We tried out the mind-bending Museum of Illusions that's opened in an unlikely Manchester high street setting

The busy shopping street is welcoming its first ever tourist attraction – the Museum of Illusions, which features a series of optical illusions and mind-bending activities suitable for all ages.

Opening on Friday 27 September, this is the first of its kind in the UK but one of 50 globally. With locations in 25 different countries, the Museum of Illusions describes itself as one of the fastest growing private museum chains in the world.

Steven Buchan, general manager at Museum of Illusions, said: “Manchester is a city known for its innovation and creativity, and we’re thrilled to bring the Museum of Illusions to such a dynamic location.

“Our goal is to offer a space where visitors of all ages can explore the wonders of perception, engage with immersive exhibits, and experience the joy of being delightfully tricked by the eye. We can’t wait to welcome locals and visitors alike to experience the magic for themselves.”

We were invited to the Museum of Illusions for a sneak peek ahead of Friday’s opening. Here is a taster of what to expect.

What to expect

At first, it’s hard to get your head around a museum located on a busy high street where Sports Direct used to be, but it is fitting considering that inside it contains around 65 different exhibits designed to play with your mind.

There are a wide range of different activities. Some are quite simple, aimed at testing your perception of size, colour, depth, perspective and more. Each illusion includes a description on how it works and the science behind it, aimed at making the experience as educational as possible.

But there are others that require a bit more physical activity – and these were some of our favourites. We pretended to hang out of windows, levitate and and even face-swap. There’s a room that makes you look tiny or giant, depending on where you stand, and another one that makes it look like you're leaning forward, Smooth Criminal-style. And I don’t want to give it away, but the vortex tunnel is one to be careful of if you suffer with motion sickness.

There are also several exhibits with a distinctly Manchester theme, including the first ‘following eyes’ display featuring Manchester mathematician Alan Turning and a tram-inspired illusion called the Reversed Room.

It probably goes without saying, but there are so many excellent photo opportunities here as well – whether your simply making memories with the family or looking for content for your social media pages.

How to get tickets

Walk-ins are accepted but visitors are encouraged to book in advance online, via the Museum of Illusions website. Walk-in and online booking do differ, however. The prices are as follows:

• Adult (15+) - (pre-booked) £21.00 / (walk-in) £23.00
• Child (5-14) - £17.50 / £19.50
• 4 and under - Free
• Senior (+65) - £17.50 / £19.50
• Student - £17.50 / £19.50
• Blue light card holders - £17.50 / £19.50