The best art galleries in Manchester
- Written by Thom Bamford
- Last updated 3 months ago
- Art & Design, City of Manchester, Cornerstone, Featured
Discover the Best Art Galleries in Manchester with this handy list.
Manchester has long been a hotspot of culture and creativity, and its art galleries reflect this incredible heritage.
Steeped in history and filled with diverse collections, the city’s art spaces provide something for every art lover.
From classical masters to cutting-edge contemporary work, Manchester’s art galleries offer a fascinating window into the past and present of artistic expression.
Manchester’s role in the art world stretches back to 1857, when the city hosted the Art Treasures of Great Britain exhibition.
This monumental event, held in Old Trafford, was the largest art exhibition ever staged in the UK—and quite possibly the world—with over 16,000 artworks on display.
Fast forward to today, and Manchester’s art galleries continue to play a crucial role in the city’s cultural landscape.
Let’s explore some of the must-visit galleries that make Manchester a thriving hub for both local and international art.
Manchester Art Gallery
Located on Mosley Street, Manchester Art Gallery is one of the city’s cultural jewels.
Founded in 1823, it boasts an extensive collection that spans centuries, including Italian Renaissance pieces and works by Flemish masters.
However, the gallery is best known for its impressive array of Pre-Raphaelite paintings.
A standout feature is The Manchester Murals by Ford Madox Brown, which depict key moments in the city’s history.
More recently, the Galleries have acquired work by contemporary British, European, African, American and Asian artists – a reflection of the increasing internationalism of the art world and the city itself.
Address: Mosley St, Manchester M2 3JL
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
Contemporary Six Gallery
Contemporary Six is a leading independent art gallery located in the heart of the city centre of Manchester — opposite the beautiful Town Hall.
Established in 2010, the gallery is known for offering a warm and friendly welcome to art enthusiasts, collectors, and new visitors and explorers to the city.
You can enjoy original works of quality and substance by emerging and internationally acclaimed artists, all available to buy, whatever your budget.
Specialising in original paintings — landscapes, portraits, and abstracts — handmade prints, and sculptures and ceramics, Contemporary Six boasts a variety in artworks.
Address: 37 Princess St, Manchester M2 4FN
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
The Whitworth
For those interested in modern art and textile history, The Whitworth is a must-visit.
Located nearthe peaceful Whitworth Park, this gallery offers works by modern masters like Picasso and van Gogh.
With a mission to use art for social change, The Whitworth offers thought-provoking exhibitions and stunning outdoor installations.
Address: Oxford Rd, Manchester M15 6ER
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
HOME
Opened in 2015, Home is a dynamic space for contemporary art. It hosts both local and international artists and is home to the biennial Manchester Open Exhibition, showcasing works by artists from across Greater Manchester.
With an eclectic mix of theatre, film, and community events, Home is a true cultural hub.
Address: 2 Tony Wilson Pl, Manchester M15 4FN
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
Castlefield Gallery
Nestled in the historic Castlefield area, Castlefield Gallery has been a pioneer in supporting emerging and mid-career artists since its founding in 1984.
It offers a platform for contemporary art that pushes the boundaries of modern creativity, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in groundbreaking work.
Address: 2 Hewitt St, Greater, Manchester M15 4GB
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
esea contemporary
Formerly known as the Centre for Chinese Contemporary Art, esea contemporary offers a unique platform for East and Southeast Asian artists.
The gallery fosters dialogue between Eastern and Western cultures and showcases thought-provoking works that explore global cultural and social issues.
Address: 13 Thomas St, Manchester M4 1EU
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
Smolensky Gallery
If you prefer a more intimate setting, Smolensky Gallery is a hidden gem.
Specialising in contemporary British and international artists, this gallery keeps things fresh with rotating exhibitions, offering a wide array of painting, sculpture, and installation art.
Address: Building 21, 23 Quay St, Manchester M3 4AE
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
The Lowry (Salford Quays)
Technically located in nearby Salford, The Lowry is dedicated to the works of L.S. Lowry, renowned for his “matchstick” depictions of industrial Northern England.
This gallery is essential for understanding the rich industrial heritage that shaped both Manchester and Salford.
Essential viewing for all. They also put on amazing exhibitions too, like Queens: The Exhibition, which has been a huge success.
Address: Pier, 8 The Quays, Salford, Manchester M50 3AZ
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
Manchester Craft and Design Centre
For a hands-on experience, visit the Manchester Craft and Design Centre.
Here, you can meet artists, watch them create unique handmade products, and browse ceramics, textiles, jewellery, and more.
It’s a great spot to shop for locally made crafts.
Address: 17 Oak St, Manchester M4 5JD
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
Generation Gallery
Established in 2004, Generation Gallery is located in the heart of Manchester and specialises in original and limited-edition artwork.
With works by renowned contemporary artists like JJ Adams, this gallery is perfect for both collectors and first-time buyers.
Address: New York St, Manchester M1 4HN
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
Z-Arts
Focused on creativity for young people, Z-Arts offers an extensive array of theatre shows, art classes, and outreach programs aimed at inspiring the next generation.
It’s the perfect space for families interested in engaging with the arts.
Address: Z-arts, 335 Stretford Rd, Hulme, Manchester M15 5ZA
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
Islington Mill
Islington Mill is a vibrant creative center set within a historic cotton mill.
It has become a dynamic space for artists and entrepreneurs, housing more than 100 creatives and 50 independent ventures.
The mill regularly hosts exhibitions and events that spotlight up-and-coming talent from Manchester’s flourishing art scene.
Address: James St, Salford M3 5HW
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
Saul Hay Fine Art
Established in 2016, Saul Hay Fine Art is one of the leading contemporary galleries in Manchester.
It features an eclectic collection of original artworks from both emerging and established artists.
Address: Railway Cottage, behind Bass Warehouse, Railway, Castle St, Manchester M3 4LZ
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
Waterside Arts Centre
Located in Sale, the Waterside Arts Centre is an award-winning complex that includes theatres, studios, and galleries.
It plays a vital role in the local community and hosts a wide range of cultural events.
Address: 1 Waterside, Sale M33 7ZF
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
Salford Museum and Art Gallery
Just outside of Manchester, the Salford Museum and Art Gallery offers a blend of Victorian and modern architecture, featuring the permanent Victorian Gallery and a range of changing exhibitions.
Address: Crescent, Salford M5 4WU
You can find out more on their website by clicking here
Have we missed any? Let us know! [email protected]
- This article was last updated 3 months ago.
- It was first published on 16 September 2024 and is subject to be updated from time to time. Please refresh or return to see the latest version.
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