Manchester is brim-full of interesting places to see and things to do - but with the cost of living crisis showing no sign of abating many people are looking to enjoy themselves while also giving the wallet something of a break.
Fortunately that is not a problem in our city either, with lots of Manchester’s biggest attractions allowing visitors in for free.
We’ve been taking a look at some of the most popular places to go without having to hand over an entry fee. And while the latest visitor figures for Manchester’s tourist attractions are only from 2019 and therefore pre-date the Covid-19 pandemic, we think the list still contains some excellent choices for a day out that won’t break the bank.
So whether you want to explore the richness of the world of arts and culture with a tour around a museum or art gallery, enjoy an interactive hands-on day out with the family or think about more recent and modern history, here are nine suggestions for free things to do in Manchester.
1. 9 great free attractions to visit in Manchester
Manchester Museum is one of the great places you can visit for free in the city and has just reopened following a massive revamp. Photo: Manchester Museum Photo: Manchester Museum
2. Manchester Art Gallery
Manchester Art Gallery has more than 46,000 items of fine art, decorative art and costumes in its collection and is particularly known for its pre-Raphaelite paintings. It also has exhibitions on topics including climate change and the history of hot drinks. Photo: Marketing Manchester Photo: Marketing Manchester
3. Science and Industry Museum
At the Science and Industry Museum you can take a journey through 250 years of scientific and technological innovation from the Industrial Revolution through to computing. It’s free but you need to book and there is some refurbishment work going on at the moment so some exhibitions are closed. (Credit: Sofia Fedeczko) Photo: Sofia Fedeczko
4. Imperial War Museum North
The Imperial War Museum North is located at Salford Quays and explores the impact of conflict on people from the First World War to the present day. Attractions including the sculpture of cascading poppies. Entry is free but booking is recommended. Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images Photo: Getty Images