Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester
Explore Greater Manchester’s rich public transport heritage through one of Britain’s largest collections of historic buses, trams, and trolleybuses.
Located in Cheetham Hill, Manchester, the Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester, showcases one of Britain’s largest collections of historic public transport vehicles. Open Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays, it features around 80 buses, two trolleybuses, and the prototype Metrolink tram, offering a fascinating journey through the region’s transport heritage.
A brief summary to Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester
- Boyle St, Manchester, Cheetham Hill, M8 8UW, GB
- +441612052122
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Wednesdays, Saturdays, or Sundays to experience the museum fully open with volunteer guides available.
- Take advantage of free heritage bus rides offered seasonally from Easter to September for a unique transport experience.
- Wear warm clothing in colder months as the museum is housed in a large industrial-style building that can feel chilly.
- Bring a camera to capture the vintage vehicles and the prototype Metrolink tram, popular photo highlights.
- Check the museum’s website or social media channels for special events and family-friendly activities during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the Metrolink tram to Queens Road station, then walk approximately 10 minutes to the museum. The journey from Manchester city centre takes around 30-40 minutes. Trams run frequently, and tickets cost about £3-£5 one way.
-
Taxi
A taxi ride from Manchester Airport to the museum takes approximately 25-35 minutes depending on traffic, costing around £25-£35. This is the most direct and comfortable option, especially with luggage or in poor weather.
-
Car
Driving to the museum is convenient with onsite parking available. Travel times from central Manchester are about 15-20 minutes. Note that parking may be limited during special events, and there is no charge for parking.
-
Walking
From Manchester city centre, walking to the museum is possible in about 45-60 minutes. The route is mostly flat urban terrain but may not be suitable for all due to distance.
Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Cold Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester
A Living Archive of Greater Manchester’s Transport History
The Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester, situated in the vibrant Cheetham Hill district, serves as a rich repository of the region’s public transport evolution. Since its establishment in 1977, the museum has preserved and presented an extensive collection of vehicles that narrate the story of urban mobility from the Victorian era to the modern day. Visitors can explore around 80 buses, including vintage models, two distinctive trolleybuses from Manchester and Ashton-under-Lyne, and the prototype body of the Manchester Metrolink tram, a symbol of the city’s light rail innovation.Immersive Exhibits and Hands-On Experiences
The museum’s layout invites visitors to engage closely with the exhibits, many of which are fully restored and accessible for inspection. This hands-on approach allows you to step aboard several historic buses and trams, experiencing firsthand the design and atmosphere of past public transport. The collection includes vehicles that once ferried locals to work, shopping, and leisure destinations, reflecting the social and economic fabric of Greater Manchester over decades.Volunteer Spirit and Community Connection
Run largely by dedicated volunteers, the museum benefits from their passion and deep knowledge, which enriches the visitor experience with personal stories and historical insights. The friendly atmosphere and community-driven ethos make the museum more than just a display space—it is a hub for transport enthusiasts and local heritage advocates.Seasonal Operations and Special Events
Open to the public on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays from 10:00 to 16:30, the museum closes for the Christmas and New Year period. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy free heritage bus rides that add a dynamic element to the visit. The museum also hosts special events and activities tailored to families and transport aficionados alike, enhancing its role as an educational and cultural venue.Location and Visitor Amenities
Located just north of Manchester city centre near Manchester Fort Shopping Park, the museum is easily accessible and offers onsite parking. Facilities include a café providing refreshments, restrooms, and sheltered areas, ensuring a comfortable visit regardless of weather. The museum’s setting within Cheetham Hill adds a layer of urban character, connecting the transport history to the broader story of Manchester’s development.Preserving Heritage for Future Generations
The Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester, stands as a vital institution preserving the tangible heritage of public transport in the North West of England. Its extensive collection and engaging presentation foster appreciation for the technological and social changes that have shaped the region’s mobility. Whether you are a local resident, a transport enthusiast, or a curious traveler, the museum offers a unique window into the past journeys that have paved the way for today’s urban life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lowry Footbridge
1.0 km
A Victorian iron bridge immortalized in art, connecting Manchester's industrial past to its present.
Robert Owen Statue
1.9 km
Honoring Robert Owen, pioneer of social reform and the co-operative movement, through a striking statue in Manchester’s city heart.
Murrays' Mill
2.1 km
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
2.3 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
2.5 km
A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
Dalton Entry
2.7 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Mulberry Passage
2.7 km
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
2.7 km
Historic tram tunnel portal in Manchester’s industrial Ancoats district, linking past mill heritage with modern urban regeneration.
John Bright Statue
2.7 km
A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) west portal
2.7 km
A historic tram tunnel portal in Ancoats, symbolizing Manchester’s industrial heritage and urban transformation.
Albert Memorial
2.7 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Manchester City Council
2.8 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Connaught Building
2.8 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
Arch of Chinatown
2.8 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Victory Over Blindness
2.8 km
A powerful bronze memorial at Manchester Piccadilly honoring WWI veterans blinded in battle, symbolizing resilience and solidarity at eye level.
