Manchester Art Gallery
Explore centuries of art and design in Manchester’s historic and dynamic city-centre gallery with free entry and family-friendly spaces.
Manchester Art Gallery, located on Mosley Street in the heart of Manchester, is a renowned cultural institution housing over 46,000 works spanning six centuries. The gallery features a diverse collection including Pre-Raphaelite masterpieces, early 20th-century British art, decorative arts, and fashion, all displayed across three interconnected buildings including the historic Royal Manchester Institution. Free to visit, it offers a rich artistic journey with special family-friendly spaces and rotating exhibitions.
A brief summary to Manchester Art Gallery
- Mosley St, Manchester, M2 3JL, GB
- +441612358888
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- 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
- Visit on a weekday morning or early afternoon to enjoy a quieter experience and ample time to explore the collections.
- Check the gallery’s website for special exhibitions and family activity schedules, especially if visiting with children.
- Use the nearby St Peter's Square tram stop for convenient public transport access.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the main collections and temporary exhibitions.
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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Tram
Take the Metrolink tram to St Peter's Square, a 3-minute walk from the gallery. Trams run frequently throughout the day, with tickets costing around £2.50-£4.00 depending on zones.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the city centre, including stops near Mosley Street. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. Single fares typically range from £2 to £3.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services offer direct access to the gallery with travel times of 10-20 minutes from most central locations. Fares generally start around £5 and increase with distance and traffic.
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Walking
If you are staying in central Manchester, the gallery is within comfortable walking distance from many hotels and attractions, taking 10-20 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets.
Manchester Art Gallery 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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Low-Visibility Conditions
Discover more about Manchester Art Gallery
A Storied Home for Art in Manchester
Manchester Art Gallery sits prominently on Mosley Street, occupying three buildings including the neoclassical Royal Manchester Institution designed by Sir Charles Barry in 1824. The gallery’s architecture blends historic grandeur with modern extensions, creating an inspiring environment for its vast collection. This institution reflects Manchester’s rich cultural heritage and commitment to the arts, serving as a peaceful oasis amid the city’s vibrant centre.A Vast and Varied Collection Across Centuries
The gallery boasts over 46,000 objects encompassing paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, textiles, and costumes. Highlights include a world-class collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings by artists such as Dante Gabriel Rossetti and Ford Madox Brown, known for their vivid colors and intricate detail. The collection also features early 20th-century British art, including iconic industrial scenes by L.S. Lowry, capturing Manchester’s spirit.Exploring Decorative Arts and Fashion
Manchester Art Gallery’s decorative arts collection offers a fascinating glimpse into social history and design evolution. Visitors can admire ceramics, silver, glass, and furniture, as well as a curated selection of couture fashion pieces from designers like Charles Frederick Worth, Balenciaga, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, and Alexander McQueen. This blend of art and design enriches the gallery’s narrative of creativity and craftsmanship.Engaging Families and Young Visitors
The gallery is committed to accessibility and family engagement, featuring The Lion’s Den, a dedicated children’s gallery created with input from nursery children. This interactive space includes play areas and hosts artist-led activities designed especially for autistic children and their families, fostering creativity and inclusivity.A Dynamic Venue for Changing Exhibitions
Alongside its permanent collection, Manchester Art Gallery regularly updates its displays and hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase contemporary artists and thematic explorations. This ensures that each visit offers new discoveries and perspectives, maintaining the gallery’s relevance and vibrancy within Manchester’s cultural scene.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Manchester Art Gallery enjoy a welcoming, tranquil atmosphere ideal for reflection and inspiration. The gallery’s central location makes it easily accessible, while its free admission policy invites exploration without barriers. The combination of historic architecture, diverse collections, and family-friendly spaces makes it a must-visit cultural landmark in Manchester.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Connaught Building
0.0 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
0.1 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
St. Peter's Square
0.1 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
0.2 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Albert Memorial
0.3 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
John Bright Statue
0.3 km
A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Mulberry Passage
0.4 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
Canada House, Manchester
0.4 km
Discover Canada House, a majestic Grade II listed cotton warehouse in Manchester, embodying the city’s rich industrial heritage and architectural splendor.
Dalton Entry
0.4 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
0.4 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Historic England
0.4 km
Explore the rich heritage of England at Historic England in Manchester, where history meets preservation and community engagement.
