People's History Museum and its collection

People's History Museum
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The People's History Museum, located in Manchester, England, serves as the United Kingdom's national hub for the collection, preservation, interpretation, and study of materials related to the history of the working class in the UK. The museum is housed in a Grade II listed former hydraulic pumping station, a testament to the city's industrial past. The museum's collections offer a comprehensive look into the lives, struggles, and achievements of the working class over the past two centuries.

Exhibits and Themes at the People's History Museum

The People's History Museum provides a detailed narrative of workers' rights and democracy in Great Britain, offering insights into the lives of people at home, work, and leisure over the last 200 years. The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including popular radicalism, the Peterloo Massacre, 19th-century trade unionism, the women's suffrage movement, and the cooperative movement, among others.

Political Material Collection at the People's History Museum

The People's History Museum boasts one of the largest collections of political material in Britain, with items dating back to the early 19th century. The museum's collection includes a vast array of objects related to the right to vote, making it a significant resource for understanding the evolution of democracy in the UK. The collection includes 2,000 posters focused on elections and political campaigns, 300 political cartoons, 7,000 trade union badges and tokens, as well as 95,000 photographs.

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ITMuseo di Storia del Popolo

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Art & Design Art & Design Industrial heritage Ethnology Historic house

People's History Museum
Left Bank Spinningfields
M3 3ER Manchester

Visitor information People's History Museum

Opening hours

Monday
10:00 – 17:00
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday
10:00 – 17:00
Thursday
10:00 – 17:00
Friday
10:00 – 17:00
Saturday
10:00 – 17:00
Sunday
10:00 – 17:00

Closed: 24, 25, 26 December & 1 January.

Admission

0+Free

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible
Museum shop
Coffee
Restaurant

Location & Map

Left Bank Spinningfields, Manchester

Discover all museums in Manchester

People's History Museum Reviews

People's History Museum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The People's History Museum in Manchester, England, offers visitors an engaging exploration of the development of democracy and workers' rights in Britain. Many reviewers appreciate the museum's focus on social and political history, showcasing the struggles and achievements of ordinary people. The exhibits are well-curated, interactive, and informative, covering topics from the industrial revolution to modern-day activism.

    Visitors often highlight the museum's approachable presentation of complex historical events and movements. The timeline of democratic progress and the displays of protest banners are frequently mentioned as standout features. The museum's commitment to inclusivity and representation of diverse voices is also praised.

    However, some visitors note that certain areas of the museum can feel a bit text-heavy, which might be challenging for younger visitors or those preferring more visual learning experiences. A few reviewers mention that some exhibits could benefit from updates or more in-depth information on certain topics.

    The museum's location in a restored Edwardian pump house adds to its charm, though a small number of visitors find the layout slightly confusing. The on-site cafe receives mixed reviews, with some enjoying it and others finding it average.

    Overall, the People's History Museum is generally well-received for its educational value, thought-provoking content, and its role in preserving and presenting an often overlooked aspect of British history. It's particularly recommended for those interested in social and political history, as well as for school groups and families looking for an educational experience.

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  • Aggregated rating

    This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.

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