[1][4] The building was designed by architects Peter Cummings, Alex Irvine, and R. Gillespie Williams, in an Art Deco style.

Its original purpose was as a multi-purpose cinema and variety hall and was opened on 29 August 1938 by actress Margaret Lockwood.

[8] The Rolling Stones performed at the ABC Ardwick with Ike & Tina Turner, The Yardbirds, and Peter Jay & the New Jaywalkers on 28 September 1966.

The venue hosts a large number of popular music-based concerts and other events throughout the year.

[11] Concert management and advertisement is handled by Live Nation, merchandise is sold by the permanent resident concession company CMI Ltd, and first aid cover for all events is provided by St. John Ambulance.