The Peoples History Museum
Left Bank, Spinningfields
View on Google MapsPhoto: Māris Ļaudaks
About The Peoples History Museum
Explore Britain's labour and social history through engaging exhibitions at this fascinating Spinningfields museum, complete with accessible facilities, onsite dining and picnic-friendly spaces.
What's nearby
- Manchester Family Court next door
- Manchester Crown Court (Crown Square) next door
- Slug & Lettuce - Spinningfields Manchester 150m away
- Aviva Studios, home of Factory International 500m away
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Parking
- ✓Paid car park
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
- ✓Accessible toilet
- ✓Accessible seating
Payment
- ✓Contactless
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Opening hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday
- Closed
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
This was one of the most moving museums I visited during my trip. It's a museum about the history of ordinary people and NOT of monarchs, aristocrats, or the owners of countless estates, as is so often the case in England, but of the millions who went to work every day and struggled to make ends meet. It tells the story of how, from the 19th century onwards, they gradually won their rights through extraordinary perseverance, sacrifice, and collective action. I visited on 4 July for one of the museum's wonderful after-hours events, featuring a live musical performance. Wandering through the galleries accompanied by such beautiful music made the experience even more powerful. The exhibitions are exceptionally well curated, and the museum is simply a lovely space to spend time in. Every member of staff I encountered was incredibly kind. There's also an excellent café and a delightful shop. The museum not only tells the story of Manchester's deep-rooted working class history with great care, but also skilfully weaves in the intersecting struggles of women and LGBTQ+ communities, presenting a rich and inclusive account of social change. This is an essential visit if you're in Manchester. And if you're able to, please don't forget to leave a donation. It truly deserves your support.
· via Google
Not been in for a few years. Would have loved it if it hadn't changed in that time. However it changed around quite a bit, with exhibits swapped out and the event gallery now celebrating LGBT+ campaigns and particularly those combined with the Trade Union movement. Also had some time in the event hall and it is magnificent. Also tasted the food. Coffee wasn't fantastic, however for the event it was in flasks. The cake was absolutely wonderful, the blondie particularly great. It's free to get in, plenty of donation points both electronic and old school. Should say that there are lots of interactive bits for kids of all ages, as well as dressing up opportunities 😉 Old style juke box, however it's now CDs rather than 45s, which is a pity but good selection of tunes. I may also be misremembering the 45s So, go and pay a visit.
· via Google
This is a cool museum! Currently focusing on the working class, miners, LGBTQIA+ and old labour vs conservative politics. Three floors of important, historic and funny exhibitions. Came here on a date and kissed on every floor, then purchased a cool tea towel (he got the poster version).
· via Google
Interesting content, well-organised museum and exhibition. Tells the story of human rights in the UK, and the history of protests throughout decades and up to modern days. Plus it's free and definitely worth a visit when visiting Manchester.
· via Google
People say this museum offers informative and interactive exhibits about social history, particularly working-class history, and the fight for rights and equality. They highlight the free entry, the well-preserved artifacts, and the engaging presentation of ideas. They also like the friendly and helpful staff and volunteers.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Leftbank, Manchester, M3 3ER Get directions
- Category
- Museums & Galleries
- Guest rating
- 4.5 / 5 (3,806 reviews)
- Suitable for
- All Ages
- Setting
- Indoor
- Good for children
- Yes
- Toilets on site
- Yes
- Destination
- Manchester