The Button Warehouse: Macclesfield's newest stage for live music

Macclesfield has a proud musical heritage, and a venue on Chestergate is doing its bit to write the next chapter. The Button Warehouse, a bar, live music and comedy venue in a converted historic mill and warehouse building, has quickly become one of the town's go-to spots for an evening of live performance.

The business is run by Gemma and Simon, who took over the premises in November 2018, initially running it as a cafe bar. Over the following years music became an ever bigger part of the offer, and in 2024 the couple invested in an extensive transformation, moving the operation upstairs and creating a space designed as both a bar and a dedicated live music venue.

The new-look venue fully opened in 2025, and its listings now cover everything from singer-songwriters to bands and comedy. Thursday evenings bring the Button Live Lounge, an upstairs showcase for singer-songwriters from 8pm, and there is live music on Sundays too.

Reviews from performers and audiences frequently single out Gemma for her organisation, generosity and reliability in running events, the kind of personal touch that matters enormously to musicians on the grassroots circuit. In an era when small venues across the country face real pressures, a team willing to invest in a purpose-built music room is something to celebrate.

The building itself adds to the atmosphere. Macclesfield's mills and warehouses are a reminder of the town's silk and textile past, and the venue's name sits comfortably within that heritage. Today, the exposed character of the old warehouse makes a fitting backdrop for an intimate gig.

Its Chestergate address puts it right in the heart of the town centre, within easy reach of Macclesfield's other independent bars and restaurants and a short walk from the railway station, making it simple to build a night out around a show.

For music lovers in East Cheshire, it is a welcome addition to the gig map, and one well worth supporting. Whether you fancy a quiet drink with an acoustic soundtrack or a full-blown band night, it is worth checking the listings before you head out.

The Button Warehouse is at 44-48 Chestergate, Macclesfield SK11 6BA. Upcoming events are listed at thebuttonwarehouse.co.uk.