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Wondering what to do in Manchester for free? We are here to help!
Boasting a pioneering industrial heritage, two of the best club football teams on the planet, a revered music scene and world-class architecture, there is a lot to see in Manchester.
But that doesn’t mean you’ll end up bankrupt trying to see them all!
One of the best things about Manchester is that it is a city that has something for every visitor, irrespective of their budget.
If you plan on visiting, or currently live in the city, and are a bit short of cash, don’t worry. There are plenty of ways you can explore this wonderful place without having to spend any money.
Don’t believe me? Well, here are the 42 best free things to do in Manchester!
1. Free Walking tour of Manchester
- Address: Alan Turing Memorial, Sackville Gardens, opposite Esquires Cafe near Canal Street, M1 3BH
Manchester is a big city, so to get your bearings, one of the best things to do is join the free walking tour of Manchester.
There are other walking tours offered in Manchester and while they make for a cheap activity, this one is the only one that is categorised as ‘free’.
Available every day from 11 am, they start from the Alan Turing Memorial, which you will find in Sackville Gardens.
From there, a knowledgeable, English-speaking, Mancunian guide will take you to some of the city’s most notable sites and attractions.
During this time you will see impressive architectural structures, hear historical tales and learn more about urban and street art legends.
You will also be able to immerse yourself in the city’s football, music and rave culture and discover more about the political pioneers and industrial inventions that contributed to Manchester’s development.
On the tour, you can expect to see the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester Town Hall, University of Manchester, Gay Village, China Town, Manchester Central Library, National Football Museum and Manchester Cathedral, among many other landmarks.
If you are looking for interesting and free things to do in Manchester, this is a no-brainer!
2. Science & Industry Museum
- Address: St Johns, Lower Byrom St, Manchester M3 4FP
For those wanting a fix of local history and culture, the Science and Industry Museum is a terrific place to get that.
Located on Liverpool Road, it is undoubtedly one of the best free museums in Manchester.
Presenting the evolution of science, technology and industry, with a particular slant on the city’s significant contributions in those areas.
Initially called the North Western Museum of Science and Industry when it first opened its doors in 1969, the museum’s displays and exhibits are centred around three main themes.
This includes power (water, electricity, gas, steam), transport (cars, railway locomotive and rolling stock) and other notable parts of the city’s development, that relate to sewage and sanitation, textiles, computing and communications.
Residing next to St John’s Quarter, the museum sits within a Grade I listed building which was the site of the first passenger railway station ever built in the world.
Constructed in 1830, the station was called Manchester Liverpool Road and was designed to be a major stop on the Liverpool and Manchester Railway line.
3. Castlefield Viaduct
- Address: Catalan Square, Duke St, Manchester M3 4PU
Constructed in 1892, the Castlefield Viaduct is a historic Grade II-listed railway bridge that has been thoughtfully re-developed into a 330m-long sky park.
Owned by the National Trust, the bridge had been derelict since 1969 when the defunct Manchester Central Station (now the Manchester Central Convention Complex), was removed from service.
But now, after extensive refurbishments, it is a stunning garden walkway that features over 3,000 plant species.
This includes the likes of cotton grass, ferns, fennel, broom and fleabane. All of which showcase the local environment’s lush biodiversity.
Drawn up by the London-based Twelve Architects, the site was created to provide ‘moments of joy’ to Manchester locals. It has provided a much-needed green space for residents to enjoy.
To access the site, you will need to make your way over to Catalan Square on Duke Street. Once there you will be able to stroll along the converted bridge walkway.
4. Walking around Heaton Park
- Address: Middleton Rd, Manchester M25 2SW
For over 120 years Heaton Park has played an important role in the lives of many Mancunians.
Comprising 600 acres of tranquil green space and rolling grasslands, the park is a popular outdoor recreational space that is packed full of major attractions.
This includes a beach with a boating lake, a championship standard golf course and Heaton Hall. A gorgeous 18th-century Grade I Listed Building which is one of the most impressive stately homes in the region.
Designed by renowned architect James Wyatt, the public can explore inside the building to see the dining room, music room, library and the rare Etruscan room.
All of which are beautifully presented with authentic decor and furnishing from the period.
The park is renowned for being a place where locals can come and relax.
