People's History Museum, Manchester
Explore Britain's political history and democracy at Manchester’s People’s History Museum, where activism and social justice come alive.
The People's History Museum in Manchester is the national museum of democracy, showcasing over 200 years of British political history through banners, posters, archives, and interactive exhibits. Located on Left Bank by the River Irwell, it highlights the struggles and achievements of working people and activists with a focus on social justice and political change. The museum is free to enter and offers family-friendly activities, a café, and a shop.
A brief summary to People's History Museum
- Left Bank, Manchester, M3 3ER, GB
- +441618389190
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 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 weekdays between 3pm and 5pm for quieter galleries, or Friday afternoons during the dedicated quiet time.
- Allow around 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the main galleries, exhibitions, and the shop.
- Use the museum’s picnic area if you bring your own food, and please clear your space afterwards.
- Check the museum’s calendar for special exhibitions and monthly Radical Lates events on second Thursdays.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple city centre bus routes serve stops within a 5-10 minute walk of the museum. Typical journey times from Manchester Piccadilly station are 10-20 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4 one way.
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Tram
The Metrolink tram network stops at St Peter's Square and Exchange Square, both about a 10-minute walk from the museum. Trams run frequently every 6-12 minutes, with fares starting at £2.50.
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Walking
From Manchester city centre, the museum is a 10-15 minute walk along paved, flat streets, suitable for all abilities. This is a pleasant route alongside the River Irwell.
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Car
Several city centre car parks are within a 5-10 minute walk of the museum. Parking fees vary but expect £10-£20 for a few hours. Traffic and parking can be busy during peak times.
People's History 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 People's History Museum
A Legacy of Political Activism and Democracy
The People's History Museum (PHM) stands as the national museum of democracy in Britain, located in Manchester’s Spinningfields area on Left Bank by the River Irwell. Its origins trace back to the 1960s when activists and historians began collecting materials related to labour and political movements. Established originally in London as the National Museum of Labour History in 1975, it relocated to Manchester in 1990, a city with a rich history of political activism. Renamed the People’s History Museum in 2002, it now holds an extensive collection documenting over two centuries of political struggle and social change in the UK.Collections That Tell Stories of Struggle and Change
PHM’s diverse collection includes historic and contemporary banners, posters, badges, photographs, and political ephemera that chronicle the fight for workers’ rights, suffrage, equality, and democracy. Notable artifacts include a desk used by Thomas Paine, puppets from the satirical TV show "Spitting Image," and silk banners from trade unions. The museum embraces stories from across the political spectrum but remains committed to highlighting the efforts of ordinary people campaigning for a fairer society.Engaging Exhibitions and Community Involvement
Alongside its permanent galleries, the museum hosts rotating exhibitions focusing on themes such as elections, LGBTQ+ rights, refugees, and other social justice issues. PHM actively collaborates with communities to create authentic content and offers a programme of events and activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. It is especially family-friendly, with interactive exhibits that encourage learning about democracy and activism.Visitor Experience and Facilities
The museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day except Tuesdays. Entry is free, though donations are encouraged to support its mission. Visitors can enjoy the on-site café, Gather, which serves brunch, lunch, and refreshments, or use the picnic area for self-catered meals. The museum shop offers unique gifts inspired by the collection. Accessibility is a priority, with features such as a Quiet Room, sensory tools, and facilities suitable for all ages and needs.Location and Surroundings
Situated on the corner of Left Bank and Bridge Street, opposite the Civil Justice Centre, the museum benefits from a central city location with scenic views of the River Irwell. Its modern building incorporates a historic pump house and a striking Cor-Ten steel extension. The site is well connected by foot, bus, tram, and nearby parking, making it easy to include in a broader exploration of Manchester’s cultural and historic landmarks.Inspiration for Future Change
PHM’s mission extends beyond preserving history; it aims to empower visitors to engage with contemporary issues of democracy and social justice. By exploring the radical stories of people coming together to champion ideas worth fighting for, the museum inspires visitors to consider their role in shaping a fairer future.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dalton Entry
0.5 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Mulberry Passage
0.5 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
John Bright Statue
0.5 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
0.6 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Free Trade Hall
0.6 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Bahnhof Manchester
0.6 km
Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.
