Manchester always has plenty going on to see and do. It has a wealth of galleries and exhibition spaces showcasing local and international artists’ work. With a number of highly impressive free galleries from the traditional to the up-and-coming an Art & Design school trip to Manchester provides an excellent regional options for schools.
Manchester has a number of good quality branded hostels and hotels which are suitable for school groups. These include the YHA, Premier Inns and Travellodges in easy reach of the city centre,
Artzu Gallery supports established and emerging artists working across mediums, from painting and sculpture to photography. Situated in the heart of Spinningfields (Manchester’s financial district) for over a decade, the gallery overlooks the greenery of Hardman Square. Artzu Gallery is considered of the city’s most progressive independent gallery spaces, and continues to support local talent and subsequent projects around the world.
HOME was founded by the Greater Manchester Visual Arts Trust and opened in 2015. Serving as Manchester’s international centre for the performing arts, HOME houses three floors of art galleries, three screens showing the best of independent film, and operates an international distribution service for contemporary visual arts publications and catalogues. HOME’s aim is to showcase the best of contemporary theatre, visual art, and film, whilst supporting local education and community participation to pave the way for Manchester’s next generation of creatives. The team can provide a free gallery tour for your group upon prior arrangement.
Castlefield Gallery is a limited company and charity that aims to develop and support the careers of emerging contemporary artists. It was founded as an artist-run space in 1984, and has since become one of Northern England’s most active organisations. The gallery has promoted artists at key stages of their careers, including subsequent Turner Prize nominees and winners, alongside exhibitors at international festivals.
Located on the ground floor of the Spinningfields building in Hardman Square, Bureau Gallery represents a diverse selection of multimedia artists. The gallery produces a series of rotating exhibitions which take place both within the local gallery walls and at off-site locations, incorporating guest presenters with Bureau’s roster of high-calibre artists, including special works commissioned by the gallery.
Manchester Art Gallery is a publicly owned gallery space. First opened in 1824, the exhibition space now occupies three buildings, the oldest of which was designed by Sir Charles Barr and remains Grade I listed; it was originally home to the Royal Manchester Institution. The gallery houses a civic art collection which includes works of local and international significance, including work by local artists such as Impressionist painter Wynford Dewhurst.
The Whitworth Art Gallery has been part of the University of Manchester since 1889, and holds both historic and contemporary collections and exhibitions. The gallery is well-known for its displays of modern art and sculpture, including works by British sculptor Jacob Epstein, British artist and sculptor Barbara Hepworth, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso. Free guided tours are available subject to availability at 2pm.
Located in Greater Manchester’s Salford Quays, The Lowry showcases works of both visual and performing art, with two main theatres and studio spaces. It runs a programme of special modern and contemporary art exhibitions, alongside photographic and design works, and the work of English artist and gallery namesake L.S. Lowry in its collection.
Close to Salford University and in the grounds of Peel Park lies Salford Museum & Art Gallery, which opened in 1850 as the very first 'unconditionally free' public library in the UK. Now, you can wander its rooms and marvel at the fantastic collection of artworks on display – it’s a real celebration of Victorian painting.
IWM North is about people and their stories, about how lives have been and still are shaped by war and conflict.
Be prepared to embark on a voyage of discovery exploring science, innovation and industry. The collection here documents 250 years of discoveries and innovation that began in Manchester and went on to influence the world.
Explore the world's finest collection of football artefacts and archives.
Go behind the scenes at the world's fastest growing football club. Discover the secrets of a spectacular stadium and the story of a much-loved football club.
You'll visit the Theatre of Dreams for a guided tour where your guide will show you the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand, changing rooms and the players tunnel. Your visit will also include an educational session and free time in the museum and the megastore.
Media City is home to a host of BBC channels and programmes including Match of the Day, Blue Peter, BBC Breakfast, CBBC and BBC Sport. Take a behind the scenes tour here and walk in the footsteps of your favourite celebrities.