Science and Industry Museum
Discover 250 years of innovations that began in Manchester and changed the world at the Science and Industry Museum, featuring hands-on exhibits and historic machinery.
Planning your visit
The Science and Industry Museum occupies the world's oldest surviving passenger railway station — the 1830 Liverpool Road terminus of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway, the first intercity line, which effectively invented modern rail travel.
Manchester's claim is substantial: the first industrial city, built on cotton, and the place where the atom was split, the first stored-program computer ran, and graphene was isolated.
The Power Hall holds working steam engines, fired up on operating days, and the noise and heat of them running is the museum's best moment. Textile machinery demonstrates the spinning and weaving processes that made the city.
Long-running redevelopment has closed parts of the site at times, so checking what is open is worthwhile.
Admission is free. It sits in Castlefield. Allow two to three hours. Bookable options include private tours. Current availability is shown below.
Before you book
Where is Science and Industry Museum?
Science and Industry Museum is in Manchester, United Kingdom. The map on this page marks its exact location.
How long should I allow for Science and Industry Museum?
Allow two to three hours. That is the time the collection itself takes at an unhurried pace, before any queue.
Do I need to book Science and Industry Museum in advance?
Private tours are arranged for a set date and time, so they need booking in advance.
