Science and Industry Museum, Manchester
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.
Located in the historic Liverpool Road area of Manchester, the Science and Industry Museum showcases 250 years of groundbreaking innovations that shaped the modern world. Housed in the world’s oldest surviving passenger railway station and adjacent historic buildings, it offers immersive galleries on industrial heritage, textiles, computing, and interactive science experiences. Visitors can explore permanent and temporary exhibitions, enjoy daily demonstrations, and delve into Manchester’s pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution.
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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Indoor
- 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 visiting time, especially during weekends and school holidays.
- Check the museum’s website for current information on refurbishment closures and accessible galleries before your visit.
- Allow at least 90 minutes to explore the permanent galleries; add more time if you want to enjoy special exhibitions or hands-on activities.
- Visit the café for sustainable snacks and drinks, or bring your own food to enjoy in the indoor picnic area.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Tram
Take the Manchester Metrolink tram to Deansgate-Castlefield station, a 5-minute walk from the museum. Trams run frequently from central Manchester and nearby districts, with tickets costing around £2-£4 depending on the zone. The tram is accessible and a convenient option for most visitors.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the Liverpool Road area near the museum, including services from Manchester city centre. Journey times vary from 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. Single fares typically cost £2-£3. Note that some buses may have limited frequency on weekends.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber provide direct access to the museum from anywhere in Manchester. Typical fares from the city centre range from £5 to £10 depending on traffic and time of day. This option is convenient but more expensive than public transport.
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Walking
If you are staying in central Manchester, the museum is within a 20 to 30-minute walk through the Castlefield area. The route is mostly flat and accessible, offering scenic views of canals and historic industrial architecture along the way.
Science and Industry Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Science and Industry Museum
A Living Testament to Manchester’s Industrial Legacy
The Science and Industry Museum stands on the site of the world’s oldest surviving passenger railway station, a symbol of Manchester’s pioneering role in the Industrial Revolution. This globally significant heritage site comprises several listed buildings, including the historic Liverpool Road Station and the first railway warehouse, dating back to 1830. The museum’s architecture and preserved industrial structures provide a tangible connection to the era when Manchester was the world’s first industrial city, making it a unique destination where history and innovation meet.Exploring 250 Years of Innovation and Discovery
Inside the Grade II listed New Warehouse, the museum presents a rich collection spanning two and a half centuries of scientific and industrial advances. Permanent galleries like Revolution Manchester and the Textiles Gallery reveal the city’s deep ties to cotton manufacturing and industrial machinery. Visitors can witness daily demonstrations of textile and steam-powered machines, bringing history to life through sights, sounds, and even smells. The Experiment Gallery offers hands-on interactive exhibits, engaging all ages in the wonders of science and technology.Dynamic Exhibitions and Educational Experiences
Alongside permanent displays, the museum hosts special exhibitions and events, including the popular ‘Power Up’ retro gaming exhibition during weekends and school holidays. These temporary exhibitions complement the core themes and invite visitors to explore science and industry from fresh perspectives. Educational talks, volunteer-led demonstrations, and family-friendly activities enrich the visitor experience, making the museum both informative and entertaining.The Museum’s Role in Conservation and Renewal
Currently undergoing a multi-million-pound restoration programme, the museum balances preserving its historic fabric with modernizing visitor facilities. While some areas like the Power Hall and parts of the original station remain closed due to scaffolding and refurbishment, the museum continues to offer ample exhibits and outdoor spaces such as the Planting Stories garden. This renewal effort aims to enhance sustainability and accessibility, ensuring the museum remains a vibrant cultural asset for future generations.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
The museum offers a welcoming environment with an on-site café serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals, using sustainable disposable materials. A shop featuring science-themed merchandise is open daily. Indoor picnic areas provide comfortable spaces for visitors to relax. Accessibility is a priority, with facilities and resources designed to accommodate diverse needs, including visual story guides and staff assistance. Although there is no on-site parking, the museum is well connected by public transport, encouraging sustainable travel.Immersive Journey into Manchester’s Scientific Heritage
Visiting the Science and Industry Museum is a journey through the transformative power of human ingenuity. From the earliest steam engines to the world’s first stored-program computer replica, the museum captures the spirit of innovation that propelled Manchester onto the global stage. Whether you are fascinated by engineering, textiles, computing, or interactive science, this museum offers a comprehensive and engaging insight into the forces that shaped the modern world and continue to inspire future discoveries.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
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
