Many of Manchester's iconic clubbing institutions from the '90s, the city's techno heyday, have since closed. But there is still much to celebrate. There are still legions of techno acolytes travelling to the Northern powerhouse to get a taste of its unique sound, enthused to explore its several popular venues. Thanks to these spaces, this fast-paced, dynamic genre remains at the forefront of an ever-evolving local scene.

The White Hotel

Dickinson St, Salford M3 7LW

The White Hotel rests on the outskirts of Salford among derelict industrial warehouses. It's built itself a fierce reputation as one of Manchester's heavyweight techno venues. The garage-turned-nightclub has become synonymous with nocturnal raving within the UK, all thanks to its rough-and-ready nature, complemented by a concrete dance floor and dynamic lighting. Standout nights in this iconic venue include Meat Free, Project 13 and 01366.

Derby Brewery Arms

95 Cheetham Hill Rd, Cheetham Hill, Manchester M8 8PY

Derby Brewery Arms, the half-pub, half-electronic music venue known for full-throttle techno parties, is nestled in the inner city of Cheetham Hill. At "The DBA," as it's colloquially known, you can play a quick game of snooker with a pint of ale in between sets by grassroots techno collectives. If you prefer outdoor parties, you can catch one of their courtyard events decorated with flags, plants and sky-high mirrors—a perfect way to spend a summer evening when the sun finally does shine in Manchester.

Hidden

16-18 Mary St, Cheetham Hill, Manchester M3 1NH

Downtex Mill's Hidden packs a Void Acoustics sound system that gets the dance floor booming. If you're on the hunt for a night out, Hidden's caged booth will most likely be sheltering a venerated techno veteran. Regis, Paula Temple and MARRØN have all laid down quick rhythms and face-melting track selections in the three-story venue. Each room is sprawled with street graffiti, mushroom murals and metallic structures, giving the venue its characteristic gritty, anything-goes feel.

Eastern Bloc

5a Stevenson Square, Manchester M1 1DN

Eastern Bloc Records is always one to keep their ears to the ground. Their in-house event EB Selectors brings some of the city's top-tier vinyl players to an intimate sweatbox. Local techno talent never slips through the cracks with this venue. Manchester artists are solidly at the forefront of their programming, with previous lineups including Kerrie, Means&3rd and Damien Bones. The small-capacity venue is well known for having a crowd filled with regulars, plus an cosy, low-ceilinged dance floor with large, neon "EB" initials—like an "X" that marks the spot—behind the turntables.

Joshua Brooks

106 Princess St, Manchester M1 6NG

The lively Joshua Brooks is conveniently located a short distance from the city's student campuses. The venue's lighting and sound system are top-notch, and their talent is too. This space has seen the start of many major players in Manchester. Upstairs, the bar holds a huge variety of local ales, so you can sip on a unique pint while catching some of Manchester's most exciting underground techno acts. DJs such as Ben Sims, DJ Bone and Rebekah have all graced this long-standing basement club.