Hilton House Mural, Manchester Northern Quarter
A powerful street art mural in Manchester’s Northern Quarter blending social themes with vibrant urban creativity.
The Hilton House Mural, located at 26 Hilton Street in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, is a striking example of contemporary street art that enriches the area's creative atmosphere. Painted during the 2016 Cities of Hope festival, this mural by the Swiss artist duo Nevercrew addresses social themes with powerful imagery and is part of the area's ongoing artistic regeneration. It stands as a testament to Manchester’s industrial heritage and its evolving urban culture.
A brief summary to Hilton House Mural
- 26 Hilton St, Manchester, M1 2EF, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours for the best natural lighting to fully appreciate the mural’s details.
- Explore nearby Northern Quarter streets to discover other murals and street art installations.
- Bring a camera for striking photo opportunities of the mural and surrounding urban scenery.
- Combine your visit with a stop at local cafes and independent shops to experience the creative vibe of the area.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take Manchester’s Metrolink tram to Shudehill or Piccadilly Gardens stops, then walk approximately 10-15 minutes through the Northern Quarter. Tram tickets cost around £3-£5 depending on the zone.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the Northern Quarter area, including services from Manchester Piccadilly and Victoria stations. Journey times range from 15 to 25 minutes with frequent service; single fares are typically £2-£3.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Manchester city center takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Estimated fare ranges from £5 to £10.
Hilton House Mural location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hilton House Mural
A Canvas of Social Consciousness in Manchester’s Northern Quarter
The Hilton House Mural is prominently displayed on the side of the building at the corner of Hilton Street and Tariff Street in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. This area, once the heart of the Industrial Revolution, has transformed into a thriving hub for street art and creative expression. The mural, titled "Inhuman Barriers," was created by the Swiss street artist duo Nevercrew during the Cities of Hope festival in 2016, a project that brought together international artists to Manchester to create socially engaged public artworks.Artistic Vision and Symbolism
Nevercrew’s mural is known for its evocative imagery that explores themes of human struggle and resilience. The piece was created in support of WASP (Women Asylum Seekers Together), highlighting issues faced by marginalized communities. The artwork combines realistic and surreal elements, using the building’s façade as a dramatic backdrop to convey messages about barriers—both physical and societal—that individuals encounter. This mural is a vivid example of how street art can serve as a platform for social commentary within an urban environment.Hilton House: From Industrial Roots to Creative Spaces
Hilton House itself is a building with a rich history. Originally constructed in the swinging 1960s to house Manchester Polytechnic’s lighting and drama department, it has since evolved into a creative workspace hub. The building’s architecture reflects mid-20th-century design, and its transformation into a canvas for street art symbolizes the Northern Quarter’s broader regeneration from industrial past to cultural present.The Northern Quarter’s Artistic Landscape
The mural is part of a larger tapestry of street art that decorates the Northern Quarter, an area renowned for its vibrant artistic community. The neighborhood hosts numerous murals, galleries, and independent shops, making it a magnet for artists and visitors alike. Hilton House’s mural contributes to this dynamic urban gallery, offering both locals and tourists a glimpse into Manchester’s commitment to creative expression and social awareness.Preservation and Community Impact
While street art can be ephemeral, the Hilton House Mural has become a valued landmark in the Northern Quarter. It draws attention to important social issues while enhancing the visual landscape. The mural’s presence supports local initiatives aimed at urban renewal and community engagement, reinforcing the role of public art in fostering dialogue and cultural identity.Experiencing the Mural Today
Visitors to Hilton Street can experience the mural up close, appreciating the scale and detail of Nevercrew’s work. Its location in a bustling creative district means it is surrounded by cafes, shops, and other artworks, making it a perfect stop for those exploring Manchester’s street art scene. The mural invites reflection on the themes it portrays, set against the backdrop of a city that embraces both its industrial heritage and its progressive artistic future.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.2 km
A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
Victory Over Blindness
0.4 km
A powerful bronze memorial at Manchester Piccadilly honoring WWI veterans blinded in battle, symbolizing resilience and solidarity at eye level.
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.
Arch of Chinatown
0.6 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) west portal
0.6 km
A historic tram tunnel portal in Ancoats, symbolizing Manchester’s industrial heritage and urban transformation.
