Find out what made Manchester an industrial powerhouse by engaging with the amazing exhibitions on the site of one of the world’s first passenger railway stations.
Fittingly located on the site of one of the world’s first passenger railway stations, the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) showcases Manchester’s place in history as the home of the Industrial Revolution. MOSI’s interactive exhibits go well beyond that subject, however, and you will need more than one day to take it all in. The amazing displays are great fun for children, but engaging for everyone with an interest in the workings of nature and clever inventions. MOSI offers several permanent galleries on technologies that have revolutionized the world but are taken for granted today. Manchester’s central place in industry is highlighted through exhibitions of objects engineered or produced in the area, such as the long-range maritime patrol aircraft in the Air & Space Gallery.Start by visiting the Revolution Manchester Gallery, which provides an overview of the museum’s collections. A great way to discover the best of MOSI is by downloading a free, themed audio trail, which lets you find 10 objects relating to one particular subject in some of the galleries. Visit the exhibits that relate to Manchester’s entrepreneurial past, such as The Making of Manchester Gallery. Learn about the life of Mancunians from the era of the Roman Empire to the present day and discover why Manchester is the place where scientists first split the atom. Go to the Textiles Gallery to try out braiding and weaving. Some exhibits include live demonstrations and motion simulators. There is also the 4-D Theatre with moving seats, air blasts and water sprays. Details of all exhibits and the extra charges applicable for the movies and simulators can be found on the MOSI website.Admission to the Museum of Science and Industry is free, but a voluntary donation for upkeep is appreciated. The on-site parking lot is expensive, but you can also get to the museum by taking the Metrolink tram to Deansgate-Castlefield or by catching the free Metroshuttle bus, which services city center train stations as well as some car parks and bus stops. MOSI is open daily, except December 24-26 and January 1.
