Joshua Brooks is a renowned nightclub, bar, and music venue located in Manchester, United Kingdom. First opening its doors in 1993, it has become an integral part of the city’s rich musical heritage, especially in the realms of electronic music and underground club culture. Situated at 106 Princess Street, Joshua Brooks occupies the lower levels of a historic building, with its exposed brick arches and intimate, atmospheric interiors creating an iconic setting for both club nights and live music events.

Over the decades, the venue has built a formidable reputation as one of Manchester’s most beloved club spaces, fostering both established names and emerging talent in electronic, techno, house, and a host of other genres. Its loyal following is drawn not only from Manchester but from across the UK and beyond, attracted by the consistently high-quality line-ups and the authentic ambiance that has characterized Joshua Brooks since its inception. Throughout its history, Joshua Brooks has withstood significant changes in the Manchester nightlife scene and has occasionally faced threats of closure or redevelopment, particularly as the surrounding area has modernized.

Despite these challenges, it has remained a steadfast institution. The venue underwent a substantial refurbishment and relaunch in 2021, upgrading its sound system, bar areas, and overall infrastructure while retaining the underground spirit and layout that have made it so special. Its resilience is a testament to its significance within Manchester’s cultural landscape, playing a formative role in the careers of numerous DJs and live acts and serving as an incubator for the city’s dynamic music scene.

Manchester’s Joshua Brooks is especially notable for being one of the first venues where The Chemical Brothers (then known as The Dust Brothers) held a residency during the early 1990s, a period widely credited as foundational to their future international success. The venue has hosted a roll-call of world-class acts alongside influential local artists, cementing its status as a launchpad for talent across generations. Notable artists who have performed at Joshua Brooks include The Chemical Brothers, Laurent Garnier, Carl Cox, Andy C, Sasha, Eats Everything, Solardo, Mark Ronson, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Elrow’s Toni Varga, Greg Wilson, Paul Woolford, Jamie Roy, Mason Maynard, Rich Reason, and a host of Manchester-based talents such as Chimpo and Chunky.