Unmissable attractions to see
Manchester Jewish Museum
0.9 km
Explore Manchester’s rich Jewish heritage in a beautifully restored 19th-century synagogue, now a vibrant museum and cultural hub.
St Michael's Flags & Angel Meadow Park
1.6 km
A historic green oasis in Manchester, where serene parkland meets the poignant legacy of 40,000 paupers buried beneath St Michael's Flags.
AO Arena
1.8 km
Manchester’s largest indoor arena, AO Arena hosts world-class concerts, sports, and family events in a vibrant urban setting.
Ancoats Green
1.9 km
Ancoats Green: a vibrant, sustainable city park blending nature, community, and urban renewal in Manchester’s historic district.
Chetham's Library
2.0 km
Explore England’s oldest public library, a medieval architectural gem and historic hub of revolutionary ideas in Manchester’s heart.
Band on the Wall
2.0 km
Historic Manchester music venue famed for intimate gigs, jazz roots, punk legacy, and a unique stage high on the wall.
National Football Museum
2.0 km
Explore the world’s greatest football collection and interactive exhibits in Manchester’s iconic National Football Museum.
Old Naval Yard
2.0 km
Discover the Old Naval Yard in Ancoats, a historic gateway to Manchester’s rich maritime and industrial heritage nestled in a vibrant urban district.
Cathedral Gardens
2.0 km
A vibrant green oasis in Manchester’s medieval quarter, blending history, culture, and nature in the city centre.
Hallé at St Michael's
2.0 km
Historic church transformed into a vibrant music and community venue in Manchester’s cultural heart of Ancoats.
Albert Park
2.1 km
Historic Albert Park in Salford blends Victorian charm with modern sports facilities and vibrant community spirit in a lush urban setting.
Express Building
2.1 km
A timeless Streamline Moderne masterpiece blending historic print heritage with vibrant modern workspaces in the heart of Ancoats, Manchester.
SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Ancoats
2.1 km
Explore SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE in Ancoats—where craft beer meets delicious food in a vibrant pub atmosphere.
NQ Mural
2.1 km
Discover the vibrant NQ Mural, a colorful centerpiece of Manchester's Northern Quarter renowned for its dynamic street art and creative energy.
Manchester Craft and Design Centre
2.1 km
Discover handmade crafts, meet local artists, and enjoy artisan café culture in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter.
Essential places to dine
The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle
1.5 km
Cozy railway-arch eatery in Manchester serving authentic handmade spätzle and Central European pasta with a lively, buzzy atmosphere.
TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar
2.0 km
A beloved Northern Quarter gem serving seasonal British cuisine with award-winning roasts and warm, attentive service in a relaxed brasserie setting.
RIGATONI'S Ancoats
2.0 km
Specialized Southern Italian pasta kitchen in Manchester’s vibrant Ancoats, serving bold, hearty rigatoni dishes in a modern setting.
Trof Northern Quarter
2.0 km
A multi-level Northern Quarter gem serving hearty British comfort food, craft beers, and rare bourbons in a lively, rustic setting.
SUD Pasta Ancoats
2.1 km
Experience vibrant, handmade Italian pasta and lively communal dining in the heart of Manchester’s trendy Ancoats district.
Elnecot
2.1 km
Ancoats’ vibrant modern British bar and kitchen blending inventive seasonal dishes with a warm, industrial-chic atmosphere.
63 Degrees
2.1 km
Experience meticulous French cuisine and elegant dining in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter at 63 Degrees.
mana
2.1 km
Manchester’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, Mana serves avant-garde British tasting menus in a sleek open-kitchen space in Ancoats.
Liquor and Burn
2.1 km
Experience bold Mexican street food and vibrant cocktails in Manchester’s artistic Northern Quarter at Luck Lust Liquor & Burn.
The Counter House
2.1 km
A relaxed modern European restaurant in Manchester’s Ancoats, offering hearty comfort food with a healthy twist and excellent wine service.
Yard & Coop Manchester
2.1 km
Savor the best buttermilk fried chicken in Manchester’s Northern Quarter with bold flavors, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere.
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Manchester
2.1 km
Contemporary Italian dining with cocktails in Manchester's vibrant Corn Exchange.
Jimmy's Manchester
2.1 km
Discover Jimmy's Manchester: A lively bar serving delicious American BBQ and inventive cocktails in Ancoats.
Canto
2.1 km
Experience vibrant Portuguese tapas and Mediterranean flavors in the stylish heart of Ancoats, Manchester’s buzzing culinary hotspot.
Almost Famous NQ
2.1 km
Bold, indulgent burgers and vibrant vibes in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, a must-visit for burger lovers and casual diners alike.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Annea Veleta
1.7 km
A curated, maker-focused gift boutique in Ancoats offering handcrafted homewares, stationery and tasteful Manchester-themed keepsakes.