Free Trade Hall
0.4 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.4 km
A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
0.6 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
Hotspur House
0.6 km
Historic Hotspur House blends Manchester’s industrial past with bold modern redevelopment, preserving heritage amid vibrant urban renewal.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chinatown
0.0 km
Discover Manchester Chinatown’s vibrant streets filled with authentic Asian cuisine, rich culture, and festive charm in the city’s heart.
Manchester Cenotaph
0.1 km
Explore the Manchester Cenotaph, a historical landmark honoring the brave souls of the armed forces in the heart of Manchester.
The Portico Library
0.1 km
Discover Manchester’s historic Portico Library, a Greek Revival architectural gem and vibrant cultural hub since 1806.
Grey Horse Inn
0.1 km
Experience the heart of Manchester at the Grey Horse Inn, where delicious food, local brews, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Emmeline Pankhurst Statue
0.1 km
Celebrate the legacy of Emmeline Pankhurst, Manchester’s pioneering suffragette leader, through this inspiring statue in St. Peter’s Square.
Manchester Central Library
0.2 km
Discover Manchester Central Library’s iconic neoclassical dome, vast collections, and vibrant cultural spaces in the city’s historic heart.
Landmark, St Peter's Square
0.2 km
A central corporate hub in Manchester’s St Peter's Square, blending modern office facilities with urban vitality.
Manchester Albert Square
0.3 km
Discover Manchester Albert Square, a stunning Victorian civic space where history, architecture, and vibrant culture converge in the city’s heart.
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.
2 Albert Square
0.3 km
Historic Albert Square in Manchester showcases Victorian Gothic grandeur with its iconic Town Hall and Prince Albert Memorial.
Albert Square
0.3 km
Manchester’s grand civic heart, framed by Gothic spires and alive with markets, monuments, and city life.
拿破仑（Napoleons) Restaurant and KTV
0.3 km
Discover the ultimate dining and karaoke experience at Napoleons Restaurant and KTV in Manchester, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and fun.
The Molly House
0.3 km
Discover the delightful atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings at The Molly House, Manchester's favorite bar and restaurant for tapas and drinks.
The New Union
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant pulse of Manchester's LGBTQ+ nightlife at The New Union, a welcoming gay bar and pub with lively entertainment.
DNA VR Manchester
0.3 km
Step into Manchester’s premier VR arcade where immersive games, escape rooms, and free-roam adventures bring virtual worlds to life.
Essential places to dine
Fumo by San Carlo - Manchester
0.2 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with an art deco flair, vibrant bar scene, and shareable dishes in Manchester’s lively St Peter’s Square.
Higher Ground
0.2 km
A vibrant Manchester bistro blending seasonal British produce with sustainable ethos and refined, shareable dishes in a modern, welcoming setting.
Namii Kitchen & Cocktails
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Vietnamese and pan-Asian flavors with creative cocktails in Manchester’s lively city centre.
Don Giovanni - Italian Restaurant Manchester
0.2 km
A lively Italian restaurant in Manchester’s city centre blending traditional flavours with modern style and vibrant atmosphere.
Grand Pacific
0.3 km
Experience Manchester’s gothic-inspired Pan-Asian cocktail bar with stunning décor, lively atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks in the city center.
Adam Reid at The French
0.3 km
Experience innovative Northern British fine dining with theatrical flair in Manchester’s iconic Midland Hotel.
Armenian Taverna & Restaurant
0.3 km
Manchester's authentic Armenian culinary institution, recently modernized yet rooted in five decades of tradition.
Mount Street Dining Room & Bar
0.3 km
Classic British dining with northern flair in the elegant, historic setting of Manchester’s Midland Hotel.
Browns Manchester
0.3 km
Victorian elegance meets contemporary British cuisine in Manchester's most distinguished brasserie.
10 Tib Lane
0.3 km
A refined French-inspired restaurant and cocktail bar in Manchester’s historic core, blending seasonal small plates with natural wines and crafted cocktails.
Kala
0.3 km
Modern European bistro blending classic and contemporary flavours in Manchester’s vibrant King Street district.
Habesha Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine and warm hospitality at Habesha Restaurant, Manchester’s beloved spot for traditional injera and hearty stews.
Miller & Carter Manchester
0.3 km
Classic British steakhouse on Manchester’s King Street, serving expertly aged premium steaks in a warm, elegant setting with attentive service.
Sam's Chop House
0.4 km
Experience traditional British chophouse dining with locally sourced ingredients in Manchester’s cozy, historic atmosphere.
MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE
0.4 km
Historic Manchester chophouse serving hearty British classics in a warm, inviting setting since 1867.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
Manchester Souvenirs & Convenience Store
0.3 km
Discover authentic Manchester souvenirs and essentials in the heart of the city, blending culture, convenience, and community spirit.
Søstrene Grene
0.5 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Menkind
0.5 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, Manchester Arndale’s vibrant destination for fun and innovative presents.
Pulse
0.5 km
Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
Manchester Souvenirs Gifts & Presents Geek Elf Elux Bars Luggage storage locker
0.5 km
Authentic Manchester souvenirs and gifts with local charm, plus convenient luggage storage in the heart of Deansgate.
needi
0.5 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts with expert personal service in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly at Needi.
The Manchester Shop
0.5 km
Discover Manchester's soul in bee motifs, music tees, and proud souvenirs at this Northern Quarter gem within Afflecks Arcade.
Rams Gift World
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.5 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
Amazonas Gifts
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Amazonas Gifts, nestled in the heart of Manchester Markets Piccadilly.
Red and Blue Umbrella
0.5 km
Discover timeless style and friendly service at Manchester’s Red and Blue Umbrella vintage clothing shop on Church Street.
Laissez Faire UK Fairtrade & Eco Clothes & Gifts
0.5 km
Discover fairtrade and eco-friendly fashion and gifts in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Church Street district.
Cow Vintage Manchester
0.6 km
Discover trend-led vintage fashion and sustainable style in Manchester’s creative Northern Quarter at Cow Vintage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alchemist New York Street
0.2 km
A captivating cocktail theatre and dining experience blending molecular mixology with global cuisine in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
All Bar One Manchester
0.3 km
Stylish wine bar on Manchester’s King Street offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a lively, modern atmosphere for casual dining and drinks.
Salt Dog Slim's Manchester
0.3 km
Dive into Salt Dog Slim's Manchester for bold cocktails, American-style hot dogs, and a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of the city.
Slug & Lettuce - Albert Square Manchester
0.3 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Manchester’s Albert Square, perfect for lively brunches, evening drinks, and social celebrations.
Speak In Code
0.4 km
Discover Speak In Code, Manchester’s innovative cocktail bar blending artisanal mixology, sustainable practices, and a uniquely immersive atmosphere.
Corbieres Bar
0.4 km
Discover Corbieres Bar, Manchester’s cozy underground spot famed for its eclectic jukebox, vegan-friendly pizzas, and welcoming vibe.
Arcane
0.5 km
Discover Arcane, a cozy Victorian-inspired cocktail bar in Manchester’s city centre, blending inventive drinks with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Gorilla
0.5 km
Manchester's ultimate hybrid haunt: brunch by day, beats by night in a funky bar-club fusion with live gigs and roasts.
NQ64 Northern Quarter
0.5 km
Retro arcade bar blasting 80s-90s nostalgia with neon cocktails, token games, and basement buzz in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
The Britons Protection
0.6 km
Historic Manchester pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional charm, lively atmosphere, and welcoming community spirit.
Three Little Words
0.6 km
A stylish gin distillery and cocktail bar under historic arches, blending craft cocktails, seasonal food, and immersive experiences in Manchester’s heart.
Be At One - Manchester
0.6 km
Lively cocktail bar on Deansgate with 100+ drinks, private hire rooms, and unbeatable happy hour deals in the heart of Manchester nightlife.
The Daisy
0.6 km
Parisian subterranean cocktail haven in Manchester's Northern Quarter: eclectic vibes, masterful drinks, and weekend DJ magic beneath Evelyn's.
The Gas Lamp
0.6 km
Discover Manchester’s atmospheric basement pub with a rich history, exceptional craft beers, and a cozy, characterful vibe beneath Bridge Street.
Night & Day Cafe
0.6 km
Manchester's intimate live music heartbeat in the Northern Quarter—where legends launched and nights ignite with raw indie energy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Satans Hollow
0.2 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Club Tropicana
0.3 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.
Venue Nightclub
0.4 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Club Liv Manchester
0.5 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
42's
0.5 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Viva Manchester
0.5 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Twenty Twenty Two
0.6 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.
Kable
0.6 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
History Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Bliss Club Manchester
0.6 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Royal Vida Night Club
0.7 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.
Funkademia
0.7 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.
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.
Mint Lounge
0.7 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Aatma
0.7 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- 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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
