John Dalton Statue, Manchester
Honoring John Dalton, father of atomic theory and pioneer of colour blindness research, with a distinguished statue in Manchester.
The John Dalton Statue in Manchester honors the pioneering chemist and physicist who formulated the atomic theory and first described colour blindness, known as Daltonism. This seated bronze statue by William Theed, originally placed in Piccadilly Gardens and relocated in 1966, stands as a tribute to Dalton’s lasting impact on science and Manchester’s heritage.
A brief summary to John Dalton Statue
- Manchester, Manchester, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the statue’s details and surrounding historic area.
- Combine your visit with nearby Manchester Town Hall and other scientific landmarks for a rich cultural experience.
- Learn about Dalton’s work on atomic theory and colour blindness at the Science and Industry Museum nearby.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take Manchester Metrolink tram to St Peter's Square stop, about 10 minutes walk from the statue. Trams run every 6-12 minutes, with tickets costing approximately £3-£5 one way.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve Chester Street and nearby Oxford Road, including routes 142 and 143, with frequent service every 10-15 minutes. A single fare costs around £2.50.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi from Manchester Piccadilly Station to the statue takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10.
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Walking
From Manchester city centre, the statue is a 15-20 minute walk over mostly flat terrain, suitable for most visitors and wheelchair accessible.
John Dalton Statue 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 John Dalton Statue
Commemorating a Scientific Pioneer
The John Dalton Statue in Manchester pays homage to one of the city’s most influential scientists, John Dalton (1766–1844). Renowned as the father of atomic theory, Dalton revolutionized chemistry by proposing that all matter is composed of atoms, which are indivisible and unique to each element. His work laid the foundation for modern chemical science, despite some inaccuracies later corrected by subsequent discoveries. Dalton was also the first to describe colour blindness, a condition often called Daltonism in his honor. The statue immortalizes his legacy in the city where he lived, taught, and conducted much of his groundbreaking research.A Sculpture with a Storied Past
The seated statue was sculpted by William Theed and was originally installed in Piccadilly Gardens before being moved in 1966 to its current location outside the former John Dalton College of Technology on Chester Street. The statue captures Dalton in a contemplative pose, reflecting his deep engagement with scientific inquiry. It is a significant cultural landmark in Manchester, symbolizing the city’s rich history of innovation and intellectual achievement.Dalton’s Manchester and His Scientific Contributions
Dalton moved to Manchester in 1793, where he tutored in natural philosophy and science. He joined the Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society, gaining access to a well-equipped laboratory that enabled his prolific scientific output. Among his many contributions were pioneering studies in meteorology, color vision, and atomic weights. Dalton’s atomic theory, presented in 1803, was a transformative moment in science, influencing generations of chemists and physicists. His dedication to science was matched by his humility and commitment to education.Legacy and Local Reverence
Dalton was deeply beloved in Manchester, evidenced by the city funding a life-size statue during his lifetime—a rare honor for a scientist. His funeral procession was one of the largest in the city’s history, with tens of thousands paying their respects. Beyond the statue, Dalton’s name endures in academic scholarships, university buildings, and the scientific unit of atomic mass, the dalton (Da). His eyes were donated for scientific study after his death, reflecting his lifelong quest to understand colour blindness.Artistic and Cultural Context
The statue is part of Manchester’s broader celebration of scientific achievement, complementing other monuments such as the statue of James Prescott Joule in the Town Hall. It stands as a testament not only to Dalton’s scientific genius but also to Manchester’s role as a hub of industrial and intellectual progress during the 18th and 19th centuries. The statue’s placement near educational institutions underscores its ongoing inspiration to students and researchers.Visiting the Site Today
Situated in a vibrant area of Manchester, the John Dalton Statue offers visitors a moment to reflect on the city’s scientific heritage. Its proximity to other historic landmarks and cultural sites makes it a meaningful stop for those interested in the history of science and Manchester’s development. The statue remains a focal point for commemorations and educational activities celebrating Dalton’s enduring influence.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
John Dalton Statue
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Honoring John Dalton, father of atomic theory and pioneer of colour blindness research, with a distinguished statue in Manchester.
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Castlefield historical zone
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Unmissable attractions to see
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The Bridgewater Hall
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Essential places to dine
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Don Giovanni - Italian Restaurant Manchester
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Habesha Restaurant
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Fumo by San Carlo - Manchester
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Adam Reid at The French
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Mount Street Dining Room & Bar
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Podium
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James Martin Manchester
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Dom's Italia
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Evuna Deansgate
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Dimitri's - Tapas Meze Bar & Restaurant
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Almost Famous GN
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Don Marco
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Stare Society
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ItsFetch
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Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
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Futuristic cornershop at Deansgate Square's base: craft coffee, local brews, zero-waste refills, and artisanal bites amid Manchester's iconic towers.
Curvilicious Clothing
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T.La Art & Craft Gallery
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The University of Manchester Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
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
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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
- Solo Female Friendly
