The Imperial War Museum North

Step into the past and discover the human impact of war at The Imperial War Museum North in Manchester.

Visitor Information: The Imperial War Museum North

• The Imperial War Museum North

  Description

  If you’re interested in history and culture, a visit to The Imperial War Museum North is a must-do when you’re in Manchester. This museum is dedicated to exploring the impact of war on people’s lives and showcasing the stories of those affected by conflicts around the world.

  The museum is housed in a stunning building designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind. Its striking design was inspired by the shattered landscapes of war and is intended to evoke emotions of confusion, disorientation, and loss. The museum’s exterior is made of glass and steel and features dramatic angles and irregular shapes, making it a striking sight from both the outside and the inside.

  Inside, the museum’s exhibitions explore the impact of war on people’s lives, with a particular focus on the experiences of those who lived through the First World War, the Second World War, and more recent conflicts. The museum’s galleries showcase a range of objects, artefacts, and personal stories that bring the realities of war to life. From tanks and fighter planes to letters, diaries, and photographs, the museum’s collections offer a unique insight into the human impact of conflict.

  One of the highlights of the museum is the Big Picture Show, a 360-degree audio-visual experience that immerses visitors in the sights and sounds of war. The show takes place in a purpose-built auditorium and is accompanied by a powerful soundtrack that evokes the emotions and experiences of those who lived through conflicts.

  Another must-see exhibition is the Horrible Histories Blitzed Brits exhibition, which takes visitors back to the time of the Second World War and explores how people coped with the challenges and hardships of life on the home front. The exhibition features interactive displays, recreated air raid shelters, and even a replica street scene complete with period shopfronts.

  Overall, a visit to The Imperial War Museum North is a powerful and thought-provoking experience. The museum’s collections and exhibitions offer a unique insight into the realities of war and its impact on people’s lives, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture.

• Highlights

  Not to be missed when visiting

  Main Exhibition Space: The Main Exhibition Space houses the museum’s significant collection of war artefacts, from military vehicles and weapons to personal items like letters and uniforms. The displays are rotated regularly, providing different perspectives on war and conflict.

  Big Picture Shows: The innovative 360-degree cinematic experience offers immersive shows that combine digital surround sound, projected images and real stories to reveal how war shapes lives.

  TimeStacks: Four “TimeStacks” or display towers are filled with a rich array of personal and poignant objects relating to war.

  Silhouette Wall: This feature gives an overview of how war has affected people’s lives from 1914 to the present day.

  Air Shard: Offering stunning panoramic views of the Quays and Manchester, the 29.5-metre Air Shard is a must-see.

  WaterShard Café & Kitchen: Situated on the ground floor of the WaterShard, this café offers a range of hot and cold food and drinks with a view over the Manchester Ship Canal.

  Special Exhibitions: IWM North also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year, focused on different aspects of war and conflict.

  Witnessing War Exhibition: This permanent exhibition tells the story of the war in chronological order from the First World War to the present day.