People's History Museum is the national museum of democracy, telling the story of its development in Britain through the radical and inspiring stories of people coming together to fight for a fairer world.

People's History Museum | Museums in Manchester

• Opening Hours:

  • Wednesday – Monday: 10am–5pm

• Location: People's History Museum, Left Bank, Spinningfields, Manchester, M3 3ER

• Suitable for: All ages

• Booking: Free entry; donations welcome. Some ticketed events.

• Website: https://phm.org.uk

• Contact: 0161 838 9190

Housed in a beautifully converted Edwardian pump house on the banks of the River Irwell in Spinningfields, People's History Museum is unlike any other museum in Britain. As the national museum of democracy, it explores the struggles and achievements of ordinary people who shaped the world we live in today — from the fight for the vote to workers' rights, civil liberties and social justice. Entry is free, and the museum welcomes visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

The museum's permanent galleries tell the story of democracy's development in Britain across two floors, with highlights including one of the world's largest collections of political banners, rare trade union artefacts, and hands-on and digital interactives for adults and children alike. These are complemented by a rolling programme of temporary exhibitions, talks, tours and community events. The museum also holds the Labour History Archive and Study Centre, which is available to visit by appointment.

People's History Museum is family friendly throughout, with buggies welcome, accessible toilets, simple signage, a quiet room and sensory tools available to borrow. The Gather café is open during museum hours (hot food until 3pm), and the PHM shop stocks a thoughtfully curated range of books, gifts and homeware inspired by the collection, with many products made by local designers. Friday afternoons between 2pm and 5pm are reserved as a dedicated quiet time, during which group visits are not taken.

Photo credit: https://phm.org.uk