People’s History Museum
Photo: Own work — CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Located in Manchester, the People’s History Museum showcases the development of democracy in Britain through exhibits on workers’ rights, social justice, and political history.
Planning your visit
The People's History Museum tells the story of British democracy from below, and Manchester is the right city for it — Peterloo happened here in 1819, when cavalry charged a crowd demanding parliamentary reform and killed eighteen people, and the city was central to Chartism, trade unionism and the founding of the Labour Party.
The collection's most striking element is the banners: the largest collection of trade union and political banners in the world, enormous painted silk works carried at demonstrations, which are conserved in a visible workshop within the museum.
The galleries cover two centuries of campaigns — the vote, the eight-hour day, women's suffrage, the welfare state, anti-racism, LGBT rights — presenting democracy as something contested and won rather than granted.
Admission is free, which is consistent with the institution's politics.
It sits by the Irwell in central Manchester. Allow two hours. Bookable options include private tours with entry. Current availability is listed below.
Before you book
Where is People’s History Museum?
People’s History Museum is in Manchester, United Kingdom. The map on this page marks its exact location.
How long should I allow for People’s History Museum?
Allow two hours. That is the time the collection itself takes at an unhurried pace, before any queue.
Is People’s History Museum free to enter?
Yes, general admission to People’s History Museum is free. Guided tours and special exhibitions may still be charged separately.
Do I need to book People’s History Museum in advance?
Private tours are arranged for a set date and time, so they need booking in advance.