Manchester City Council
0.6 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Roman Gardens
0.7 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
0.7 km
Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
0.7 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
St. Peter's Square
0.7 km
Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
0.7 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort
0.7 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
0.8 km
Final lock on the historic Rochdale Canal, linking Manchester’s waterways and embodying two centuries of industrial heritage.
Castlefield historical zone
0.8 km
Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mural - Peterloo.
0.0 km
A vivid street art mural in Manchester commemorating the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the enduring fight for democracy.
John Rylands Research Institute and Library
0.3 km
A neo-Gothic architectural gem housing one of the UK’s largest rare book collections and a vibrant research institute in the heart of Manchester.
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.
Parsonage Gardens
0.3 km
A peaceful garden oasis in central Manchester, rich with history and quiet reflection amid the city’s vibrant heart.
House of Fraser
0.3 km
Discover luxury shopping and historic charm at House of Fraser Manchester, a premier department store on Deansgate.
Saint John's Gardens
0.4 km
A serene urban oasis in Manchester preserving historic churchyard remnants and offering peaceful green space near Deansgate.
Islington Park
0.4 km
A peaceful urban park in Salford blending natural beauty, fitness facilities, and rich historical roots in a welcoming community setting.
Abraham Lincoln Statue
0.4 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Manchester honoring Abraham Lincoln and the city’s courageous support for abolition during the American Civil War.
Once Upon a Smile
0.4 km
A dedicated Greater Manchester charity base providing child-centred bereavement support, counselling and creative memory-making programmes in a compassionate, private setting.
St Mary's RC Church
0.5 km
Discover St Mary's RC Church, Manchester's historic 'Hidden Gem' blending Victorian artistry and deep Catholic heritage since 1794.
Barton Arcade
0.5 km
Step into Barton Arcade, a Victorian marvel of glass and iron, where historic elegance meets boutique shopping in the heart of Manchester.
The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
0.5 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 Ann's Church
0.5 km
Discover St Ann's Church, Manchester’s neo-classical gem and historic city centre landmark, blending 18th-century elegance with vibrant cultural heritage.
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.
Science and Industry Museum
0.5 km
Explore 250 years of innovation and industrial heritage at Manchester’s historic Science and Industry Museum, housed in the world’s oldest passenger railway station.
Essential places to dine
Masons
0.2 km
Elegant Modern British dining with art deco charm and a refreshingly simple menu philosophy.
Tattu Manchester
0.2 km
Modern Chinese cuisine and theatrical design in Manchester's Spinningfields district.
Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant
0.2 km
Cozy British dining with eclectic charm and seasonal flavors in Manchester’s lively Spinningfields district.
20 Stories
0.3 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from 20 Stories, a glamorous rooftop restaurant blending Modern European cuisine with stunning city views.
San Carlo - Manchester
0.3 km
Experience authentic regional Italian cuisine in a stylish, celebrity-frequented Manchester hotspot known for elegance and vibrant atmosphere.
Australasia
0.3 km
Stylish Pan-Asian dining in Manchester’s Spinningfields with vibrant flavors, chic design, and a lively atmosphere for special occasions.
Hawksmoor Manchester
0.4 km
Experience exquisite British steaks and seafood in a historic Victorian courthouse with impeccable service and elegant private dining.
Gaucho Manchester
0.4 km
Experience premium Argentine steaks and elegant dining in a spectacular historic church setting in the heart of Manchester.
Gusto Italian
0.4 km
Experience elegant Italian dining in Manchester’s historic Elliot House, where 1920s charm meets fresh, contemporary cuisine.
Climat
0.4 km
Sophisticated rooftop dining in Manchester with panoramic views, a Burgundy-focused wine cellar, and inventive seasonal sharing plates.