As well as enjoy a picnic, festivals, public events, concerts and performances, which include open-air theatre productions like Shakespeare and the ‘Wizard of Oz’.
5. Ordsall Hall
- Address: 322 Ordsall Ln, Salford M5 3AN
Those wanting to venture a little bit out from the Manchester City Centre should consider a visit to Ordsall Hall.
Situated a stone’s throw from the Salford Quays, this huge former Tudor manor house dates back to at least 1177, when it was first mentioned in records.
Although some of the oldest parts that survive from its present hall were constructed in the 15th century.
Today, it is a welcoming and inviting museum that showcases the history of the hall, as well as the colourful characters that made it their home.
Through guided tours, you will be able to see a fabulous selection of period rooms, as well as exhibits that relate to archaeology, social history, architecture, textiles and costume.
Ordsall Hall also boasts immaculately landscaped gardens and a picturesque orchard which you are free to roam around, as well as a nice cafe onsite that offers a lovely selection of food and beverages.
6. John Rylands Library
- Address: 150 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3EH
With a collection that totals over 1.4 million books, manuscripts, archives, works of art and maps, the John Rylands Library is a very impressive institution.
Situated in Deansgate, in the heart of the city, it is one of the best free places to visit in Manchester.
The library is the brainchild of Enriqueta Rylands, who wanted to honour the life of her husband John Rylands, who passed away in 1888.
One of its main drawcards is its spectacular late Victorian neo-Gothic facade, which was designed by architect Basil Champneys. It took 10 years to build.
The museum is free to the public between 10 am and 5 pm on Wednesdays to Sundays and is notable for its iconic reading room that brings to mind the inside of a church.
It houses most of the Special Collections owned by Manchester University Library.
Which include illuminated manuscripts from medieval times as well as a Gutenberg Bible, which is one of the earliest examples of European printing.
7. Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens
- Address: 18 Stenner Ln, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2RQ
Undoubtedly one of the prettiest places to visit in Greater Manchester, the Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens makes a lovely change of scene from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
Situated in Didsbury, between the Stenner Woods and River Mersey, the park was named in honour of Fletcher Moss, a prominent Alderman.
It was donated to the city in 1915 and takes the form of a serene nature space that is part wildlife habitat and part botanical garden.
One of its main features is a lovely, south-facing rock garden that has a steep slope full of colourful plants and seasonal flowers.
This slope also has a number of trickling waterfalls that run down into a picturesque pond that is surrounded by marsh marigolds and royal ferns.
The gardens are an excellent family-friendly destination to relax and reconnect with nature.
They also encourage play with football and rugby pitches, as well as tennis courts and host a nice café and ice cream parlour.
8. Free themed tours with Manchester New Walks
- Address: Depends on where you go to
Not to be confused with the Free Walking tour of Manchester that was previously mentioned, Manchester New Walks are the official tour guides of Manchester.
Providing locals and visitors with one of the best free things to do in Manchester city centre, they offer over 100 local tours of what they describe as the greatest industrial city in the world.
Led by a group of fully trained and expert tour guides, New Manchester Walks tells the story of Manchester with passion and pride.
Some of the tours you can go on incorporate Britain’s first canals, as well as major points of historical interest in the development of cotton, industry and science.
It also showcases the life of the Pankhursts and the birth of the suffragette movement, as well as numerous sites linked with Alan Turing.
Additionally, they also highlight Victorian architecture and Pre-Raphaelite landmarks, as well as more modern monuments like Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium and a music-related tour of venues like the Hacienda.
If you are keen to discover more about the city, these tours provide you with an excellent opportunity to do so.
9. The Portico Library
- Address: 57 Mosley St, Manchester M2 3HY
Located between Market Street and St Peter Square, the Portico Library is one of Manchester’s hidden gems.
It’s an independant library that was designed in the early 19th century by Thomas Harrison.
It’s home to over 25,000 books (most of them are very old) and also houses a little café and exhibitions.
You can visit it for free from monday to friday (10 to 5PM). The back area is reserved to members so you won’t be able to go and see the books there but everything else is open to visitors.
The entrance is located right by the corner of the pub the Bank. You need to ring and someone will let you in.
Once you are in the building, walk up the stairs and you will find the entrance.
Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for more information. They will be more than happy to help you.
10. Manchester Art Gallery
- Address: Manchester Art Gallery, Mosley St, Manchester M2 3JL
Previously known as the Manchester City Art Gallery (much to the chagrin of United fans no doubt!), the recently renamed Manchester Art Gallery is without question one of the best art museums in the UK.
Presenting a collection that spans 600 years, it is one of the best free attractions in Manchester as well.
Located on Mosely Street, not far from The Portico Library, it was founded in 1823. So if you head there next year you should witness some major celebrations.
The library is publicly owned and spread across three connected buildings. Two of them were designed by Sir Charles Barry, who also redesigned the Palace of Westminster in London.
Showcasing what they describe as ‘brilliant art’, this museum has 94 galleries to explore.
Its collection of fine art includes over 2000 oil paintings, 3000 drawings and watercolours, 1000 prints, 250 sculptures and 90 miniatures.
It also owns more than 13,000 decorative art objects like glass, enamels, wallpapers, doll houses, arms and armoury, furniture and metalwork.
The oldest piece in its collection is a canopic jar from Egypt that dates back to 1100 BC.
11. Bike ride in Phillips Park
- Address: Stuart Street, Manchester M11 4DQ
Situated in the valley of the River Medlock, between Bury and Manchester, Philips Park is a delightful green space that provides a pleasant escape to nature.
Comprising a landscape of wild grassland, rich woodland, rolling hills and water on the boundary of Whitefield and Prestwich, it has been a popular destination to visit since the Victorian period.
While most people walked it back then, mountain biking is a popular activity now, with a designated cycling trail meandering its way through the park.
Providing a fast and convenient way to explore the surroundings, this trail takes you through its open spaces and woodland areas.
It changes variously from easy, short sections to more challenging parts. Should you tackle it, you will pass several scenic spots, most notably down by the River Irwell and the millponds.
The park also has a playground for little ones to enjoy, as well as plenty of places to rest or enjoy a picnic.
READ MORE: 24+ Fun Things to do in Manchester (for adults, couples & more!)
12. The Irwell Sculpture Trail
If you love art, but don’t want to be cooped up inside on a warm day, then consider the Irwell Sculpture Trail.
Winding along from Bacup to the Salford Quays, this greenspace and parkland trail features more than 70 outdoor artworks.
Made by some of the most talented local, national and international artists, this collection makes up the United Kingdom’s largest art scheme.
Dotted along a 30-mile footpath, it goes through Rossendale and up through the Pennies, in between its start and end point.
From above, the artwork forms the shape of a leaf and bud which unfurls into a double spiral mound that eventually leads you to a brick seating area. This is curved for extra aesthetic appeal.
Should you decide to tackle this trail, one of the works you will see includes a 15-foot white Ferro cement piece called ‘Arena’. Which was sculpted by Rita McBride, a New York artist.
The Willow Tree sculpture, which takes the form of a huge environmental maze that sprawls across a hillside via a series of tunnels, is well worth checking out too.
13. Salford Lads Club
- Address: Salford Lads’ Club, Coronation St, Salford M5 3SA
The Salford Lads’ Club is an institution in Manchester. Opened by Robert Baden-Powell in 1903, it was originally established as a boys club that offered opportunities for sports and recreational activities.
Over the years, the likes of Noel Gallagher, Morrisey, Tim Burgess, Allan Clarke and Graham Nash all attended there.
Now open to people of both sexes, the club is located in an iconic building that sits on the juncture of St. Ignatius Walk and Coronation Street (no, not that one!).
Some of the most popular activities you can take part in here include boxing, football, kickboxing, dance, table tennis and computer games. There is also an iconic gym here.
Many people also come here to visit The Smiths Room, which features lots of photos and memorabilia of the band.
They also visit to see the unique archives of photos, film reels, records and other relics that document the history of the club.
14. Canal Walk in Manchester
- Address: Paradise Wharf, Ducie Street, Manchester M1 2JN
Looking for some free things to do in Manchester for couples? This one is for you!
A significant part of Manchester’s history is based on its canals, so if you get the chance a great thing to do is take a walk along one of them.
The Canal River Trust maintains a fabulous 2.2 km linear walk that takes you from Paradise Wharf to the Piccadilly Basin.