GRACIOUS APPARELS
1.8 km
Discover diverse fashion treasures in Ancoats: custom T-shirts, alterations, designer clothes, and more at this vibrant Manchester clothing hub.
Crown HQ
2.0 km
Retro threads meet rhythmic beats in Ancoats' industrial gem—a vintage shop by day, dance haven after hours.
HighMidLows
2.0 km
Uncover eclectic contemporary fashion in Ancoats' creative heart at HighMidLows, where unique local designs meet everyday style in a vibrant boutique setting.
&made
2.1 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artworks at &made, a creative studio in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter craft hub.
Nordic Muse Lifestyle Store
2.1 km
A quietly curated Northern Quarter boutique for simple, well-crafted jewellery and Nordic-inspired homeware.
The Norah Store
2.1 km
Boutique womenswear in Ancoats with a slow-fashion, carefully curated edit of rare and independent labels.
Kiku Boutique
2.1 km
Bespoke corsets and vintage lingerie in Manchester's Northern Quarter: handmade elegance that defies fast fashion.
Jessica6 Designs
2.1 km
Discover unique luxury gifts and local artistry at Jessica6 Designs within Manchester’s vibrant Craft & Design Centre.
Studio One - Jewellery, Craft, Gifts and Homewares
2.1 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery and crafts at Studio One, a vibrant artisan studio within Manchester’s historic Craft and Design Centre.
Twisted Smile
2.1 km
Discover eclectic style at Twisted Smile, Ancoats' boutique beacon of unique apparel amid Manchester's creative revival. Curated finds and expert advice await in this urban fashion haven. (162 characters)
Hoot
2.1 km
Discover magical gifts and Harry Potter treasures at Hoot, a charming boutique nestled in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant shopping heart.
Deadstock General Store
2.1 km
Discover useful beauty at Deadstock General Store, where Liam Jackson curates high-end Japanese designs, artisan gifts, and tailoring in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
Form Lifestyle Store
2.2 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.
Store Retail Group Ltd
2.2 km
Explore the vibrant retail scene in Ancoats, Manchester, at Store Retail Group Ltd, where local craftsmanship meets urban charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Fringe
2.0 km
A cozy Northern Quarter bar with quirky charm, top Belgian beers, live music, and a welcoming vibe for relaxed socializing.
The Crown & Kettle
2.0 km
Grade II-listed Ancoats gem with a world-class tin ceiling, craft beer mastery, and cozy Victorian vibes—Manchester's perfect pub hybrid.
blossom street SOCIAL
2.0 km
Chilled wine bar in Ancoats with vinyl vibes, bottle walls, and pop-up fine dining—where sophisticated sips meet casual social hours in Manchester's creative heart.
The Washhouse
2.1 km
Step through a washing machine door into Manchester’s secret speakeasy, where inventive cocktails and quirky charm create an unforgettable night out.
KERB
2.1 km
Intimate natural wine haven in Ancoats: curved peach walls, pet-nat sparklers, and expert tastings in a Scandi-style cocoon.
Wolf at the Door
2.1 km
A vibrant Northern Quarter bar serving innovative tapas-style bao buns, craft cocktails, and a lively urban atmosphere.
The Edinburgh Castle Pub
2.1 km
Historic Ancoats boozer reborn: cosy Victorian pub vibes meet seasonal gastropub mastery and local brews in Manchester's industrial heart.
Science And Industry
2.1 km
Sophisticated cocktails and a stylish vibe await you at Science and Industry, the first-floor bar of Cane & Grain in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
The Jane Eyre
2.1 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 Old Wellington
2.2 km
Step into The Old Wellington, a historic Manchester pub blending centuries-old charm with hearty ales and classic British fare in the city centre.
Behind Closed Doors
2.2 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.
Mean Eyed Cat Bar Manchester
2.2 km
Dive into Manchester’s Northern Quarter for rebellious rock ’n’ roll vibes, free pizza, and legendary dice games at Mean Eyed Cat Bar.
cask
2.2 km
Craft beer haven on Manchester's New Islington Marina, with canal views, games, and a relaxed vibe in trendy Ancoats.
Wilson's Social
2.2 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.
The Daisy
2.2 km
Parisian subterranean cocktail haven in Manchester's Northern Quarter: eclectic vibes, masterful drinks, and weekend DJ magic beneath Evelyn's.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Hidden at Downtex Mill
1.8 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
Bijou Club
2.1 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Cargo
2.1 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
2.1 km
Dive into Manchester's most inclusive queer rave: grungy beats, diverse dancers, and unapologetic joy at YDSA Events in Ancoats.
Mint Lounge
2.2 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Funkademia
2.2 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.
Aatma
2.3 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Twenty Twenty Two
2.4 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.
Club Liv Manchester
2.6 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
2.8 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
The Cockatoo Club
2.8 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Cockatoo Club in Manchester, where vibrant cabaret performances meet an unforgettable atmosphere.
Satans Hollow
2.9 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Club Tropicana
2.9 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.
42's
2.9 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
History Nightclub
3.0 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
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
- Locally Managed
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
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
