Imperial War Museum North (IWM North), Manchester

Discover powerful stories of war and peace in Manchester’s iconic deconstructivist museum overlooking the Ship Canal.

4.5

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IWM North in Manchester is a striking museum dedicated to the impact of war on people’s lives, housed in a landmark deconstructivist building overlooking the Manchester Ship Canal. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, it features powerful exhibitions including over 2,000 objects, immersive galleries, and thought-provoking artworks such as the iconic Poppies installation. Entry is free, making it an accessible cultural destination for all visitors interested in history, art, and conflict.

A brief summary to IWM North

Trafford Wharf Rd, Manchester, Trafford Park, Stretford, M17 1TZ, GB
+441618364000
Visit website
Duration: 2.5 to 4 hours
Free
Indoor
Mobile reception: 4 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

Visit on weekday mornings to avoid the busiest times, as weekends and school holidays attract larger crowds.
Allow at least 2.5 to 3 hours to fully explore the exhibitions and immersive Big Picture Show.
Use the sensory backpacks and ear defenders available at the information desk if you need support with noise or sensory sensitivity.
Check the café opening hours if you plan to have refreshments; it closes at 4:30pm.

Getting There

Bus

Take the X50 bus from Manchester Piccadilly Gardens to the Trafford Centre, which stops directly outside IWM North. The journey takes approximately 25-35 minutes. Tickets cost around £3-£5. Service runs frequently but check schedules for weekend variations.
Car

Drive via the M60 motorway, exiting at Junction 9, then follow signs to Trafford Park and Trafford Wharf Road. Parking is available on-site with charges applied, and overnight parking is permitted with intercom access. Expect a 15-25 minute drive from central Manchester depending on traffic.
Cycling

Cycle lanes lead to the museum through Trafford and Salford, offering a green and active travel option. Bicycle parking is available on-site. The ride from central Manchester takes about 20-30 minutes depending on your starting point and route.
Walking

From MediaCityUK, a 10-15 minute walk along flat, paved paths leads to IWM North. The route is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it a pleasant option for nearby visitors.

IWM North location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about IWM North

Architectural Innovation and Setting

IWM North stands as a remarkable example of deconstructivist architecture, designed by Daniel Libeskind. Its fragmented, angular structure symbolises the shattered world caused by conflict, with three interlocking shards representing earth, air, and water. Situated on Trafford Wharf Road beside the Manchester Ship Canal, the museum offers panoramic views of the surrounding Trafford Park industrial area, blending its modern design with the historic industrial landscape.

Exploring War Through Objects and Stories

The museum’s extensive collection includes over 2,000 objects that narrate the human experience of war from the First World War to the present day. Visitors encounter significant artefacts such as a First World War field gun, a Russian T-34 tank, an AV-8B Harrier jet, and rusted steel from the World Trade Center. These exhibits are arranged thematically and chronologically, providing a moving and educational journey through conflict’s impact on individuals and societies.

Immersive Exhibitions and Artistic Responses

IWM North features innovative exhibitions like the 360-degree Big Picture Show, which uses surround sound and projected images to immerse visitors in wartime perspectives. The museum also hosts contemporary art installations, including the iconic Poppies ceramic sculptures cascading from the ceiling, and "Chila Welcomes You," an exhibition reflecting on Indian migration to Britain post-Second World War. These artworks deepen the emotional resonance of the museum’s themes.

Visitor Facilities and Accessibility

Open daily from 10am to 5pm (except 24-26 December), IWM North provides accessible facilities including disabled toilets, baby changing, and sensory backpacks for those with additional needs. The café offers a range of hot and cold food until 4:30pm, and the shop is open until 5pm. Parking is available with charges applied, and cycle lanes serve the area. The museum’s volunteers, identifiable by red uniforms, assist visitors and enhance the experience.

Educational and Community Engagement

As part of the Imperial War Museums network, IWM North engages audiences of all ages through learning sessions, talks, and special events. It serves as a cultural hub for understanding war’s complex legacy, fostering reflection and dialogue. The museum’s location near MediaCityUK also situates it within a vibrant creative and media district, enriching its community connections.

