People's History Museum

About this activity

The People's History Museum is the national museum of democracy that tells the story of its development in Britain, through the past, present and future. The museum is very family friendly and there are hands on exhibits in every gallery for all ages to enjoy. 

Explore the hands-on activities and digital interactives for all ages, visit the suffragette kitchen to play the Pank-a-Squith board game and see how fast you can work at the Bryant and May match factory through an arcade game. Or, if you're interested in music, why not play your favourite on their vintage jukebox?

The museum cares and collects a variety of objects for you to explore. From electic and colourful banners, badges, artwork and personal items, there's lots that tell the stories of ideas worth fighting for. There are over 450 banners including the most important trade union and political banners, with the oldest being the 1821 Tin Plate Workers society banner. 

As well as that, there are many events and activities that are family friendly. In the main gallery one, you'll learn about the Peterloo Massacre in 1819, meet the reformers, workers and voters and much more that lef to the reform of Parliament in 1832.

The main gallery two looks at politics and protest post 1945. From the foundation of the Welfare State, war and peace and LGBT+ rights. 

The Manchester Aronaut is a sculpture on display by Jason Wilshire-Mills and is about activism and the rights of disabled people. It's a positive and authentic display that reflects personal stories and experiences and carries lots of messages. 

Did you know there's also bingo too? There are 25 banners in the exhibition situated in the main galleries so go on a hunt and be the first to declare house! You can collection your bingo card from the info desk and you'll recieve a special prize for taking part too. Make sure you keep checking the website for more events and activities so you know what's happening where and when before you visit.