Empire Exchange: Manchester’s Treasure Trove of Collectibles
Dive into Manchester’s eclectic Empire Exchange, a treasure trove of vintage comics, vinyl, and collectibles where every visit uncovers a new story.
Empire Exchange in Manchester is a vast, eclectic collectibles shop offering everything from vintage comics and vinyl to rare memorabilia and quirky antiques. Known for its friendly staff and endless browsing opportunities, it’s a haven for collectors and nostalgia lovers alike, nestled in the heart of the city at 1 Newton Street.
A brief summary to Empire Exchange
- 1 Newton St, Manchester, M1 1HW, GB
- +441612364445
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Allow at least an hour to explore the extensive collection thoroughly.
- Chat with the knowledgeable staff to learn fascinating stories behind unique items.
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter browsing experience.
- Check out the vintage comics and vinyl sections for rare finds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Manchester Metrolink tram to St Peter’s Square, then enjoy a 10-15 minute walk along busy city streets to reach 1 Newton Street. Trams run frequently with tickets costing around £3-£5.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the city centre; alight at Piccadilly Gardens and walk approximately 12 minutes through pedestrian-friendly areas. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £4.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Manchester Piccadilly station to Empire Exchange takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £5-£10.
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Walking
If staying nearby, a walk from central landmarks like Manchester Cathedral takes around 10-15 minutes on flat, paved streets suitable for all abilities.
Empire Exchange location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Empire Exchange
A Wonderland for Collectors and Nostalgia Seekers
Empire Exchange stands as a unique emporium in Manchester, renowned for its sprawling collection of collectibles that span decades and genres. This shop is not just a store but a vibrant archive of cultural artifacts, where visitors can discover vintage comics, rare vinyl records, old toys, and a myriad of other nostalgic treasures. The atmosphere is one of curiosity and delight, inviting guests to lose themselves in the endless aisles filled with items that evoke memories and stories from the past.The Heart and Soul Behind the Counter
What truly sets Empire Exchange apart is its welcoming and knowledgeable staff. Regular visitors often highlight the friendly service and the engaging conversations they have with the shop's team, who have been part of the store for many years. This personal touch adds a layer of warmth and authenticity, making each visit feel like stepping into a community hub where stories and history are shared alongside the collectibles.A Diverse and Ever-Changing Inventory
The inventory at Empire Exchange is impressively diverse, covering a wide spectrum of interests. From vintage Marvel comics and adult entertainment magazines to retro jewelry and old rotary phones, the shop caters to a broad audience. This diversity ensures that whether you are a serious collector or a casual browser, there is always something intriguing to find. The shop’s commitment to maintaining a large and varied stock means that no two visits are ever the same.Location and Ambience in Manchester’s Urban Fabric
Situated at 1 Newton Street in Manchester’s city centre, Empire Exchange benefits from a vibrant urban setting. The shop’s interior reflects its eclectic nature, with a slightly chaotic but charming layout that encourages exploration. The ambient buzz of the city outside contrasts with the treasure-filled quiet inside, creating a perfect retreat for those seeking to escape the modern pace and indulge in a step back in time.Community and Cultural Significance
Beyond being a retail space, Empire Exchange serves as a cultural landmark within Manchester. It preserves and celebrates elements of popular culture and local history through its collections. The shop’s role in the community extends to hosting conversations and connections among enthusiasts, fostering a sense of shared heritage and passion for collectibles that might otherwise be lost in the digital age.Visiting Tips and Experience Highlights
Visitors are encouraged to set aside ample time to explore the shop thoroughly, as its vast and varied stock can easily captivate for hours. Engaging with the staff can enrich the experience, offering insights into the provenance of items and the shop’s history. Whether seeking a specific collectible or simply browsing, the atmosphere of discovery and nostalgia makes Empire Exchange a must-visit destination for anyone interested in vintage and collectible culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
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A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
Victory Over Blindness
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A powerful bronze memorial at Manchester Piccadilly honoring WWI veterans blinded in battle, symbolizing resilience and solidarity at eye level.
Arch of Chinatown
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Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Connaught Building
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Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
Murrays' Mill
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Explore Murrays' Mills, the world’s oldest urban steam-powered cotton mill, where industrial heritage meets modern living in Manchester’s historic Ancoats district.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
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A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
St. Peter's Square
0.7 km
Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Manchester City Council
0.7 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
John Bright Statue
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A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Robert Owen Statue
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Honoring Robert Owen, pioneer of social reform and the co-operative movement, through a striking statue in Manchester’s city heart.
Albert Memorial
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A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) west portal
0.8 km
A historic tram tunnel portal in Ancoats, symbolizing Manchester’s industrial heritage and urban transformation.
