We have been invited to attend the Sam Fender gig at the massive Co-op Live in Manchester, the largest indoor Arena in Europe, to review their Seat Unique lounge.

We had previously attended something along the same lines at the AO Arena in Manchester for a night at the Virgin Red Room. The big difference between the two being you can’t actually buy a night at the Virgin Room as you have to earn points by using or purchasing any of their services, whereas the big advantage of Seat Unique is that you get a ticket in the price, which obviously is a big benefit.

Arriving at the enormous arena, we were directed by the friendly staff to walk around to the opposite side. Upon entering the suite, we were shown to some seats in the actual arena, not noticing the lounge/bar behind us. When we did, we went to grab a drink and have a look at the seating and were greeted by a man at the entrance to the actual lounge on rope duty. The room is nicely decorated with some large, comfortable booths as well as tables and chairs, with a bar at the far end. Drink prices are what you expect at a large arena, and with drinks in hand and the gig now started, we return to our seats. And yes, it was the far end of the arena but with no chance of having anyone in your way. Due to the difference in seating height, we had an excellent view with great sound. We’re not sure if it’s the easy walk to the bar but found a fair few people shuffling past to go up, but a good night was had. Did we feel like VIPs? Well not really, but on the positive side, the lounge offers a reasonably priced way to see your band or artist without breaking the bank. I believe tonight’s tickets for the lounge “Hangout” experience are around £69, opposed to £100 plus for floor standing tickets – and that’s hoping you don’t have a giant in front of you.

Again, the Seat Unique offering comes with a ticket, and a bar in ear shot so you don’t miss parts of songs, and apparently you can stay behind and enjoy a drink without being ushered out after. This would be a very appealing option to anyone under five foot tall or even for children experiencing their first gig, as your guaranteed to see, so all in all not a bad idea. We did take some interior shots of the lounge itself but were informed by the courteous lady looking after us that it is having a refit at the end of the month, so it won’t look the same.

Be sure to check out the various VIP Tickets & Hospitality Packages available from Seat Unique

Review by Jenny & Geoff Griffe