he was very young, and he’s been proudly playing it throughout his childhood. A gut-wrenching loss not just for him but for his family.
Speaking to The Manc, he said: “I have played on that sax ever since his passing and have kept the legacy alive. Losing this sax means losing him, and I am going to fight against this as hard as I can for as long as I can.”
A worn silver Selmer Mark VI alto saxophone (serial number: 240580) and a tenor sax of the same brand (SN: 91928) are estimated to be worth a combined £12,000 – funds a fresh graduate like Conor simply doesn’t have.
Given the connection to his grandad, it’s safe to say that he’s not ready to give up and say goodbye to the priceless heirloom, and being stuck without any means of playing is just cruel.
Unfortunately, Greater Manchester Police have already closed the case despite a “promising lead” that looks to have been exhausted, and now he’s been left with no other option than to issue a renewed appeal to the public.
It may only be a slim chance, but the London-born aspiring musician is hoping that the woodwind duo can be recovered, acknowledging that it is “much easier for the saxes to be handed in if they are come across” rather than be replaced.
Things are hard enough for artists these days as it is, especially those who have already spent their time and money uprooting their lives and moving to a big new city like Manchester.
We encourage anyone with any potentially useful information to get in touch and/or report to GMP online, via the non-emergency 101 number, or get in touch with Crimestoppers anonymously.
Fingers crossed we can get the tools of Conor’s craft and his grandfather’s before him back safe and sound – can you help?
Daisy Jackson -
20th April 2023 