Dalton Entry
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Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Mulberry Passage
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Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) east portal
0.8 km
Historic tram tunnel portal in Manchester’s industrial Ancoats district, linking past mill heritage with modern urban regeneration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fell Northern Quarter
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Experience the heartbeat of Manchester's nightlife at Fell Northern Quarter, where craft beer meets vibrant culture in an inviting atmosphere.
Hilton House Mural
0.2 km
A powerful street art mural in Manchester’s Northern Quarter blending social themes with vibrant urban creativity.
The Whiskey Jar
0.2 km
Discover The Whiskey Jar in Manchester, where an extensive whiskey collection meets a lively atmosphere, perfect for every occasion.
Piccadilly Gardens
0.2 km
Manchester’s central green space blending historic charm, modern design, and vital transport connections in a lively urban setting.
Stevenson Square
0.2 km
Manchester’s Stevenson Square: the energetic Northern Quarter hub for bars, culture, and vibrant nightlife in the city centre.
Blue Rinse Manchester and Kilo Shop
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Discover unique vintage fashion treasures by the kilo in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, blending style with sustainability.
Greater Manchester Police Museum & Archives
0.2 km
Explore Manchester’s historic police station, original cells, and magistrates’ court in this immersive museum dedicated to policing heritage.
DRY BAR
0.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance and eclectic music scene at DRY BAR, a premier bar and nightclub in Manchester's vibrant nightlife.
Afflecks
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Explore Manchester’s legendary alternative indoor market, home to over 60 independent traders and a vibrant hub of creativity and culture.
Shops
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Discover Oldham Street, Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter hotspot for vintage fashion, indie shops, live music, and authentic urban culture.
Breakout Manchester Church Street
0.2 km
Experience thrilling, immersive escape rooms on Manchester’s Church Street with diverse themes and challenging puzzles for all skill levels.
City Tower, Manchester
0.3 km
Manchester’s iconic 30-storey skyscraper offering premium office spaces and panoramic city views in the heart of the vibrant city centre.
Mural - Cityscape under colourful sky
0.3 km
Vibrant cityscape mural brightening the historic Rochdale Canal Tow Path in Manchester’s urban waterside setting.
The Makers Market
0.3 km
Discover Manchester’s creative pulse at The Makers Market, where artisan crafts, street food, and live music unite in the vibrant Northern Quarter.
Manchester Craft and Design Centre
0.4 km
Discover handmade crafts, meet local artists, and enjoy artisan café culture in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter.
Essential places to dine
Tariff & Dale
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Historic industrial charm meets modern British cuisine and inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter.
Pieminister Manchester
0.2 km
Savor award-winning British pies in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, where tradition meets modern comfort food in a lively, welcoming setting.
Turtle Bay Manchester Northern Quarter
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively island vibes in Manchester’s Northern Quarter at Turtle Bay.
Store Street Exchange Restaurant
0.3 km
Modern British dining with rotisserie specialties and craft cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly hub.
Evuna NQ
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant hospitality in Manchester’s Northern Quarter at Evuna NQ, a lively hub for food, wine, and culture.
Namii Kitchen & Cocktails
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Vietnamese and pan-Asian flavors with creative cocktails in Manchester’s lively city centre.
Higher Ground
0.3 km
A vibrant Manchester bistro blending seasonal British produce with sustainable ethos and refined, shareable dishes in a modern, welcoming setting.
PUPA Restaurant & Bar
0.3 km
Authentic Mediterranean charcoal grill and vibrant atmosphere in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, perfect for steak lovers and lively dining.
Almost Famous NQ
0.4 km
Bold, indulgent burgers and vibrant vibes in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, a must-visit for burger lovers and casual diners alike.
Cane & Grain
0.4 km
Discover Cane & Grain: where traditional American cuisine meets Manchester's vibrant nightlife scene in an unforgettable dining experience.
Street Urchin
0.4 km
Bold British seafood and market dining in a modern, plant-filled space with warm service and inventive, seasonal dishes in Manchester’s Ancoats.
Sicilian NQ - Restaurant and Bar
0.4 km
Authentic Sicilian cuisine and vibrant bar life in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, famed for arancini and inclusive vegan options.
Yard & Coop Manchester
0.4 km
Savor the best buttermilk fried chicken in Manchester’s Northern Quarter with bold flavors, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere.
Viet Shack Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience bold Vietnamese street food flavors and vibrant fusion dishes in the heart of Manchester’s creative Ancoats district.
63 Degrees
0.4 km
Experience meticulous French cuisine and elegant dining in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter at 63 Degrees.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
needi
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Discover unique, locally crafted gifts with expert personal service in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly at Needi.
Fred Aldous Ltd
0.2 km
Manchester’s vibrant, family-run arts and crafts emporium with 30,000 products, vintage photo booths, and a creative spirit spanning over 130 years.
Bionic Seven
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Discover expertly curated vintage menswear and unique streetwear styles at Bionic Seven, a Northern Quarter icon since 2003.