Throughout a 35-minute amble, you will be able to familiarise yourself with a side of Manchester many visitors don’t see.
This includes the Ashton Canal, the Ancoats Lock and the New Islington Marina, which features some stunning boats. You will also get to see the Rochdale Canal and Lock 82.
Providing you with a lovely way to explore the locality and immerse yourself in the history of the area, you’ll want to bring your camera with you to capture all you see.
This trail ends not far from where it begins. So you should not have too much trouble getting back to your hotel or home.
READ MORE: 12 Best Canal Walks in Manchester (and nearby!)
15. Greater Manchester Police Museum
- Address: 57A Newton St, Manchester M1 1ET
Over on Newtown Street, within the Northern Quarter district, a visit to the Greater Manchester Police Museum has to be one of the best things to do in Manchester for free.
Previously a fully functioning police station until 1979, it has now been remodelled as a museum and archive centre that documents Greater Manchester’s police history.
Founded in 1981, this fascinating museum is funded by the Greater Manchester Police. Through its displays and exhibits, it conveys what life was like for police officers during Victorian times.
You will also get to see where some of Manchester’s toughest and most notorious criminals were charged and fingerprinted.
As well as checking out the cells that often housed up to twelve men at a time.
Additionally, it also showcases how times and police methods have changed over the years to meet the needs of modern society and even provides an important platform for engagement with the community.
16. Royal Exchange
- Address: Old Bank St, Manchester M2 7PE
Ideally located on Old Bank Street, the Royal Exchange is one of the most iconic buildings in the city but what most people don’t always realise is that it’s also one of the best free things to see in Manchester.
It was built in 1809 and served as a trade exchange (mainly for the cotton) until 1968.
Today, it’s home to a circular theatre where you can see plays as well as a café.
INTERESTING FACT: The Royal Exchange Theatre is the largest round theatre in the UK.
When you get to the entrance, feel free to just walk in and have a look around the building. You will see the theatre, you may also see the actors rehearsing.
Also, make sure to look up because there is still the board with the prices of cotton on the day the Royal Exchange closed (December 31st, 1968).
You do not need to book or pay anything to visit.
17. Discovering the most famous filming locations in Manchester
If you are looking for some free things to do in Manchester Piccadilly area, this one is for you.
Like most big cities around the world, Manchester has its fair share of locations that have appeared on TV or in film. So why not take the opportunity to check some of them out?
Over the years, buildings within the city’s Northern Quarter have been used as locations for both London and New York-based storylines.
This includes shows like The Crown, Captain America, Peaky Blinders, Sherlock Homes, Queer As Folk, It’s A Sin and Morbius. All of which can be seen on The Locationist Tour.
The tour lasts for 2 hours and 30 minutes and is a must for anyone who loves TV and film.
It starts at Manchester Piccadilly Train Station and takes you to various places including Dale Street, Paton Street, Mangle Street and Lever Street.
During the tour, the guide points out several good places to eat and drink, as well as notable boutique shops to visit.
18. Discovering the street art in Northern Quarter
- Address: Northern Quarter, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M4 1PW
Manchester, and in particular, the Northern Quarter, is renowned for its incredible street art. Which adorns many public and residential buildings.
Of all the best free stuff to do in Manchester, a walking tour of these displays is very worthwhile. Not only does it get you out into the fresh air, but it also showcases some truly, wonderful imagery.
Run by Hayley Flynn, the multi-award-winning, Skyliner Street Art Tour is a family-friendly experience that conveys the development of the Northern Quarter.
During it, you will learn more about some of the main protagonists behind the most prominent street art that features in the area.
As well as the main iconic sights, the tour will also take you to some of the less-known heritage sites.
Featuring in The Telegraph’s list of ‘Incredible Street Art Tours’ around the world, this Skyliner tour provides you with an excellent opportunity to get to know one of Manchester’s most historic districts.
19. Manchester Central Library
- Address: St Peter’s Square, Manchester M2 5PD
Located just a stone’s throw from the Manchester Art Gallery and facing St Peter’s Square, the Manchester Central Library is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks.
