Empire Exchange, Manchester Travel Guide

Free Guide: Dive into Manchester’s eclectic Empire Exchange, a treasure trove of vintage comics, vinyl, and collectibles where every visit uncovers a new story.

A brief summary of Empire Exchange

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.

1–3 hrsTime to spend
$$Mid-range
IndoorSetting
4 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Information boards
4.4 Very good · 269 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Every day10 am–6 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
1 Newton St, Manchester M1 1HW
Phone
Website

Getting there

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Dec · before 7am or from 9pm

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 56% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 56% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 67% of the busiest month
  4. Apr: 78% of the busiest month
  5. May: 89% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 100% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 100% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 89% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 78% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 67% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 56% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 6am: 11% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  2. 7am: 22% of the busiest hour
  3. 8am: 33% of the busiest hour
  4. 9am: 56% of the busiest hour
  5. 10am: 78% of the busiest hour
  6. 11am: 89% of the busiest hour
  7. 12pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  8. 1pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  9. 2pm: 89% of the busiest hour
  10. 3pm: 78% of the busiest hour
  11. 4pm: 78% of the busiest hour
  12. 5pm: 67% of the busiest hour
  13. 6pm: 44% of the busiest hour
  14. 7pm: 33% of the busiest hour
  15. 8pm: 22% of the busiest hour
  16. 9pm: 11% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  17. 10pm: 11% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

Explore Empire Exchange on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Empire Exchange, mapped for you.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Empire Exchange, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

More to explore near Empire Exchange

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.

Activate your presence Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Explore more

Manchester
More of the city

Explore more of Manchester

Discover Manchester, the dynamic city where industrial heritage meets modern culture, offering a unique blend of history, sports, music, and gastronomy in Northern England.

Explore Manchester
United Kingdom
More of the country

Explore more of United Kingdom

Discover the United Kingdom: A blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, offering a unique travel experience for every visitor.

Explore United Kingdom
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Manchester, UK

Discover Manchester with Evendo - your 100% free, app-based travel guide covering the best attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and experiences.

  • Comprehensive information on top attractions, landmarks, and restaurants
  • Rich descriptions, images, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Explore Manchester like never before with Evendo, the ultimate app-based travel guide. Discover top attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites with ease.

  • Detailed history and travel essentials for Manchester
  • Intuitive navigation with 'Near Me' feature
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Welcome to Manchester! With Evendo, your journey through this vibrant city becomes seamless and unforgettable. Whether you're here to marvel at the historic Manchester Cathedral, explore the iconic Old Trafford, or indulge in the culinary delights of The Ivy, Evendo is your go-to travel companion. Our app provides detailed information on all the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities in Manchester. Each location comes with rich descriptions, images, local tips, maps, and contact details, making it easy for you to plan and organize your trip.

No more frantic searches for things to see or do. With Evendo, you can effortlessly book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences right from the app. Imagine exploring the Manchester Art Gallery, dining at the renowned Hawksmoor, or taking a scenic tour on the Manchester Ship Canal – all planned and booked with a few taps.

Our app includes a feature-rich guide to the history of Manchester and essential travel tips to ensure you get the most out of your visit. Navigate the city easily with our intuitive interface and 'Near Me' feature, which shows you what's around you no matter where you are. Plus, our curated local tips let you experience Manchester like a true local.

And the best part? Evendo is 100% free. No in-app purchases or hidden costs – just pure travel enjoyment. Download Evendo today and unlock the full potential of your Manchester adventure!

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.