Science and Industry Museum, Manchester
Explore Manchester’s industrial heritage and 250 years of innovation at the historic Science and Industry Museum.
Located on Liverpool Road in Manchester, the Science and Industry Museum explores 250 years of innovation and industrial heritage in the world's first industrial city. Housed in historic railway buildings, it features interactive galleries, textile machinery, steam engines, and exhibits on computing history. The museum offers free admission, a café, and a programme of special exhibitions and events, making it a dynamic destination for all ages interested in science, technology, and history.
A brief summary to Science and Industry Museum
- Liverpool Rd, Manchester, GB
- +443300580058
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book free admission tickets online in advance to secure your preferred visit time, especially during school holidays.
- Check the museum’s website for current information on restoration closures and which galleries are accessible.
- Enjoy the café’s sustainable snacks and hot drinks, or bring your own food to the indoor picnic area.
- Allow at least 90 minutes to explore the permanent galleries and special exhibitions.
- Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a more immersive experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Metrolink tram to Deansgate-Castlefield stop, a 5-minute walk from the museum. Trams run frequently from central Manchester and cost approximately £3.50 for a single adult ticket.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve Liverpool Road and Castlefield area, including routes 50 and 53. Travel times vary between 15 to 30 minutes from Manchester city centre. Tickets cost around £3.00 single fare.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Manchester city centre to the museum takes about 10 minutes, depending on traffic, and typically costs £6–£10. This option is convenient for groups or visitors with mobility needs.
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Walking
If staying nearby in central Manchester, the museum is accessible by foot within 20 to 30 minutes along mostly flat, paved urban streets. Suitable for most visitors including those with limited mobility.
Science and Industry Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Science and Industry Museum
A Living Tribute to Manchester’s Industrial Legacy
The Science and Industry Museum stands on the site of the world's oldest surviving passenger railway station, Liverpool Road, in the heart of Manchester. This historic location anchors the museum’s mission to tell the story of where science met industry and the modern world began. The museum’s buildings, including Grade I and Grade II listed structures, preserve the architectural heritage of the early industrial era, offering a tangible connection to the city’s pioneering role in global industrialization.Exploring 250 Years of Innovation
Inside, visitors can explore a vast collection spanning two and a half centuries of scientific and technological breakthroughs. The permanent galleries include Revolution Manchester, which showcases the city’s transformative industrial history; the Textiles Gallery, highlighting Manchester’s cotton industry through machinery and demonstrations; and Experiment, an interactive gallery designed to engage visitors of all ages with hands-on science activities. The museum also houses a replica of 'Baby,' the world’s first stored-program computer, symbolizing Manchester’s role in computing history.Dynamic Exhibitions and Ongoing Restoration
The museum regularly hosts special exhibitions and events, such as the popular 'Power Up' retro gaming exhibit, which celebrates classic computers and consoles. While a multi-million-pound restoration programme is underway to preserve and enhance the site, some areas like the Power Hall and the 1830 Station and Warehouse may be temporarily closed. Despite this, there remains a wealth of galleries and outdoor spaces to explore, including the cobbled Upper Yard and the Planting Stories garden.A Welcoming Space for All Visitors
The Science and Industry Museum is committed to accessibility and inclusivity. The museum offers free admission and provides facilities such as a café serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals, as well as an indoor picnic area. Volunteers and staff are available to assist visitors, and the museum runs educational programmes and demonstrations that bring its collections to life. Its central city location, near public transport links, makes it easily accessible without on-site parking.Immersive Experiences and Educational Opportunities
Visitors can immerse themselves in daily demonstrations of textile and industrial machinery, gaining insight into the lives of workers and the technological advances that shaped society. The museum’s interactive approach encourages curiosity and learning, making it a popular destination for families, school groups, and solo explorers alike. The blend of historic artifacts with modern exhibits creates a unique environment where the past and present of science and industry converge.Connecting Past Innovations with Future Discoveries
As part of the Science Museum Group, the Science and Industry Museum shares stories of innovation that continue to influence the future. Its extensive collection of 7.3 million items spans science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine, offering a rich resource for understanding humanity’s progress. Whether captivated by steam engines, computing milestones, or textile machinery, visitors leave with a deeper appreciation of Manchester’s pivotal role in shaping the modern world.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roman Gardens
0.2 km
Discover Manchester’s Roman past through tranquil gardens featuring reconstructed fortifications and ancient pathways in the heart of Castlefield.
Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall
0.2 km
Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.
Bahnhof Manchester
0.2 km
Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.
Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort
0.3 km
Explore the evocative remains of Mamucium’s eastern wall, a cornerstone of Manchester’s Roman heritage and ancient military might.
Rochdale Canal Lock 92
0.3 km
Final lock on the historic Rochdale Canal, linking Manchester’s waterways and embodying two centuries of industrial heritage.
Castlefield historical zone
0.3 km
Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.
Free Trade Hall
0.5 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
0.6 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Mulberry Passage
0.6 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
Friedrich Engels Statue
0.7 km
A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.
Dalton Entry
0.7 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Albert Memorial
0.7 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
John Bright Statue
0.7 km
A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
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.
Canada House, Manchester
0.7 km
Discover Canada House, a majestic Grade II listed cotton warehouse in Manchester, embodying the city’s rich industrial heritage and architectural splendor.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
0.1 km
Dive into the ultimate immersive adventure inspired by the iconic 90s TV show, where teamwork and fun collide in Manchester’s thrilling Crystal Maze LIVE Experience.
Saint John's Gardens
0.2 km
A serene urban oasis in Manchester preserving historic churchyard remnants and offering peaceful green space near Deansgate.
Castlefield Urban Heritage Park
0.2 km
Explore Manchester’s historic heart where Roman ruins, scenic canals, and vibrant culture converge in the UK’s first Urban Heritage Park.
Mamucium Roman Fort Reconstruction
0.2 km
Explore the reconstructed Roman fort of Mamucium, a vital northern frontier garrison that shaped Manchester’s ancient roots.
Castlefield National Trust railway walk
0.2 km
Discover a historic Victorian railway viaduct transformed into a vibrant elevated garden blending industrial heritage with nature in Manchester’s oldest district.
National Trust - Castlefield Viaduct
0.2 km
A Victorian railway viaduct reborn as a lush elevated sky garden blending Manchester’s industrial heritage with vibrant urban nature.
Upper Campfield Market Hall
0.2 km
Historic Victorian market hall in Manchester’s Castlefield, now a vibrant artisan market and creative hub blending heritage with modern innovation.
Opera House Manchester
0.3 km
A historic Edwardian theatre in Manchester offering world-class musicals, opera, and vibrant cultural performances in an elegant setting.
Beetham Tower
0.3 km
Manchester’s tallest skyscraper outside London, Beetham Tower combines luxury living, stunning views, and bold modern architecture in the heart of the city.
Great Northern
0.4 km
A lively blend of historic charm and modern entertainment in Manchester’s premier shopping and leisure plaza.
Castlefield Gallery
0.4 km
Manchester’s pioneering contemporary art gallery fostering creativity, community, and artist development since 1984.
Alcotraz Manchester: Cell Block Three-Four
0.4 km
Discover the thrilling cocktail experience at Alcotraz Manchester, where immersive storytelling meets masterful mixology in a unique prison-themed bar.
Albert Hall, Manchester
0.5 km
Historic Wesleyan chapel turned iconic music venue with stunning stained glass and vaulted ceilings in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
People's History Museum
0.5 km
Britain's national museum of democracy, celebrating radical stories of people fighting for a fairer world.
Mural - Peterloo.
0.5 km
A vivid street art mural in Manchester commemorating the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the enduring fight for democracy.
Essential places to dine
Italiana Fifty Five Liverpool Road
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm with freshly made pasta and unique flambéed dishes in the heart of Manchester.
Don Marco
0.3 km
Contemporary Italian dining with warm service and fresh flavors in Manchester’s lively Campfield Arcade.
Dimitri's - Tapas Meze Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Greek tapas and meze in Manchester’s lively Deansgate district, perfect for sharing and savoring Mediterranean flavors.
20 Stories
0.3 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from 20 Stories, a glamorous rooftop restaurant blending Modern European cuisine with stunning city views.
Evuna Deansgate
0.3 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Deansgate district.
Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant
0.3 km
Cozy British dining with eclectic charm and seasonal flavors in Manchester’s lively Spinningfields district.
Another hand
0.3 km
An intimate modern British restaurant in Manchester’s Deansgate Mews, celebrated for inventive seasonal dishes and natural wines.
Tattu Manchester
0.3 km
Modern Chinese cuisine and theatrical design in Manchester's Spinningfields district.
Podium
0.3 km
Sophisticated Modern British dining with inventive flavors and sleek modernist style in Manchester’s iconic Hilton Deansgate.
Albert's Shed Restaurant Manchester
0.3 km
Modern European dining with generous portions and lively canal-side ambiance in Manchester’s historic Castlefield district.