Serving as the headquarters of the city’s information and library services, this striking structure was designed by E. Vincent Harris. It is loosely based on the Pantheon in Rome and features a rotunda domed facade with portico columns.
Opened in 1934, after a four-year construction period, the building is grade II* listed and one of the most photographed in the city.
It is Britain’s second-largest public lending library after the Library of Birmingham.
In 2014, after four years of closure and a £40 million redesign that tackled major problems like asbestos, the museum reopened.
Today it houses over four million printed books and manuscripts, as well as 850,000 electronic journals and books.
Some of its most notable collections include over 30 books that were published before the year 1500 – which are collectively referred to as ‘incunabula’.
It also houses an extensive collection of works by Elizabeth Gaskell – one of Manchester’s most acclaimed writers.
20. Manchester Cathedral
- Address: Victoria St, Manchester M3 1SX
Just like the nearby National Football Museum might be considered a place of worship for some, so is the Manchester Cathedral.
Once known as the ‘Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Mary, St Denys and St George’ – which is frankly a bit of a mouthful.
The roots of the cathedral go back to 1421 when Henry V signed a royal charter which allowed for a collegiate church to be built.
It wasn’t until a new Manchester diocese was created in 1847 that it became a fully-fledged cathedral.
Nestled near the centre of the Medieval Quarter, close to Chetham’s Library and Chetham’s School of Music, the church is open every day of the week to everyone, with free admission.
Inside, its decor is breathtaking. Featuring thirty 16th-century misericords, ten bells and two angel mistrals, it also has several stained glass windows as well as a fantastic collection of statues and other ornate furnishings.
Even if it is not a place of worship for you, the cathedral is well worth visiting.
21. People’s History Museum
- Address: Left Bank, Manchester M3 3ER
When it comes to free activities in Manchester, the People’s History Museum ranks up there as one of the best of them.
Located on the Left Bank, it is better known as the national museum of democracy.
Relating the story of how Manchester and wider Britain have pushed the envelope for democracy over time, as well as its future plans for doing so.
The museum acts as the national centre in the UK for the collection, conservation, study and interpretation of materials that highlight the history and lives of the working class.
It is a terrific place to come if you want to find out more, be inspired or engage in causes like equality, social justice, cooperation, equality and freedom and a fairer society for everyone.
In addition to being a museum, PHM is a charity that assists underprivileged people. While it is free to check out, a donation of £5 from visitors is encouraged.
22. The Laughięnda Comedy Club
- Address: Lions Den, 253 Deansgate Mews, Manchester M3 4EN
Need a laugh? Well, one of the best places to go then is The Laughięnda Comedy Club.
Not only is this comedy club award-winning, but it is also free! So you’ll want to head on over to the Lions Den Bar in Deansgate every Thursday to check it out.
Showcasing the cream of the northwest’s comedic talents, as well as seasoned veterans who’ll have you crying with laughter in no time at all, this club has only been running for just over a year.
But it has already forged a reputation for offering one of the best nights out in Manchester.
Some of the comedians who have graced its stage include Tony Carroll, Simon Wozniak, Danny McLoughlin and Dan Tiernan, who recently won the BBC New Comedy Award and was named British Comedian Of The Year too!
Shows run from 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm and can only be watched by people over the age of 18.
23. Watch a show at BBC Salford
- Address: Dock 10 Studios, White, Salford M50 2HT
Ever wanted to be on TV?
Whilst BBC Salford won’t promise you a lead role in the next series of a hit TV show, what they can offer you is the opportunity to be in the audience for one of them. (Which might lead you to be on TV when they pan to the audience!)
Priding itself on being the largest provider of free tickets for TV and radio in the country, BBC Salford works on thousands of TV and radio shows every year. Many of which require audiences for good effect.
One of the most popular shows you can attend is An Enchanting Advent with the BBC Philharmonic.
However, if you can’t wait until December there are numerous other shows you can attend. Some of these are filmed live and enable you to see your favourite celebrities right in the flesh!
As free days out in Manchester go, this one is very hard to beat.
24. Exploring the markets
Manchester is known for its powerhouse football teams, incredible museums, awesome music scene and wonderful architecture.
All of which quite rightly are huge drawcards to the city. However, something that often gets overlooked is its fabulous collection of markets.
Throughout the city, there are a plethora of fantastic markets to browse around.