Connaught Building
0.7 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) east portal
0.7 km
Historic tram tunnel portal in Manchester’s industrial Ancoats district, linking past mill heritage with modern urban regeneration.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
0.8 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
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.
St. Peter's Square
0.8 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
0.8 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
John Bright Statue
0.9 km
A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Albert Memorial
0.9 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Dalton Entry
0.9 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Mulberry Passage
0.9 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Whiskey Jar
0.0 km
Discover The Whiskey Jar in Manchester, where an extensive whiskey collection meets a lively atmosphere, perfect for every occasion.
Fell Northern Quarter
0.1 km
Experience the heartbeat of Manchester's nightlife at Fell Northern Quarter, where craft beer meets vibrant culture in an inviting atmosphere.
Greater Manchester Police Museum & Archives
0.1 km
Explore Manchester’s historic police station, original cells, and magistrates’ court in this immersive museum dedicated to policing heritage.
Empire Exchange
0.2 km
Dive into Manchester’s eclectic Empire Exchange, a treasure trove of vintage comics, vinyl, and collectibles where every visit uncovers a new story.
Stevenson Square
0.2 km
Manchester’s Stevenson Square: the energetic Northern Quarter hub for bars, culture, and vibrant nightlife in the city centre.
Mural - Cityscape under colourful sky
0.2 km
Vibrant cityscape mural brightening the historic Rochdale Canal Tow Path in Manchester’s urban waterside setting.
DRY BAR
0.3 km
Discover the lively ambiance and eclectic music scene at DRY BAR, a premier bar and nightclub in Manchester's vibrant nightlife.
The Horsfall
0.3 km
A vibrant creative venue in Manchester’s Ancoats, empowering youth mental health through art and community.
Shops
0.3 km
Discover Oldham Street, Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter hotspot for vintage fashion, indie shops, live music, and authentic urban culture.
Blue Rinse Manchester and Kilo Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures by the kilo in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, blending style with sustainability.
Afflecks
0.3 km
Explore Manchester’s legendary alternative indoor market, home to over 60 independent traders and a vibrant hub of creativity and culture.
Breakout Manchester Church Street
0.3 km
Experience thrilling, immersive escape rooms on Manchester’s Church Street with diverse themes and challenging puzzles for all skill levels.
Piccadilly Gardens
0.3 km
Manchester’s central green space blending historic charm, modern design, and vital transport connections in a lively urban setting.
Express Building
0.3 km
A timeless Streamline Moderne masterpiece blending historic print heritage with vibrant modern workspaces in the heart of Ancoats, Manchester.
The Makers Market
0.4 km
Discover Manchester’s creative pulse at The Makers Market, where artisan crafts, street food, and live music unite in the vibrant Northern Quarter.
Essential places to dine
Tariff & Dale
0.1 km
Historic industrial charm meets modern British cuisine and inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter.
Street Urchin
0.2 km
Bold British seafood and market dining in a modern, plant-filled space with warm service and inventive, seasonal dishes in Manchester’s Ancoats.
Turtle Bay Manchester Northern Quarter
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively island vibes in Manchester’s Northern Quarter at Turtle Bay.
Viet Shack Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience bold Vietnamese street food flavors and vibrant fusion dishes in the heart of Manchester’s creative Ancoats district.
Pieminister Manchester
0.3 km
Savor award-winning British pies in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, where tradition meets modern comfort food in a lively, welcoming setting.
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.
Store Street Exchange Restaurant
0.3 km
Modern British dining with rotisserie specialties and craft cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly hub.
Canto
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Portuguese tapas and Mediterranean flavors in the stylish heart of Ancoats, Manchester’s buzzing culinary hotspot.
Rudy's Pizza Napoletana - Ancoats
0.4 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza with light, airy crusts and traditional toppings in a lively, rustic setting in Manchester’s Ancoats district.
Jimmy's Manchester
0.4 km
Discover Jimmy's Manchester: A lively bar serving delicious American BBQ and inventive cocktails in Ancoats.
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.
The Counter House
0.4 km
A relaxed modern European restaurant in Manchester’s Ancoats, offering hearty comfort food with a healthy twist and excellent wine service.
PUPA Restaurant & Bar
0.4 km
Authentic Mediterranean charcoal grill and vibrant atmosphere in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, perfect for steak lovers and lively dining.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bionic Seven
0.1 km
Discover expertly curated vintage menswear and unique streetwear styles at Bionic Seven, a Northern Quarter icon since 2003.
