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IWM North is a striking and adaptable event space, offering a spectacular range of venues suitable for award ceremonies of every kind in Manchester. With breathtaking architecture sculpted along the waterfront and modern amenities offset by a historic background, this hireable event space is the perfect platform for formal occasions.
Each setting is as distinct as it is memorable. Utilise an immersive 360° cinematic experience at the Main Exhibition Space, celebrate in awe beneath a suspended aircraft in the Harrier Jump Jet Space, or bask by the riverside with state-of-the-art technology at your fingertips at the WaterShard. Against the tranquil backdrop of Manchester’s historic canal system, these venues provide a platform for award ceremonies guaranteed to make an impact.

Nestled by The Quays in Manchester, IWM North embodies versatility above all else, supplying the scope for award ceremonies to be tailored to venues with capacities that range from intimate to immense proportions.
The Main Exhibition Space offers the chance to celebrate against the mesmerising backdrop of a customisable 360° screen, while the Quayside’s open-air setting is the perfect place to host a vibrant outdoor event. For elegant receptions, the WaterShard offers brightness, tranquillity, and flexibility. Meanwhile, the Harrier Jump Jet Space supplies the AV-8A Harrier Jump Jet as a showstopping centrepiece for get-togethers with a thrilling twist.



No matter what your vision, IWM North can be customised to meet your requirements, providing a standout alternative to venue hires for award ceremonies in Manchester.
We know that cuisine is an important aspect of every event, and our dedicated catering teams never fail to make presentation a priority. From canapés and light bites to lavish three-course banquets, we supply menus that are seasonal, adaptable, and imaginative.
We use fresh, locally sourced ingredients, accommodate diverse dietary needs, and will always provide a courteous and professional service. Our aim is to create and serve food that enhances every occasion.


Our custom packages are designed to streamline and simplify your event planning experience. Explore daytime options at the bright and modern WaterShard, fully equipped with AV technology for corporate meetings and conferences. For evening events, the Main Exhibition Space creates a unique atmosphere. The Harrier VIP Dinner enables guests to enjoy an unforgettable culinary adventure beneath the AV-8A Harrier Jump Jet.
Our packages can include catering, technical support, and even access to our immersive exhibitions. From bespoke lighting options to flexible layouts, every aspect is arranged to give your event an advantage over other venues for award ceremonies in Manchester.

Our venues have surpassed the expectations of numerous clients who have conducted award ceremonies in Manchester. Here’s what they have to say about their experiences.
Team Building , December 2025In the lead up to the event, communications were frequent and clear - the staff were happy to accommodate any and all requests we made. On the day, staff also flexed some of the food and timings to support additional needs that were previously unknown.
The venue was clean and quiet, set up exactly as requested and the staff checked in at set intervals, to ensure we had what we needed. Overall the venue was great, the staff were superb and being able to explore the museum was a great added bonus!
Team Away Day , September 2025The event went really well. The space was good for the working parts of the meeting and the team helped with extension cords when needed which was really appreciated! The social element also went really well. We had a lot of comments about the food and drinks and that it was lovely and the session achieved what we hoped it would. Thanks so much for your support with this. I'll certainly be recommending you for event spaces with the teams I work with.
Team Away Day , February 2026Fantastic set up for our staff engagement event. It looked like a wedding. Particularly fabulous food. Will definitely book again.
Conference , January 2026IWMN team worked with us to make the event a success and provided good advice so everything ran smoothly. I would recommend using them for an event.
Conference , October 2025The venue and events team made our conference shine. Nothing was too much trouble and all our needs were catered for.
Conference and Reception , July 2025I hugely enjoyed working with the team at the Imperial War Museum North. We couldn’t have chosen a more unique and memorable events venue. The striking architecture set the tone but it was the digital wallpaper that truly delivered the wow factor. Immersive and powerful, it brought our event to life in the most extraordinary way. A standout venue in every sense.

Are you ready to book an event you’ll never forget? Fill in the enquiry form below and a member of our team will contact you.