From the Northern Quarter Makers Market and the Arndale Market to The Piccadilly Gardens Street Food Market and Leemo’s textiles on Longsight Markets, they offer everything you could possibly be looking for.
Books, records, clothes, jewellery, knick-knacks, food and plants are all available here.
So the best thing to do is make your way over to any of them that take your fancy and explore until your heart’s content.
If you are a foodie, you should also consider going to one of the food markets in Manchester such as the Mackie Mayor or Freight Island.
If you happen to be visiting the city in December, be sure to check out the Manchester Christmas Market in Albert Square and the King Street Christmas market.
25. Walking around Salford Quays
- Address: Manchester M50 3AZ
Situated near the end of the Manchester Ship Canal, the Salford Quays were previously the site of the Manchester Docks.
However, after it closed in 1982, it became the site of one of the United Kingdom’s earliest and biggest urban regeneration projects.
Subsequently, the Quays have turned into an exceptional waterfront destination which houses history, culture, heritage, sport and shopping within an area of just one square mile.
Some of its major landmarks include The Lowry Theatre, which was designed by Michael Wilford, as well as the Imperial War Museum, MediaCityUK and Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United Football Club.
In addition, The Quayside Mall is an excellent destination for a bit of retail therapy, with the likes of Gap, Cadbury and Marks & Spencer all having prominent stores there.
Both within and outside the mall there are several restaurants, bars, cafes and fast food chains. You’ll also find a multi-screen cinema as well as riverboat cruises available.
26. Manchester Museum
Located on Oxford Road, Manchester Museum is by far one of the best free museums in Manchester.
It was recently entirely renovated and reopened in 2023.
You can easily get there on foot from the city centre and do not need to book (unless you want to see one of the limited exhibitions). Entrance is free but as usual, donations are always welcome.
They have over 4.5 million objects and various collections including butterflies, animals, dinosaurs and artefacts.
The building itself is also stunning and such a nice setting for a museum.
It’s a great place for a family day out but also to visit as a couple or even by yourself.
27. Blue Peter Garden
Located in Media City, this vibrant garden is inspired by the renowned BBC show that has been entertaining children all over Britain for generations.
This beautiful outdoor space provides endless fun for both kids and adults.
Whether it’s exploring the various play areas or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll, Blue Peter Garden has something for everyone. And best of all, entry is free!
Getting there is easy too; you can hop on the tram and get off at Media City or alternatively drive there (you’ll need to pay for car parking though).
Once you’re in the garden, there are plenty of interesting sights to explore.
You’ll find an array of sculptures and murals inspired by the show and its past presenters, from their handprints and footprints to the golden badge (we like to think of it as our mini BBC Blue Peter walk of fame in Manchester).
You’ll also find a stunning bronze statue of dog Petra, one of the show’s most beloved characters.
While it is quite small, it’s still a nice place to explore and one of the best free activities in Manchester.
28. The Donkey Sanctuary
- Address: Green Fold, Abbey Hey, Manchester M18 8RJ
The Donkey Sanctuary is a charity which looks after donkeys and mules in the UK. They have several locations across the country including one in Manchester.
Located in Abbey Hey, near Gorton, it’s free to visit making it an ideal place to take the kids for a fun-filled day out.
Kids will love seeing their adorable animals and all of the activities that are available.
You can take a tour around the sanctuary, see the donkeys and enjoy some time outdoors (they have seven acres of land).
The Donkey Sanctuary is open to the public every saturday and on the first sunday of the month.
It is completely free to visit however, you need to pre-book a ticket online.
Also, they are dog-friendly so you can bring your pooch if you want.
29. Imperial War Museum North
- Address: Trafford Wharf Rd, Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester M17 1TZ
Located in Trafford Park, right by the Manchester Ship Canal, the Imperial War Museum North is one of the most interesting and unique museums in Manchester.
The museum is free to enter. You can book your ticket online or just show up directly.
You don’t have to book in advance but if you are visiting on a busy day, it’s always better to book to be sure you can visit.
The IWM North is one of the five branches of the Imperial War Museum North which includes the Churchill War Rooms, IWM London, HMS Belfast and IWM Duxford.
Imperial War Museum North features interactive displays and activities about how the war affected Britain.
