Manchester is home to many museums celebrating the city’s rich history and creativity. Home to big industrial movements as well as political movements like the Chartists and Suffragettes, Manchester has an interesting history worth exploring. Manchester’s museums are filled to the brim with artefacts and information, and many of them are free! With so many different options, there’s a museum to see, no matter what you are interested in.
Best history museums in Manchester
Manchester Museum
Entry Price: Free
As part of the University of Manchester campus, this museum is one you have to go to. Just a short walk down Oxford Road, Manchester Museum has free entry, although a small donation is appreciated. Their collections cover so much history, from Lee Kai Hung to dinosaurs. Guided tours are also offered, which you can book online on their website. With 4.5 million objects to see, you need to go and explore this Manchester museum.
Address: University of, Oxford Rd, Manchester, M13 9PL
People’s History Museum
Entry Price: Free
The People’s History Museum is the national museum of democracy. Through time, it shows the story of the right to vote, fair pay and equal rights. Over 450 banners, historical and contemporary, with the most extensive and most important collection of banners. Be sure to look at the oldest trade union banner, the Tin Plate Workers Society Banner, which is just over 200 years old. The internationally-significant Labour History Archive & Study Centre holds many important political, including the archives of the Labour Party, and the personal papers of political inspirations such as Michael Foot.
Address: Left Bank, Manchester, M3 3ER
Science and Industry Museum
Entry Price: Free
The science and industry museum combines the past and the present to show the story of both historical industry and scientific theory. The site was the original terminus for the world’s first indoor railway station, the museum is home to a large collection of historical locomotives and artefacts from the early days of railways. They also take you on a journey through technology, from early radios to iPods.
Address: Liverpool Rd, Manchester, M3 4FP
Imperial War Museum North
Entry Price: Free
The Imperial War Museum North has five chapters to explore: World War One, Between the Wars, World War Two, Cold War and Into a New Century. These take on you on a journey through the biggest conflicts of the last 100 years. Not to mention, they have a collection of huge items! When walking in, don’t forget to look up or you’ll miss the US Harrier hanging from the ceiling. The museum is also home to some beautiful artwork, including Poppies, an art installation of poppies cascading down the Air Shard.
Address: Trafford Wharf Rd, Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester, M17 1TZ
Best football museums in Manchester
Manchester United Museum and Stadium Tour
Entry Price: from £25
The Manchester United Museum and Stadium Tour is everything a fan could dream of. The tour lasts 80 minutes and takes you through the stadium’s iconic sights. Walk through the player’s tunnel, walk alongside the world-famous pitch, and then visit the dugouts. The museum tells you the stories of some of the most iconic Man U players such as Bobby Charlton, Eric Cantona, David Beckham, and Wayne Rooney. The tour is iconic and is one of the must-see museums in Manchester.
Address: Sir Matt Busby Way, Old Trafford, Stretford, Manchester, M16 0RA
National Football Museum
Entry Price: from £9 (Manchester resident’s tickets are free)
Home to several important collections of football memorabilia, the National Football Museum exhibits everything football from incredible FA Cup silverware to Bobby Moore’s boot from the 1966 World Cup. It’s a must-see museum in Manchester for any football fan in the city. With 13 collections to see, there is a plethora of information and fascinating artefacts. Even the most novice of football fans will recognise so many objects here, from Pele’s passport to George Best’s paintings.
Address: Urbis Building Cathedral Gardens, Todd St, Manchester, M4 3BG
Best art galleries in Manchester
Manchester Art Gallery
Entry Price: Free
With over 14,000 works, Manchester Art Gallery is known for its Pre-Raphaelite paintings. However, the gallery is home to many pieces from all over the world, including 2000 oil paintings and 350 sculptures, as well as drawings, watercolours, posters, medals, photographs and prints. The gallery also has a collection of 21,000 textile pieces and costumes. The gallery is located in the centre of Manchester, so it’s easy to go and see it then explore more of the city.
Address: Manchester Art Gallery, Mosley St, Manchester M2 3JL
Whitworth Art Gallery
Entry Price: Free
With an artwork collection of 60,000, the Whitworth Art Gallery has a dynamic and changing collection of artworks, from textiles to mass-produced wallpapers. Run by the University of Manchester, the Whitworth aims to use art for positive social change, pledging themselves to take action with art. It’s free entry, although a donation is always appreciated, or you could select something from the great gift shop! This is a must-see gallery in Manchester, just for the huge number of art pieces, ranging from 18th century to contemporary art. Oh and it also do a great lunch!
Address: Oxford Rd, Manchester, M15 6ER
Now you know all the must-see museums in Manchester, the only question is: which one do you visit first? Interested in seeing more of Manchester? Check out our article on the best parks in Manchester.
Last Updated on May 25, 2025
Published on January 19, 2023