El Gato Negro Tapas Manchester
0.5 km
Stylish Spanish tapas in a historic Manchester townhouse with a vibrant bar, open kitchen dining, and a stunning rooftop terrace.
Italiana Fifty Five Great Northern
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in Manchester’s stylish Great Northern Warehouse setting.
Albert's Schloss - Manchester
0.5 km
A lively Bavarian-inspired beer hall in Manchester blending hearty food, live music, and vibrant nightlife in a unique social setting.
Almost Famous GN
0.5 km
A lively Manchester burger bar serving bold, indulgent American-style burgers with loaded fries in a vibrant, casual setting.
Annies
0.5 km
Experience hearty British classics and warm hospitality in the stylish, cozy setting of Annie's on Old Bank Street, Manchester.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Manchester Souvenirs Gifts & Presents Geek Elf Elux Bars Luggage storage locker
0.3 km
Authentic Manchester souvenirs and gifts with local charm, plus convenient luggage storage in the heart of Deansgate.
Pulse
0.5 km
Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
0.6 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.
TVSeriesJackets
0.6 km
Explore TVSeriesJackets in Manchester, where iconic TV show jackets come to life, blending style with your favorite characters' adventures.
Søstrene Grene
0.6 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Catch my Thrift
0.6 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
Rams Gift World
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.7 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
Menkind
0.8 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, Manchester Arndale’s vibrant destination for fun and innovative presents.
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
0.9 km
A vibrant Chinese art and craft gallery in Manchester’s Chinatown, showcasing handcrafted treasures and cultural heritage in a warm, welcoming space.
Amazonas Gifts
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Amazonas Gifts, nestled in the heart of Manchester Markets Piccadilly.
Hoot
0.9 km
Discover magical gifts and Harry Potter treasures at Hoot, a charming boutique nestled in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant shopping heart.
Stare Society
1.0 km
Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
Branded Like A Boss
1.0 km
Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
ItsFetch
1.0 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alchemist Spinningfields
0.2 km
Innovative cocktails and contemporary dining in Manchester’s vibrant Spinningfields district, blending theatrical flair with a lively social scene.
MOJO
0.2 km
Eclectic cocktail bar in Manchester’s heart, blending creative drinks with a lively, urban nightlife vibe.
The Gas Lamp
0.2 km
Discover Manchester’s atmospheric basement pub with a rich history, exceptional craft beers, and a cozy, characterful vibe beneath Bridge Street.
Arcane
0.4 km
Discover Arcane, a cozy Victorian-inspired cocktail bar in Manchester’s city centre, blending inventive drinks with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
The Blues Kitchen Manchester
0.4 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue, soulful live music, and vibrant vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Spinningfields.
Be At One - Manchester
0.4 km
Lively cocktail bar on Deansgate with 100+ drinks, private hire rooms, and unbeatable happy hour deals in the heart of Manchester nightlife.
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.
Slug & Lettuce - Albert Square Manchester
0.5 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Manchester’s Albert Square, perfect for lively brunches, evening drinks, and social celebrations.
Corbieres Bar
0.5 km
Discover Corbieres Bar, Manchester’s cozy underground spot famed for its eclectic jukebox, vegan-friendly pizzas, and welcoming vibe.
Salt Dog Slim's Manchester
0.5 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.
cask
0.6 km
Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.
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.
Cloud 23
0.7 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.
All Bar One Manchester
0.7 km
Stylish wine bar on Manchester’s King Street offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a lively, modern atmosphere for casual dining and drinks.
The Old Wellington
0.7 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Liv Manchester
0.3 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
0.4 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
History Nightclub
0.4 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
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.
Royal Vida Night Club
0.5 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.
Bijou Club
0.7 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Ark Manchester
0.8 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Popworld Manchester
0.8 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Bliss Club Manchester
0.8 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Cargo
0.9 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Satans Hollow
1.0 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
1.0 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
Viva Manchester
1.0 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Educational
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
