People's History Museum

The People's History Museum is the only museum dedicated to the working people of Britain and the story of how they organised to change society, improving life for future generations.

The main galleries look at people's lives at work, home and leisure over the last 200 years. What was the Peterloo Massacre of 1819? Who were the Chartists? What were working conditions like in the cotton industry? Can you imagine not being able to vote? Why did workers join trade unions? Find out about the Co-operative movement. What did ordinary people do in their free time?

"Play your part" is a set of interactive displays, developed especially with families in mind, situated throughout the main galleries. Have fun together creating your own badge, shopping at a 1930s Co-op counter, performing your own Punch & Judy show, co-operating to build an arch, recording your opinions, producing a fuzzy felt banner and much more.

In addition there is a changing exhibitions programme. These allow visitors to explore related histories, see different objects from the collection and on loan or reflect on contemporary issues. There are usually two exhibitions a year, on display for six months at a time.

The museum also has one of the largest collections of historic, labour movement banners in the world. The banners are conserved in the Textile Conservation Studio and a selection are always on display to the public in the museum.

Educational and Group Visits

The People's History Museum is delighted to welcome all groups whatever their age. We offer hands on activity sessions for school such as banner making workshops, and talks and tours for older pupils, students or adult groups.

We have six living history characters which help to bring some of the stories in the museum to life, these can be booked for a session within the museum or as an outreach project. Please talk to a member of the Education team for more information.

Additional Information:

• Shop and mail order service
• Fair Trade coffee vending machine
• Visitors encouraged to bring own food
• Varied programme of temporary exhibitions
• Corporate Hospitality
• Disabled access to all areas