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.
needi
0.2 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts with expert personal service in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly at Needi.
Suzylovesmilo concept store
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Suzylovesmilo, Manchester’s curated concept store blending Japanese influences with local creativity.
Thunder Egg
0.2 km
Dive into a rainbow of quirky fashion and gifts at Thunder Egg, Manchester's colorful boutique for unique vintage-inspired styles and playful outfits.
Pop Boutique
0.3 km
Tucked into Oldham Street, Pop Boutique is Manchester’s well-curated vintage emporium for mid-century to 1990s fashion finds and eclectic accessories.
Form Lifestyle Store
0.3 km
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.
Urban Exchange
0.3 km
Manchester's Ancoats shopping hub where outlet deals meet industrial chic and canal-side revival.
Cow Vintage Manchester
0.3 km
Discover trend-led vintage fashion and sustainable style in Manchester’s creative Northern Quarter at Cow Vintage.
Store Retail Group Ltd
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant retail scene in Ancoats, Manchester, at Store Retail Group Ltd, where local craftsmanship meets urban charm.
Ancoats General Store
0.3 km
A modern corner shop in Ancoats mixing everyday essentials with craft beers, vegan options, coffee and an in‑store post office.
Red and Blue Umbrella
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and friendly service at Manchester’s Red and Blue Umbrella vintage clothing shop on Church Street.
The Manchester Shop
0.3 km
Discover Manchester's soul in bee motifs, music tees, and proud souvenirs at this Northern Quarter gem within Afflecks Arcade.
Laissez Faire UK Fairtrade & Eco Clothes & Gifts
0.3 km
Discover fairtrade and eco-friendly fashion and gifts in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Church Street district.
Kiku Boutique
0.3 km
Bespoke corsets and vintage lingerie in Manchester's Northern Quarter: handmade elegance that defies fast fashion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hold Fast Bar
0.1 km
Dive into Manchester's Northern Quarter basement gem: nautical vibes, retro tiles, banging tunes, and chill nights at Hold Fast Bar.
The Fitzgerald
0.1 km
Velvet seats, craft cocktails and live jazz in a 1920s‑inspired Manchester speakeasy with a stage for cabaret and private hire.
Flok
0.2 km
Lively pub with excellent drinks and friendly vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife.
7Sins, Northern Quarter
0.2 km
A vibrant basement bar and gaming hub in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, mixing cocktails, pool, arcade games, and dance club energy.
Dusk Til Pawn
0.2 km
Secretive pawn-shop façade, intimate speakeasy interior and a menu of inventive cocktails in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
Night & Day Cafe
0.3 km
Manchester's intimate live music heartbeat in the Northern Quarter—where legends launched and nights ignite with raw indie energy.
Wilson's Social
0.3 km
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.
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 Daisy
0.3 km
Parisian subterranean cocktail haven in Manchester's Northern Quarter: eclectic vibes, masterful drinks, and weekend DJ magic beneath Evelyn's.
NQ64 Northern Quarter
0.3 km
Retro arcade bar blasting 80s-90s nostalgia with neon cocktails, token games, and basement buzz in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
The Edinburgh Castle Pub
0.3 km
Historic Ancoats boozer reborn: cosy Victorian pub vibes meet seasonal gastropub mastery and local brews in Manchester's industrial heart.
KERB
0.4 km
Intimate natural wine haven in Ancoats: curved peach walls, pet-nat sparklers, and expert tastings in a Scandi-style cocoon.
The Jane Eyre
0.4 km
Ancoats' inventive neighbourhood bar serving bold small plates, creative cocktails, and Sunday roasts in a buzzing industrial space—perfect for grazing and lingering.
The Crown & Kettle
0.4 km
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
0.2 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.
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.
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.
YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
0.4 km
Dive into Manchester's most inclusive queer rave: grungy beats, diverse dancers, and unapologetic joy at YDSA Events in Ancoats.
Club Tropicana
0.6 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
0.7 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Cargo
0.7 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Bijou Club
1.0 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Club Liv Manchester
1.0 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
1.1 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Kable
1.1 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Viva Manchester
1.1 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
42's
1.2 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
History Nightclub
1.3 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
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
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
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