Significance and Impact

IWM North is more than a museum; it is a place of remembrance and education that challenges visitors to consider the consequences of conflict. Its combination of striking architecture, powerful storytelling, and artistic expression makes it a unique cultural landmark in Greater Manchester and an essential destination for those interested in history, art, and peace.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Sky Hook Statue 1

1.1 km

Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.

5 Sir Matt Busby Way

1.1 km

Old Trafford, the legendary Theatre of Dreams, is Manchester United’s iconic home since 1910, blending rich football history with modern innovation.

Salford Lads Club

1.8 km

A Victorian youth sanctuary where music history, social purpose, and community spirit converge.

LS Lowry birthplace

2.6 km

Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.

Bahnhof Manchester

2.9 km

Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.

Rochdale Canal Lock 92

2.9 km

Final lock on the historic Rochdale Canal, linking Manchester’s waterways and embodying two centuries of industrial heritage.

Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall

3.0 km

Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.

Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall

Roman Gardens

3.0 km

Discover Manchester’s Roman past through tranquil gardens featuring reconstructed fortifications and ancient pathways in the heart of Castlefield.

Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort

3.0 km

Explore the evocative remains of Mamucium’s eastern wall, a cornerstone of Manchester’s Roman heritage and ancient military might.

Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort

Castlefield historical zone

3.1 km

Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.

St Clement's Parish Church

3.4 km

Victorian Gothic masterpiece with five centuries of spiritual heritage in Chorlton-cum-Hardy.

Friedrich Engels Statue

3.4 km

A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.

Stretford Weir

3.5 km

Historic riverside weir on the Mersey offering scenic walks, flood management insight, and a peaceful nature escape near Manchester.

Free Trade Hall

3.5 km

Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.

Sightseeing Manchester

3.6 km

Explore the vibrant culture, rich history, and iconic landmarks of Manchester, England—where every corner tells a unique story.

Unmissable attractions to see

Media City Footbridge

0.2 km

An elegant cable-stayed swing bridge linking MediaCityUK with cultural landmarks across the Manchester Ship Canal.

The Lowry

0.2 km

A dynamic cultural landmark in Salford Quays, The Lowry offers world-class theatre, galleries, and vibrant arts experiences on Manchester’s waterfront.

Pier Eight Restaurant

0.2 km

Discover the exquisite flavors of Modern British cuisine at Pier Eight Restaurant, set against the stunning backdrop of The Quays in Manchester.

Quayside Tours Meeting Point

0.3 km

Start your journey through Salford’s rich heritage and vibrant Media City at the iconic Blue Tower meeting point.

BBC Dock House

0.3 km

Explore the vibrant BBC Dock House at Salford Quays, where cutting-edge broadcasting meets stunning waterfront views and cultural energy.

The Quays

0.3 km

A regenerated waterfront of museums, media studios, shopping and waterside dining that fuses dockland history with contemporary city life.

Salford Riviera

0.4 km

Salford Riviera: Where historic docks meet vibrant culture and scenic waterfront living in the heart of Salford Quays.

Quayside MediaCityUK

0.4 km

Waterside outlet shopping and family leisure in the heart of MediaCityUK’s regenerated Salford Quays waterfront.

Salford Quays Community Gardens

0.6 km

A peaceful community-driven garden oasis offering seasonal beauty and sustainable urban gardening in the heart of Salford Quays.

Salford Watersports Centre

0.6 km

Urban watersports hub offering paddleboarding, kayaking, and year-round open water swimming on Salford Quays.

Salford quay’s

0.7 km

Discover Salford Quays, Greater Manchester’s vibrant waterfront with iconic culture, sport, shopping, and stunning architecture all within a walkable urban oasis.

Manchester United Museum & Stadium Tour

0.8 km

Step inside Old Trafford to explore Manchester United’s legendary museum and stadium in an immersive football journey.

Gnome Island

0.8 km

Discover the enchanting miniature world of Gnome Island, a playful gnome colony perched on a historic concrete island in Salford Quays.

Manchester United

0.9 km

Experience the legendary 'Theatre of Dreams,' home to Manchester United since 1910, where football history and passion come alive.

Old Trafford

0.9 km

Explore Old Trafford, the iconic 'Theatre of Dreams' and largest football club stadium in the UK, home to Manchester United's legendary legacy.

Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm with freshly made pasta and unique flambéed dishes in the heart of Manchester.

Tattu Manchester

3.2 km

Modern Chinese cuisine and theatrical design in Manchester's Spinningfields district.

Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Craftbrew

0.3 km

Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.

The Dockyard

0.3 km

Rugged dockside pub in MediaCityUK: cask ales, hearty pies, and industrial charm for after-work vibes and Quays camaraderie.

SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Media City

0.4 km

Craft beer haven in MediaCityUK: house-brewed IPAs, pizzas, and lively vibes await at Seven Bro7hers' Salford outpost, perfect for post-work pints or casual hangs.

11 Central

0.4 km

Riverside bar in MediaCityUK serving craft brews and bites amid Salford's creative quayside energy—ideal for relaxed evenings with canal views.

Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha

0.9 km

Luxury glass-fronted shisha lounge on Salford Quays, blending waterfront views, flavorful hookahs, Moroccan teas, and plush VIP vibes for unforgettable evenings.

Matchstick Man

1.0 km

Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.

The Wharf

2.8 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

2.8 km

Lively Irish pub on Manchester's Castle Quay, blending sports screens, hearty grub, and canalside cheer for unforgettable nights out.

Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester

2.9 km

Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.

Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester

cask

3.1 km

Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.

Atlas Bar

3.1 km

Discover Manchester’s iconic gin bar with 570+ gins, award-winning service, and a year-round heated terrace in the heart of Deansgate.

The Deansgate

3.2 km

Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.

Lock 91

3.2 km

Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.

Cloud 23

3.2 km

Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.

The Blues Kitchen Manchester

3.3 km

Experience authentic Southern barbecue, soulful live music, and vibrant vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Spinningfields.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Ark Manchester

3.3 km

Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.

Royal Vida Night Club

3.3 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.

Popworld Manchester

3.3 km

Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.

History Nightclub

3.3 km

Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.

42's

3.4 km

Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.

Bliss Club Manchester

3.4 km

Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.

Venue Nightclub

3.5 km

Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.

Club Liv Manchester

3.6 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

3.7 km

Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.

Kable

3.8 km

A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.

Bijou Club

3.9 km

Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.

Hidden at Downtex Mill

4.0 km

Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.

Satans Hollow

4.0 km

Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.

FAC251 - Factory Manchester

4.1 km

Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.

Cargo

4.2 km

Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Imperial War Museum North (IWM North), Manchester

A brief summary to IWM North

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Car

Cycling

Walking

IWM North location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of IWM North

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about IWM North

Architectural Innovation and Setting

Exploring War Through Objects and Stories

Immersive Exhibitions and Artistic Responses

Visitor Facilities and Accessibility

Educational and Community Engagement

Significance and Impact

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Sky Hook Statue 1

5 Sir Matt Busby Way

Salford Lads Club

LS Lowry birthplace

Bahnhof Manchester

Rochdale Canal Lock 92

Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall

Roman Gardens

Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort

Castlefield historical zone

St Clement's Parish Church

Friedrich Engels Statue

Stretford Weir

Free Trade Hall

Sightseeing Manchester

Unmissable attractions to see

Media City Footbridge

The Lowry

Pier Eight Restaurant

Quayside Tours Meeting Point

BBC Dock House

The Quays

Salford Riviera

Quayside MediaCityUK

Salford Quays Community Gardens

Salford Watersports Centre

Salford quay’s

Manchester United Museum & Stadium Tour

Gnome Island

Manchester United

Old Trafford

Essential places to dine

Turtle Bay Salford Quays

The Alchemist MediaCity UK

Nando's Salford Quays

Bella Italia - Salford Quays

Unagi

Lime

Harvester Quayside Mediacityuk

The Botanist Media City

Quay House Beefeater

The Banyan Tree

Albert's Shed Restaurant Manchester

Dukes 92

Dom's Italia

Italiana Fifty Five Liverpool Road

Tattu Manchester

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Body Shop

The Works

Next Outlet

Flock and Gaggle

M&S Outlet

The Sweet Emporium

SPAR Salford Quays

Salford Shopping Centre

Science and Industry Museum Shop

INFINITE RUNNING