On the corner of Shudehill and Thomas Street sits a piece of Manchester history — Rambo’s Tattoo Parlour. Long before the Northern Quarter became the creative hub it is today, Paul “Rambo” Ramsbottom was already inking locals here. He opened his first parlour in 1984 and moved to the Shudehill location in 1986. Decades later, the shop still stands as a landmark for anyone serious about their ink.
The story behind Rambo’s
Paul Ramsbottom — known across the city simply as “Rambo” — first picked up a tattoo machine in October 1983. Within a year, he opened his first studio in Manchester. Just two years later, he set up shop at 42 Shudehill, Manchester M4 2AF, where he’s remained ever since.
Rambo’s isn’t just another tattoo studio. It’s Manchester’s longest-running tattoo parlour — a place that has watched the city change around it. While trends have come and gone, the red-fronted shop has stayed true to its roots: skilled tattooing, honest craftsmanship, and a deep respect for the culture behind the craft.
Meet the man himself
Paul “Rambo” Ramsbottom is more than a Manchester tattoo artist. He’s a historian, collector, and storyteller. Over the years, he’s built an impressive archive of tattoo memorabilia, much of which is displayed inside the shop. From stained glass details to vintage flash on the walls, the place feels less like a commercial studio and more like stepping into a living museum.
“I got my first machine in ’83, opened up in ’84 and moved here in ’86. I’ve seen Manchester change — but tattooing’s always been part of it.” — Paul “Rambo” Ramsbottom
Paul also authored a book about pioneering tattooist Cash Cooper, cementing his reputation as someone deeply connected to the history of the art form.
The team and artists at Rambo’s
While Paul remains at the heart of the shop, a talented team of artists works under the same roof. Some of the names regularly associated with Rambo’s include:
- Stephen Byrne — known for bold, clean work and walk-in friendly tattooing.
- Dan Allen — a versatile artist with a strong local following.
The line-up changes with guest spots and collaborations, so the best way to see who’s working is to check out the shop’s Instagram.
Why this place matters
In a city full of talented tattoo artists, Rambo’s stands out because it’s been there since before tattooing went mainstream. It’s seen Manchester grow, survived countless trends, and stayed true to what it was built on — good tattoos and real community.
The shop is often referenced in local press, featured in interviews, and mentioned in podcasts like Beneath the Skin. It’s also a regular stop for collectors and enthusiasts who want more than just a quick tattoo — they want a piece of history.
Visiting Rambo’s Tattoo Parlour
Rambo’s Tattoo Parlour is located at 42 Shudehill, Manchester, M4 2AF. It’s open Tuesday to Saturday, typically from 12:00 to 18:00. Booking is best done via their social media or by popping into the shop in person.
If you’re looking for a Manchester tattoo artist with real heritage — not just a trending name on Instagram — this is where the story starts.
Address: 42 Shudehill, Manchester, M4 2AF
Instagram: @rambostattooparlour
Open: Tue–Sat 12:00–18:00
Timeline at a glance
- 1983 — Paul “Rambo” Ramsbottom gets his first tattoo machine.
- 1984 — Opens his first parlour in Manchester.
- 1986 — Moves to 42 Shudehill, where Rambo’s still stands today.
- 2020s — The shop continues to thrive with resident and guest artists.
Why it’s a Manchester icon
Rambo’s isn’t a marketing gimmick or a passing trend — it’s a cornerstone of the city’s tattoo scene. Ask anyone who’s been tattooed here and they’ll tell you: this place has soul. Whether you’re after your first tattoo or adding to a collection, stepping into Rambo’s feels like stepping into the heartbeat of Manchester tattoo culture.
For anyone searching for an experienced Manchester tattoo artist, Rambo’s remains one of the most respected names in the city.
