Hotels for Manchester Storm vs Nottingham Panthers

Ice hockey rivalries don't get much sharper than this one, with two of the league's most storied clubs trading blows on the ice. A Sunday afternoon start makes it an easy one for families and day-trippers alike, with plenty of time to grab food and a pint before or after the final buzzer. Expect a loud, partisan crowd, fast end-to-end action and the usual arena entertainment between periods. Early-season meetings like this often set the tone for how the rivalry plays out over the rest of the campaign.

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.