Hotels for Manchester Storm vs Coventry Blaze

Ice hockey in this country has always run on rivalry, and this is one of the oldest in the domestic game. Friday night brings a full arena crowd rather than the smaller midweek turnout, with fans arriving straight from work and the atmosphere building through the afternoon. Expect fast end-to-end play, physical contact along the boards, and a crowd that knows the history between these two clubs. Away fans travel in numbers for this one, so both sets of supporters make themselves heard.

A long-established fixture of Manchester's live scene, the AO Arena sits right in the city centre beside Victoria station, hosting arena tours, comedy and sport throughout the year. Its central location puts the Northern Quarter's bars, restaurants and late-night spots within an easy walk. Victoria station's trains and Metrolink trams are on the doorstep, with Piccadilly a short distance away. Staying centrally means you can stroll to the show and back, making the most of the city's nightlife once the gig ends.