Ok, pulling this shortlist together was hard. And that’s because there are so many iconic cultural institutions here in Manchester. We’re known for making history across all sectors and industries, but our arts and culture offer is up there as one of the best in the world.
Take a look at some of our favourite places and exhibitions across the city centre that you can explore right now.
Manchester Art Gallery
This multi award-winning venue attracts flocks of visitors from all over the world every year (when restrictions allow!) to explore its fine selection of art which includes photography, contemporary work, design and decorative art, as well as some historically significant collections from the Pre-Raphaelites and notable 19th century British painters.
One of their current must-see temporary exhibitions is Grayson’s Art Club, a collection of pieces created by celebrities and the general public in response to lockdown and curated by famous artist Grayson Perry. You can book tickets for the exhibition here and the gallery is open from Weds-Sun, 10am-5pm, with Grayson’s exhibition running until September.
If you’re feeling arty yourself, you can upload your own creations to your social channels and tag #MAGARTCLUB to feature on the digital screens in the exhibition!
The Whitworth
Located in the beautiful Whitworth Park on the outskirts of the city and part of the University of Manchester, The Whitworth houses over 55,000 works of art, textiles and wallpaper. It was founded in 1889 in memory of the industrialist Sir Joseph Whitworth for ‘the perpetual gratification of the people of Manchester’ and continues this mission today in new contexts. The space features gallery spaces, a study centre and learning studio, as well as a lovely café and communal gardens where outdoor exhibitions are featured. Open Weds-Sun, 10am-5pm www.whitworth.manchester.ac.uk
Manchester Craft & Design Centre
Tucked away in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter in a stunning Victorian building (once the home of the city’s retail fish market) is the Manchester Craft & Design Centre. Home to artists, designers and makers from all over the North West, the centre promotes public awareness and appreciation of arts and crafts. Browse the diverse array of studios before enjoying a coffee and some homemade cake in Oak Street Café. Open Monday – Saturday, 10am – 5.30pm, the centre is just a 5 minute walk from Broadside. www.craftanddesign.com
Royal Exchange Theatre
Housed in a stunning Grade 2 listed building in the heart of the city, just off St Ann’s Square, The Royal Exchange theatre is the hub of theatre life in Manchester.
Having reopened their doors on June 23rd, it’s now full steam ahead for a full programme of exciting events to welcome visitors back. Check out their full reopening programme and book your tickets here: www.royalexchange.co.uk/reopening-programme-2021
The John Ryland’s Library
Arguably the most beautiful building in the whole of the city, John Ryland’s is a world-renowned research institute and library opened on New Year’s Day 1900. Part of the University of Manchester, the library houses the majority of the University’s Special Collections – the third largest academic library in the United Kingdom.
Take a tour of this incredible space and learn all about its fascinating history. Their current exhibitions include one on Manchester’s Guardian newspaper. Open Thursday to Saturday, 10am-12pm and 1.30-4pm. www.library.manchester.ac.uk/rylands
Did we miss one of your favourite arts and culture spots? Let us know over on Instagram.