Each museum has its own focus and as you can expect, this one is about the impact of the war in Northern England.
The museum was built on a bombsite. You may not know this but Trafford Park was one of the main targets during the Manchester Blitz so the location made sense.
It takes a couple of hours to visit the museum and is the perfect thing to do on a rainy day if you love history.
30. HOME
- Address: 2 Tony Wilson Pl, Manchester M15 4FN
HOME is a multi-arts centre based in Deansgate, near the tram stop and station.
Theatre, art and cinema come together under one roof at this rather unique venue.
They showcase all kinds of performances from emerging artists as well as some more established ones.
But the part that is free to visit is the art gallery. Here you will find contemporary art exhibitions with pieces from all around the world but with a focus on local and emerging artists which is very nice.
The exhibitions also change very regularly so that’s a place you can visit more than once and you will always find new things.
The cinema and theatre are also amazing and while they are not free, they are still a cheap activity in Manchester that are worth considering.
Finally, you will find a cafe and restaurant where you can grab food.
31. Live Music at Albert’s Schloss
Albert’s Schloss is one of the most famous bars in Manchester. Located on Peter Street, it serves amazing cocktails, has a wide selection of beer and has live music on very often.
If you are visiting on a Friday or Saturday and want to go listen to some nice live music in Manchester for free, Albert’s Schloss is the place for you.
It’s free to enter but obviously since it’s a bar you’re kind of expected to get a drink.
The only thing you need to know is while there isn’t an official dress code, things like trainers or joggers won’t be allowed.
32. Salford Museum and Art Gallery
Salford Museum and Art Gallery is one of Manchester’s best kept secrets.
It may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about free activities in Manchester but it is definitely worth a visit if you want to explore some culture for free.
The museum houses amazing artworks, artefacts and photos about Salford.
Here you can truly learn more about the history of Salford but also discover more about Victorian art and architecture.
There are three galleries:
- Victorian Gallery
- Pilkington’s Ceramic Collection
- By Hand Gallery
You will discover what life was like in the 19th century in Salford and can even walk in an old Victorian street (there is a reconstruction).
There are also talks from time to time during which you learn about life during Victorian times. For example, how people used to wash their clothes…
The entrance is entirely free but you may need to pay for carpark.
The cafe is also very nice and reasonably priced.
33. Portland Basin Museum
- Address: Portland Pl, Ashton-under-Lyne OL7 0QA
If you are interested in discovering how people lived and worked during the industrial revolution and at the beginning of the 20th century, then Portland Basin Museum is a must-see.
It’s set in the Ashton Canal Warehouse in Ashton-under-Lyne which used to be a cotton mill.
The highlight of the museum is the 1920s street. It’s a recreation of how life used to be at the time, with shops, streets and homes.
It’s quite fun to walk in the street and it really gives you a good idea of what life was back then.
It’s all so real, you even have a school with desks, chairs, shelves with books and more.
Another cool feature is the grocery shop which once again, show you exactly how it was back in the day.
There are two floors of exhibitions and interactive displays to explore.
Best of all? It’s entirely free! Even the carpark is free, making it the ideal free day out in Greater Manchester.
34. Jazz live music at Matt and Phred’s
- Address: 64 Tib St, Manchester M4 1LW
Located in the Northern Quarter, Matt and Phred’s is an iconic jazz club.
The bar features some of the best live music in Manchester almost every night of the week from Monday to Sunday and it’s free entry!
It’s also a cool and quirky bar, such a nice place to get a drink.
If you are interested in the free live music events, you just need to show up in the evening but you can also consult their website to see the full gig list.
35. Runway Visitor Park
- Address: Runway Visitor Park, Sunbank Ln, Altrincham WA15 8XQ
Looking for a unique free attraction in Manchester? That’s the one!
As you probably know, Manchester Airport is one of the busiest airports in the UK and if you love airplanes, then you will be delighted to know that you can go and look at the runway!
The Runway Visitor Park is a 9,000sqm park located by the airport.
Here you will find loads of activities for adults and kids.
And of course, you will get unbeatable views on the runway of Manchester Airport meaning that you can see amazing airplanes such as the Airbus A380 or the Boeing 787.
