
Best Museums & Art Galleries in Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
1. Manchester Art Gallery
Discover a vast collection of British art from the 16th century to the present day. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions.
- Rich Historical Collection: Features works by renowned artists like Turner, Constable, and Gainsborough.
- Free Admission: Offers free entry to the public, making art accessible for all.
- Educational Programs: Provides workshops and talks for visitors of all ages.
2. The Whitworth
A beautiful art gallery set in a park, featuring a diverse collection including works from the pre-Raphaelites.
- Sustainable Practices: Committed to reducing environmental impact through various green initiatives.
- Community Engagement: Collaborates with local communities on projects and events.
- Temporal Exhibitions: Hosts changing exhibitions showcasing contemporary artists and thematic displays.
3. The Lowry
Dedicated to the art of L.S. Lowry and contemporary art, offering a fascinating insight into the industrial North.
- Permanent Collection: Showcases over 500 works by Lowry, one of Britain's most beloved artists.
- Interactive Experience: Offers interactive experiences for visitors, including workshops and family-friendly activities.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Hosts temporary exhibitions featuring the works of other contemporary artists.
4. Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)
Explore the history of science, industry, and technology in the northwest, housed in a series of historic buildings.
- Hands-On Exhibits: Provides interactive exhibits for visitors to engage with.
- Historic Buildings: Located in several Grade II listed buildings, offering a unique setting for the displays.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and workshops for both children and adults.
5. Imperial War Museum North
Learn about the impact of war on everyday life in the 20th and 21st centuries, through a variety of exhibits.
- Memorial Gallery: Features a moving tribute to those who have served and lost their lives in conflicts.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the experiences of war.
- Outdoor Sculpture Garden: Features a beautiful outdoor sculpture garden showcasing works by artists from around the world.
6. National Football Museum
Celebrate the history and culture of football through interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and more.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers a variety of interactive experiences for visitors, including trying your hand at commentating.
- World Cup Trophy Tour: Has hosted the FIFA World Cup trophy during its tour around the world.
- Global Perspective: Explores the global impact of football and its role in society.
7. People's History Museum
Discover the history of democracy and political movements in Britain, through a variety of exhibits.
- Inclusive History: Highlights the stories of those often excluded from mainstream historical narratives.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits, allowing visitors to engage with the displays.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs and workshops for both children and adults.
8. Urbis (Closed)
Explore the past, present, and future of Manchester through exhibits focusing on art, culture, and innovation.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Hosted a variety of temporary exhibitions showcasing contemporary artists and themes.
- Interactive Experience: Offered an interactive experience, allowing visitors to engage with the displays.
- Archive: Had a vast archive of material related to Manchester's history and culture.
9. Corridor Gallery
A contemporary art gallery located in a former factory, showcasing work by emerging artists.
- Emerging Artists: Focuses on supporting and promoting the work of emerging artists.
- Changing Exhibitions: Hosts a new exhibition every two months, ensuring fresh content for visitors.
- Workshops and Talks: Offers workshops and talks by artists, providing insight into their creative processes.
10. Castlefield Gallery
A public art gallery dedicated to supporting the development of contemporary artists.
- Supporting Artists: Provides opportunities for emerging and mid-career artists through residencies, exhibitions, and commissions.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions showcasing contemporary art.
- Engaging Programs: Offers talks, workshops, and other engaging programs for visitors.
11. Home (International Centre for Contemporary Art)
A contemporary art gallery focusing on exhibitions that engage with social and political issues.
- Social and Political Issues: Exhibits focus on contemporary themes, often exploring social and political issues.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions showcasing contemporary art.
- Engaging Programs: Offers talks, workshops, and other engaging programs for visitors.
12. Manchester Craft and Design Centre
A hub for craftspeople and designers, showcasing their work in a variety of exhibitions.
- Local Artisans: Supports local artisans by providing them with a platform to showcase and sell their work.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, featuring the work of both established and emerging artists.
- Workshops and Classes: Offers workshops and classes in various craft and design techniques.
13. Afflecks Palace
A bustling marketplace offering a wide variety of unique gifts, clothing, and art.
- Unique Finds: Features an array of one-of-a-kind items that can't be found anywhere else.
- Budget-Friendly Prices: Offers a wide range of affordable items, making it a great place for budget shoppers.
- Local Artists and Designers: Supports local artists and designers by providing them with a platform to sell their work.
14. Anthony Burgess Foundation
A cultural centre dedicated to the life and work of author Anthony Burgess, featuring exhibits, events, and a library.
- Literary Heritage: Provides insight into the life and work of one of Manchester's most celebrated authors.
- Library Access: Offers access to a vast library of books, manuscripts, and other materials related to Burgess and his work.
- Events and Workshops: Hosts events and workshops related to literature, music, and art.
15. John Rylands Library
A beautiful red-brick library housing a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts.
- Rare Collections: Features a vast collection of rare books, including a first edition of the King James Bible.
- Architectural Beauty: Boasts a stunning Gothic Revival architecture, making it one of Manchester's most iconic landmarks.
- Exhibitions and Events: Hosts exhibitions and events related to literature, history, and the arts.