The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI, for short) traces the history of technology from the Industrial Revolution to the present day – and asks what developments may be just around the corner. Located in a listed building, there’s something here for people of all ages.
Address:
Science and Industry Museum,Manchester is one of our favourite cities! Check out our top 10 reasons we love Manchester
Located in a striking modern building, the custom-built Imperial War Museum North catalogues the history of combat, from swords and shields to guns and bombs. It focuses on the human side of conflict, with art, memorials, and investigations of the role that everyday people played in war.
Address:
IWM North,
Celebrating the achievements of working people over the past 200 years, the People’s History Museum catalogues the fights for the right to vote, the 8-hour working day, and better pay, among several others. It’s a family friendly museum located in an eye-catching former pump-house.
Address:
Left Bank,
Manchester
M3 3ER
Another museum that highlights the struggle by workers to make life better for everyone is the Rochdale Pioneers Museum - the historic home of the Co-operative Movement. It is a faithful recreation of the original Co-operative store from 1844, which the employees co-owned, and it highlights the movement’s contribution to important social causes.
Address:
31 Toad Lane,
Step inside this Grade 2 listed, 15th-century manor house, and you’ll be transported to the past. The rooms at the Clayton Hall Living History Museum are decorated in a Victorian style, so people of all ages can learn how people in the past cooked, worked, and relaxed. While small, Clayton Hall is certainly one of the most unique free museums Manchester residents have access to.
Address:
Clayton Park,
After serving as a working police station, this red-brick building was transformed into a museum of Manchester’s police force. The Greater Manchester Police Museum still has original cells and a courtroom, as well as curated galleries on catching criminals through history and a collection of police uniforms and transportation. Admission is free, but bookings are required.
Address:
57A Newton Street,Manchester photographers have a wealth of shooting opportunities - here’s a list of the best spots for photography in Manchester!
Home to a collection of history, art, and natural heritage – not to mention Victorian-era taxidermy and curiosities – the Whitaker is not to be missed. Some of the animals on display are over 200 years old, and the collection brings together specimens from across the planet. The contemporary art gallery which shares the site is also must-see. So, if you are also looking for free art galleries in Manchester, this is a great one!
Address:
Haslingden Road,
Moved to the city in 2012, the Manchester Football Museum is the place for fans of English football. Check out the Premier League trophy, try your luck at a free kick, and reminisce in the Hall of Fame – and that’s just the beginning. There are collections of football artefacts across several floors, making it the ideal spot for fans of all ages. The museum is free for people with a Manchester postcode, while those from elsewhere need to pay £10.50 for entry.
Address:
Urbis Building Cathedral Gardens,
The world’s largest working steam mill engine is located just a short trip from Manchester at the Ellenroad Engine House. The building houses a number of impressive steam engines, and they are fired up monthly for an impressive demonstration. The museum is free to children under 16, adults must pay £5 for entry.
Address:
Ellenroad Engine House
For fans of historic transportation, the Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester (MOTGM) can’t be beaten. They have everything from horse-drawn carriages to trams and an entire bus garage, as well as signs, uniforms, tickets, and more. MOTGM even offers rides on its historic buses. The museum costs adults £5, but under-16s can enter for free.
Address:
Museum of Transport,That’s all of our recommendations for free museums in Manchester! Remember to check their websites for any updates before you plan your journey!
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