The BRIT Awards move up north

The UK's "biggest night in music" is now being held in Manchester for at least 2 years apparently spearheaded by Sony Music UK.

(Credit: BRIT Awards)

The award show will now be hosted in Manchester's brand new Co-Op live music venue marking the first time the show will not take place in London. The event has been hosted in multiple venues previously such as the Royal Albert Hall, Alexandra Palace, Earls Court and most recently the O2 arena with the Co-Op Live can claim a spot on that list.

The CEO and Chairman of Sony Music UK, Jason Iley, describes the move as a "very exciting time for The BRIT Awards" adding that "Moving to Manchester, the home of some of the most iconic and defining artists of our lifetime, will invigorate the show and build on the BRITs legacy of celebrating and reinvesting in world-class music."

The BRITs move is just one of the examples of the recent surge of the creative industries in the North of England. From the development of Media City UK in Salford, to Channel 4 opening their second HQ in Leeds, the decentralising of media and creative industries away from London is in full force.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, stated "Greater Manchester has an unparalleled music heritage known around the world, and this summer will play host to some of the biggest gigs on the planet. That was only made possible by our strong commitment to new talent and giving emerging artists the opportunities to make their name."

The move has been met with an overwhelming positive response with many feeling that the BRIT awards is finaly acknowledging the musical contributions of Manchester and Northern based artists. Manchester has been home to multiple BRIT award winning and nominated artists such as Harry Styles, Joy Division, Oasis, The 1975 and Take That and is a current home to many notable music schools and universities.

The BRITs and Co-Op Live have not yet released tickets but have stated that the show will take place on 28th of February 2026 and streamed live ITV1, ITV X, STV and STV Player for free.