Thunder Egg
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Dive into a rainbow of quirky fashion and gifts at Thunder Egg, Manchester's colorful boutique for unique vintage-inspired styles and playful outfits.
The Manchester Shop
0.2 km
Discover Manchester's soul in bee motifs, music tees, and proud souvenirs at this Northern Quarter gem within Afflecks Arcade.
Red and Blue Umbrella
0.2 km
Discover timeless style and friendly service at Manchester’s Red and Blue Umbrella vintage clothing shop on Church Street.
Cow Vintage Manchester
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Discover trend-led vintage fashion and sustainable style in Manchester’s creative Northern Quarter at Cow Vintage.
Pop Boutique
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Tucked into Oldham Street, Pop Boutique is Manchester’s well-curated vintage emporium for mid-century to 1990s fashion finds and eclectic accessories.
Laissez Faire UK Fairtrade & Eco Clothes & Gifts
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Discover fairtrade and eco-friendly fashion and gifts in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Church Street district.
Manchester Souvenirs & Convenience Store
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Discover authentic Manchester souvenirs and essentials in the heart of the city, blending culture, convenience, and community spirit.
Suzylovesmilo concept store
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Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Suzylovesmilo, Manchester’s curated concept store blending Japanese influences with local creativity.
Form Lifestyle Store
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Discover Manchester's hidden gem: a light-filled Grade II listed haven brimming with indie-crafted homewares, gifts, and creative workshops in the Northern Quarter.
Deadstock General Store
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Discover useful beauty at Deadstock General Store, where Liam Jackson curates high-end Japanese designs, artisan gifts, and tailoring in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
Studio One - Jewellery, Craft, Gifts and Homewares
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Discover exquisite handmade jewellery and crafts at Studio One, a vibrant artisan studio within Manchester’s historic Craft and Design Centre.
Jessica6 Designs
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Discover unique luxury gifts and local artistry at Jessica6 Designs within Manchester’s vibrant Craft & Design Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hold Fast Bar
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Dive into Manchester's Northern Quarter basement gem: nautical vibes, retro tiles, banging tunes, and chill nights at Hold Fast Bar.
Dusk Til Pawn
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Secretive pawn-shop façade, intimate speakeasy interior and a menu of inventive cocktails in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
The Fitzgerald
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Velvet seats, craft cocktails and live jazz in a 1920s‑inspired Manchester speakeasy with a stage for cabaret and private hire.
Flok
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Lively pub with excellent drinks and friendly vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife.
Night & Day Cafe
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Manchester's intimate live music heartbeat in the Northern Quarter—where legends launched and nights ignite with raw indie energy.
7Sins, Northern Quarter
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A vibrant basement bar and gaming hub in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, mixing cocktails, pool, arcade games, and dance club energy.
NQ64 Northern Quarter
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Retro arcade bar blasting 80s-90s nostalgia with neon cocktails, token games, and basement buzz in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
Wilson's Social
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All-day Northern Quarter hub: brunch by day, cocktails and beats by night in a multi-level party palace with pool, courtyard, and private den.
The Daisy
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Parisian subterranean cocktail haven in Manchester's Northern Quarter: eclectic vibes, masterful drinks, and weekend DJ magic beneath Evelyn's.
Mean Eyed Cat Bar Manchester
0.3 km
Dive into Manchester’s Northern Quarter for rebellious rock ’n’ roll vibes, free pizza, and legendary dice games at Mean Eyed Cat Bar.
Behind Closed Doors
0.3 km
Descend into debauched delight at this Northern Quarter speakeasy, where retro telephones summon saucy cocktails amid erotic art, neon booths, and funky DJ beats until 4am.
The Alchemist New York Street
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A captivating cocktail theatre and dining experience blending molecular mixology with global cuisine in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Science And Industry
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Sophisticated cocktails and a stylish vibe await you at Science and Industry, the first-floor bar of Cane & Grain in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
Wolf at the Door
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A vibrant Northern Quarter bar serving innovative tapas-style bao buns, craft cocktails, and a lively urban atmosphere.
The Crown & Kettle
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Grade II-listed Ancoats gem with a world-class tin ceiling, craft beer mastery, and cozy Victorian vibes—Manchester's perfect pub hybrid.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Twenty Twenty Two
0.1 km
Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
Aatma
0.2 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Funkademia
0.3 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
Mint Lounge
0.3 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Club Tropicana
0.5 km
Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.
Satans Hollow
0.5 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
0.6 km
Dive into Manchester's most inclusive queer rave: grungy beats, diverse dancers, and unapologetic joy at YDSA Events in Ancoats.
Cargo
0.6 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Club Liv Manchester
0.9 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Venue Nightclub
0.9 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Bijou Club
0.9 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Kable
1.0 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Viva Manchester
1.0 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
42's
1.0 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
History Nightclub
1.1 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