Dukes 92
0.3 km
A vibrant Manchester hotspot blending generous dining, lively music, and versatile event spaces in a stylish city centre setting.
Dom's Italia
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Manchester at Dom's Italia, where tradition meets vibrant city dining.
Italiana Fifty Five Great Northern
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in Manchester’s stylish Great Northern Warehouse setting.
Almost Famous GN
0.4 km
A lively Manchester burger bar serving bold, indulgent American-style burgers with loaded fries in a vibrant, casual setting.
James Martin Manchester
0.4 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine in an elegant casino setting, where seasonal ingredients and expert service create a memorable Manchester dining destination.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Science and Industry Museum Shop
0.1 km
Discover science-infused souvenirs in the heart of Manchester's industrial birthplace, where history meets hands-on innovation at the Science and Industry Museum Shop.
Catch my Thrift
0.3 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
TVSeriesJackets
0.3 km
Explore TVSeriesJackets in Manchester, where iconic TV show jackets come to life, blending style with your favorite characters' adventures.
Branded Like A Boss
0.6 km
Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
ItsFetch
0.6 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
0.6 km
Futuristic cornershop at Deansgate Square's base: craft coffee, local brews, zero-waste refills, and artisanal bites amid Manchester's iconic towers.
Curvilicious Clothing
0.6 km
Empowering plus-size style in Manchester's beating heart: Curvilicious Clothing celebrates curves with trendy, authentic fashion on Owen Street.
INFINITE RUNNING
0.6 km
Elevate your run with Infinite Running's premium gear: sleek half tights, breathable singlets, and weather-ready layers for Manchester's relentless athletes.
Manchester Souvenirs Gifts & Presents Geek Elf Elux Bars Luggage storage locker
0.6 km
Authentic Manchester souvenirs and gifts with local charm, plus convenient luggage storage in the heart of Deansgate.
Pulse
0.8 km
Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
Søstrene Grene
0.9 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
1.0 km
A vibrant Chinese art and craft gallery in Manchester’s Chinatown, showcasing handcrafted treasures and cultural heritage in a warm, welcoming space.
Stare Society
1.0 km
Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
Rams Gift World
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.1 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
cask
0.2 km
Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.
Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester
0.3 km
Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.
The Blues Kitchen Manchester
0.3 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue, soulful live music, and vibrant vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Spinningfields.
Cloud 23
0.3 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.
The Deansgate
0.3 km
Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.
The Alchemist Spinningfields
0.4 km
Innovative cocktails and contemporary dining in Manchester’s vibrant Spinningfields district, blending theatrical flair with a lively social scene.
Atlas Bar
0.4 km
Discover Manchester’s iconic gin bar with 570+ gins, award-winning service, and a year-round heated terrace in the heart of Deansgate.
Lock 91
0.4 km
Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.
Three Little Words
0.4 km
A stylish gin distillery and cocktail bar under historic arches, blending craft cocktails, seasonal food, and immersive experiences in Manchester’s heart.
The Wharf
0.4 km
Cosy canalside pub in Manchester's Castlefield, where real fires, craft ales, hearty roasts, and patio views create an unmissable waterside retreat for all.
Bar Eight
0.5 km
Lively Irish pub on Manchester's Castle Quay, blending sports screens, hearty grub, and canalside cheer for unforgettable nights out.
Speak In Code
0.5 km
Discover Speak In Code, Manchester’s innovative cocktail bar blending artisanal mixology, sustainable practices, and a uniquely immersive atmosphere.
The Britons Protection
0.5 km
Historic Manchester pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional charm, lively atmosphere, and welcoming community spirit.
The Gas Lamp
0.5 km
Discover Manchester’s atmospheric basement pub with a rich history, exceptional craft beers, and a cozy, characterful vibe beneath Bridge Street.
MOJO
0.6 km
Eclectic cocktail bar in Manchester’s heart, blending creative drinks with a lively, urban nightlife vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Royal Vida Night Club
0.2 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
History Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
42's
0.4 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Ark Manchester
0.4 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Popworld Manchester
0.4 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Venue Nightclub
0.5 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Bliss Club Manchester
0.5 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Club Liv Manchester
0.6 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Viva Manchester
0.8 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Kable
1.0 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Satans Hollow
1.0 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Bijou Club
1.1 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Club Tropicana
1.2 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.
The Cockatoo Club
1.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Cockatoo Club in Manchester, where vibrant cabaret performances meet an unforgettable atmosphere.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
1.2 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Educational
- Family Friendly
- Interactive
- Historic
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
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
