Free Manchester Attractions for Newcomers

If you have recently moved to Manchester and the only two addresses you know are your new one, and the one of your man and van company then perhaps you want to get to know the city. If however you want to do this without having to fork out the cash, then here is a list of some of the most popular, must-see free sights around the city.

  • The Manchester MuseumManchester Museum

The city’s museum is free to tour, and a great place to learn many things. Perhaps one of the main features of the Manchester Museum is the life sized T-Rex skeleton, affectionately known as Stan.  The Museum of Manchester is generally quiet, and allows for exploration of its many halls and exhibitions without the usual commotion expected at such venues.

  • The National Football Museum

Manchester is hoping to be crowned the UK’s City of Football, and if you are fan of the beautiful game or simply want to find out what all the football fuss is about, then a trip to the National Football Museum is a must. There one can see some of the most incredible and even odd examples of football memorabilia ever to be put on display. The museum is also the only official place in the world to see Robbie Savage’s real pony tail.

  • The John Rylands Library

Usually, a much quieter place than Manchester Central Library (which is also worth visiting) is the John Rylands Library in Deansgate. The place is a magnificent Gothic building dating back to the Victorian era. The place is nestled between numerous bars, shops and restaurants so one can enjoy culture as well as entertainment and shopping. The turrets and stained glass windows of the Gothic building are distinctive architectural features definitely worth seeing, even if not interested in books.

  • The Imperial War Museum (IWM) North

Even if you are not interested military history and wartime events, the Imperial War Museum North can offer you something else – a magnificent panoramic view of the city. The museum features a viewing platform overlooking Salford and Trafford. Mind you the platform will be useful in getting your bearings around the city as a newcomer. From the platform, you get a clear view of Manchester United’s football ground, as well as a view of the real Coronation Street. Visiting the museum is free, though getting on the platform will cost you quid and a half (great place to visit especially if you had to dig deep in your pockets to pay the man and van company that relocated you).

  • Oxford Street Marketplaces

Getting to know the local street markets is a great way to get to know the city itself. Immerse yourself in local custom and check out some of the traditional products and goods sold on the many street markets which gather regularly throughout the city. Oxford Street will be a good place to start your newcomers’ marketplace tour. At markets across Manchester, you can find anything from vintage clothing to local delicacies.