See & Do

Manchester Art Gallery

Free

Arts Attraction

Hightlight

City Centre
Events
Family Friendly

Manchester Art Gallery is one of the country’s finest art museums found in the heart of Manchester’s city centre. This Free attraction is a great way of saving some money and entertaining the family, during holidays or just weekend get aways to Manchester.

A mix of works from some wonderful historic collections with the best international contemporary art to bring fresh perspectives to familiar images, create visual dialogues and encourage conversation and debate.

Manchester Art Gallery welcome over half a million visitors each year to this family friendly attraction in the city, a blend of historic and contemporary architecture that echoes their innovative artistic programme. Through their exhibitions and events, they offer extraordinary encounters with brilliant art.

Search the collection of over 46,000 objects of fine art, decorative art and costume, developed over 200 years and still growing.

Explore the collections of fine art, spanning six centuries and including many major modern and contemporary pieces. Famous for their 19th century British paintings, particularly the outstanding collection of Pre-Raphaelite works.

Decorative arts collections showcase the artistry, tastes and techniques of every era and culture, from ancient civilisations to today’s designer makers.

The museum’s collections of ceramics, silver, glass, furniture and costume are especially fine. By constantly renewing and updating the collection displays so you’ll discover something new every time you visit.

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Opening Hours

Monday: Closed

Tuesday: 10:00 - 17:00

Wednesday: 10:00 - 17:00

Thursday: 10:00 - 17:00

Friday: 10:00 - 17:00

Closed

Saturday: 10:00 - 17:00

Sunday: 10:00 - 17:00

Google Reviews

Manchester Art Gallery

4.610425 reviews

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JUNK Y

a month ago

A cute little gem, tiny version of national art gallery (yes they even used the same entrance stairs layout and same/similar paint). The art said it all. A nice place to have a lovely peaceful stroll. The campaign of "using less phone" (Comfort corners with art pieces and plenty sofas) is very enlightening because that's what 90% people do in there including me! The location is also handy (compared to Manchester museum), right in Chinatown as well as on the route of free bus 2. Seemed to have more volunteers than Manchester museum, they all were very helpful and welcoming . Worth a visit, or a few!

Patrik Krizek

2 months ago

Manchester Art Gallery is a well-established cultural venue in the city centre, housing a diverse collection of art from classic to contemporary. It features works by renowned artists, including local and international painters, sculptors, and photographers. The gallery offers free entry and regularly hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events. Its Victorian architecture adds charm, while the galleries provide a calm space to explore art and history. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in art or looking for a peaceful retreat in Manchester.

Mercy Kibenda

a week ago

I visited the Manchester Art Gallery this afternoon and had a fantastic experience. Located right in the heart of Manchester City Centre, the gallery is really easy to get to – just a short walk from Picadilly bus station and nearby tram stops, and the main train stations - It’s perfectly placed for anyone visiting the city, with plenty of restaurants, cafés anf shops in the area to explore before or after your visit. Inside the gallery, I explored several exhibitions and galleries, but I especially enjoyed the fashion galleries, they were very creative. The collection was beautifully curated, offering a unique glimpse into design, culture, and history through fashion. I also spent some time in the gallery shop which has a lovely range of gifts, art books, and unique items inspired by the exhibitions. The gallery café has a nice place to relax afterward, it is a calm, stylish space to enjoy a coffee or a light bite. I definitely recommend the gallery to anyone, whether you're an art lover or just looking for something different to do in Manchester City Centre.

Kim O

a week ago

Beautiful art! Colorful, ornate and so worth the visit! Free to enter but donations accepted.

Zander T

a month ago

This is a charming and well put together, if smaller, art gallery right in the centre of Manchester. They are undergoing works I believe so the collection is a little changed, but works are thoughtfully presented and you enter into the first gallery where works of art are highlighted that reflect the grand tour and colonialism. It is interesting to learn how curators, contributors, and artists alike have selected these works, with personal insights. It isn't dictatorial and anyone that gets offended is clearly off their meds. Around the rear of the museum is an interesting collection of Dutch works of art, and a selection of statues presented in packing crates highlighting the vast reserves of undisplayed art, and also highlighting some gaps in knowledge surrounding some works. A visual representation of the detective work that happens was interesting and impactful. In the lower galleries a section has soft play and an unusual hexaganol ping pong table for younger visitors to enjoy. There is a cafe but it isn't clear if you are permitted to use those facilities to enjoy your packed lunch. Unlike other museums and galleries a picnic area isn't clearly highlighted. There is a well stocked gift shop with some interesting purchases to be made. It doesn't feel overloaded with tat just to turn a quick buck, a trap some attractions fall into. Recommend if you are in the area, wouldn't say it's a reason to visit the city on its own.