Ukulele Lessons Near Manchester
Manchester has such a rich musical heritage, and we love connecting with music lovers from the city! While we're based in the beautiful countryside just outside Manchester, our sessions are easily accessible and offer something special - a chance to escape the hustle and bustle while diving into music with like-minded people.
Since 2021, we've been creating welcoming spaces where people of all ages can learn ukulele, sing together, and build lasting friendships. Our approach is relaxed and inclusive - no pressure, just the joy of making music together. Whether you're picking up an instrument for the first time or looking to play with others, you'll find your place here.
Getting to Our Sessions from Manchester
Ramsbottom Sessions (Tuesdays)
Playing music in the morning with others is a fantastic way to start your day! From Manchester, it's a lovely journey to Ramsbottom - either a scenic 45-minute drive through the countryside via the A56, or a relaxing train ride from Manchester Victoria (around 30 minutes). Ramsbottom is home to many wonderful local businesses perfect for a coffee or spot of lunch after our sessions.
- Session: Tuesdays at Ramsbottom Library, 10:30am-12pm
- Location: Carr St, Ramsbottom, BL0 9AE
- Cost: £8 per person
- Getting there: Train from Victoria or scenic drive via A56
Bury Sessions (Thursdays & Mondays)
Bury is brilliantly connected to Manchester by Metrolink - just a 30-minute journey from the city centre, making it perfect for both commuters and day-trippers.
Thursdays at Wyldes - Perfect for after work, right in Bury town centre:
- Session: Thursdays 6:30pm-8pm
- Location: 4 Bolton St, Bury, BL9 0LQ
- Cost: £8 per person
- Getting there: Short walk from Bury Metrolink station, free parking after 6pm
Mondays at Greenmount - Start your week with music in a lovely community setting:
- Session: Mondays 10:15am-11:15am
- Location: Greenmount Old School, Brandlesholme Road, Bury, BL8 4DS
- Cost: £8 per person
- Getting there: 10 minutes from Bury centre by car, with its own car park
Evening Sessions (Tuesdays)
For evening sessions, our Tuesday evenings at The Den are possibly our cosiest sessions of the week! The living room atmosphere is perfectly equipped with a projector, and hot and cold drinks are available at no extra cost:
- Session: Tuesdays 5:30pm-7pm
- Location: The Den, Stubbins Vale Road, Ramsbottom, BL0 0NT
- Cost: £8 per person
- Getting there: Same scenic route as the library sessions
What to Expect
We focus on playing and singing together with small easily digestible portions of music theory to help you on your musical journey. Using our songbooks packed with popular tunes, we create an atmosphere where everyone can contribute, regardless of skill level. You'll learn proper technique, chord progressions, and strumming patterns, but the real magic happens when voices join together.
We are experienced musicians who understand that learning should be enjoyable. We provide instruments if you don't have your own. Sessions are tailored to include insightful content for complete novices and experienced musicians, ensuring everyone progresses at their own pace.
What to Bring
- Your ukulele (or let us know if you'd like to borrow one of ours)
- Our songbook - download the UGN Songbook (PDF) or bring a tablet
One-to-One Lessons with Ben
Looking for personal tuition? Ben, our founder, group facilitator and experienced musician with over 20 years of musical experience (playing various musical instruments, including piano, guitar and bass guitar) offers one-on-one ukulele lessons for learners of all ages. Ben brings serious musical experience to the ukulele world - over the last 8 years this cheerful instrument has become his passion bringing joy and positive distraction to many students and service users.
Ben's teaching style is friendly and laid-back, making him perfect for nervous beginners or those wanting to improve their technique or brush up on some music theory. He travels to your location within approximately 30 miles of Ramsbottom, which makes him easily accessible for people throughout Manchester. Remote lessons are also available via zoom call if you're located a little further away.
Lesson prices:
- 30 minutes: £20
- 60 minutes: £30
Contact us to discuss whether your Manchester location is within Ben's travel area.
Why Choose Uke Group North?
Community Connections
We understand the importance of community spaces, and our sessions help support local venues while creating connections between neighbours. We've seen friendships form, confidence grow, and people rediscover their love of music.
We're proud to work alongside other community organisations across Greater Manchester and Lancashire, all focused on bringing people together and improving wellbeing through shared activities.
Why Choose Our Sessions?
Learning music in a community setting has real benefits. You'll meet people from across Greater Manchester, support local venues, and enjoy travel times that make it easy to attend regularly. The routine of weekly sessions provides structure and something to look forward to.
As a community interest company, we're committed to making music accessible and affordable for everyone. Our sessions contribute to local wellbeing while strengthening the community assets that make Greater Manchester special.
Book Your Place
Ready to join us? Get in touch via our contact page to book your place at any of our sessions. Spaces are limited to ensure everyone gets the attention they need, so booking in advance is recommended.
All abilities welcome - complete beginners are especially encouraged!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which session should I choose? All our sessions are friendly and welcoming! Bury sessions are most convenient for Manchester residents - Thursday evenings suit those who work during the day, while Monday mornings are popular with retirees and flexible schedules. Ramsbottom sessions offer a lovely countryside escape.
Do I need any musical experience? Not at all - we'll teach you everything from how to hold the ukulele to playing your first songs. Many of our members started as complete beginners.
Can I try different sessions? Absolutely! Some people attend multiple sessions regularly, others pick the one that suits their schedule best.
What if I miss sessions? Life happens - you're welcome to attend as regularly or occasionally as works for you. No long-term commitments required.
Are there age limits? No age limits at all. We've had everyone from children to folks in their 80s. Music brings all generations together.
What about transport from Manchester? Bury sessions are perfect - just 30 minutes on the Metrolink. Ramsbottom is a scenic 30-45 minute journey by train or car.
Do you perform publicly? Sometimes! We occasionally arrange small performances for local events, but it's always voluntary and relaxed.
What songs do you play? Our songbooks include everything from folk classics to modern pop hits, all arranged for ukulele. There's something for every taste.
Can I bring a friend or family member? Of course! Many people come with partners, friends, or family members. The more the merrier.
What makes ukulele special? It's one of the most approachable instruments - easier than guitar to start with, but capable of beautiful music. Plus, as Jake Shimabukuro said, "If everyone played the ukulele, the world would be a better place."