You can also find 5 retired aircrafts including a Concorde, Avro RJX, RAF Nimrod, Trident and Monarch DC10.
If you’d like to get even more airplane experiences, the Fly360 Flight Simulator is also a great option (and it’s only £6).
Another cool thing to do is to walk through the Concorde Hangar where you can actually see the world’s most famous airplane, the Concorde.
36. Bolton Museum, Aquarium and Archive
Located in Bolton, this is Greater Manchester’s only public aquarium and it’s free!
You can find it in the Central Library and Museum building and can easy get there by car or with public transport.
There is a free car park just across the road as well as loads of restaurants nearby if you need.
It opened in 1947 and has over 70 varieties of fish from all over the world.
The museum also has some interesting artefacts from the Egyptian and Greek cultures (they even have a mummy!) as well as a natural history part.
The aquarium is definitely worth a visit, especially if you are travelling with kids as they will love it!
37. Bury Art Museum and Sculpture Centre
Bury Art Museum and Sculpture Centre is another great free attraction in Greater Manchester.
It’s open from Tuesday to Saturday.
The museum is located in the town centre of Bury and showcases artworks from local artists as well as international ones.
It has a focus on local history and culture, making a great place if you want to learn more about North Manchester.
They also organise all sorts of events such as art classes, workshops or talks about the history of art in Bury.
The museum is located on Moss Street which is very close to the tram and bus stop, making it easy to get there with public transport.
You can also get there by car but will need to park in one of the multi-storey or pay and display carparks in Bury.
38. Gorton Monastery
Located in Gorton, the Monastery is one of the most beautiful landmarks in Manchester.
It used to be called The Church and Friary of St Francis and was built in the 19th century.
It was designed by a famous Victorian architect, Edward Welby Pugin, in a Gothic Revival style.
The Monastery is open every day except Friday and Saturday. It’s a great place to visit and you will be surprised by how pretty it is. The main room is very big, with high ceiling and stunning columns but the true gem is the courtyard garden and the cloisters.
It also hosts a lot of events such as glow yoga, meditation and more.
The entry to Gorton Monastery is free but that’s not all. There is also a large free car park at the front.
39. Mamucium
Mamucium is a Roman fort located in Castlefield in the city centre.
The ruins are from around AD 79-80 and were once part of a fort built by the Romans, who were the first people to settle in Manchester.
FUN FACT: Mamucium, from which the name Manchester comes from, means ‘breast shaped hill’.
The fort is located near the confluence of River Medlock and River Irwell.
This was, at the time, a strategic location to protect the more important Roman forts in Northern England, York and Chester.
Today, you can visit the ruins of the fort and learn more about Manchester’s history at the Urban Heritage Park of Castlefield.
As well as the ruins of the fort, you will also find a reconstruction of a gatehouse and the remains of the original Roman roadway.
40. Clayton Hall Living History Museum
Clayton Hall Living History Museum is one of the most unique museums in Greater Manchester.
It’s located in Clayton, near the Etihad Stadium. and it dates back to the 15th century!
It’s the only moated manor house left in Manchester and an excellent place to visit if you’d like to discover more about what life was during the Victorian times.
It’s a stunning Grade II Listed building with 6 Victorian rooms.
Not only will you get to discover the manor itself but you will also find a lot of vintage sewing machines and old clothes.
There are also a lot of activities you can do there, making it an excellent place to visit with kids.
The museum is open on the first and third Saturdays of the month between March and November. The entry is free.
41. Salsa and Bachata at Revolucion de Cuba
If you fancy learning how to dance for free, then you are in for a treat with this one!
Every Wednesday, Rev de Cuba in Deansgate offers free salsa and bachata lessons. It starts at 7PM with 1 hour of salsa class, then at 8PM you have one hour of bachata class and from 9PM it’s the social dancing.
These are beginner classes so don’t worry if you’ve never tried salsa before, they will start from the beginning.
The instructors, Diego and Ola, are absolutely fantastic. They explain everything so well so you don’t feel stressed or anything.
It’s also important to note that you do not need a partner so even if you are on your own, go for it!
The classes are in the room downstairs, you can find the stairs at the entrance on your right.
Now that you know everything about the best places to visit in Manchester for free, it’s time to go and explore! Have fun!
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