Mighty Manchester is a cultural powerhouse, brimming with exhibitions that cater to every artistic appetite. From immersive installations and wildlife photography to cutting-edge art pieces and contemporary sculptures by era-defining artists, this bustling city is home to a wellspring of creative experiences helping Mancunians' cultural scene to flourish.
Whether you're drawn to modern masterpieces, captivated by historical relics, or curious about the latest in science and innovation, get your daily dose of culture with our guide to the best Manchester exhibitions in 2025. Happy wandering.
Best Exhibitions Manchester Has To Offer
The LS Lowry Collection
- The Lowry, Pier 8 The Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ
- Permanent
- Free entry
L.S. Lowry was a uniquely individual artist who captured the essence of Northern Britain through his work, documenting its people, landscapes, and architecture with a remarkable blend of sensitivity and wit. The largest collection of Lowry's work is fittingly housed at The Lowry gallery, offering an incredible opportunity to explore his legacy.
These works resonate greatly with those familiar with the industrial landscapes and daily activities they portray, whether it's the iconic 'Going To Work' or the bustling 'Market Scene.' Beyond his paintings, the gallery features an extensive archive of photographs, press clippings, and exhibition catalogues, which provide insights into Lowry's life and artistic process.
This permanent exhibition is a must-visit, offering a deep dive into the cultural fabric of the North West at the true home of L.S. Lowry.
Rethinking The Grand Tour
- Manchester Art Gallery, Mosley Street, M2 3JL
- Until 31st December 2025
- Free entry
The Grand Tour was a staple part of western culture for 200 years, the custom among the wealthy of travelling through Europe. Throughout the the 1700s and 1800s, it was popular for young, upper-class men to travel to Greece, Italy and even the Middle East, taking in the history and culture of these countries.
Rethinking The Grand Tour explores the negative side of this trend, as many artefacts were stolen and taken to British museums. Manchester Art Gallery itself purchased many of these artefacts, and decades later they are reassessing this with works of art that address the themes of migration, trade, heritage and colonisation.
This reflective exhibition takes a look at the sinister side of Manchester's historic art gallery scene.
Małgorzata Mirga-Tas
- The Whitworth, Oxford Road, M15 6ER
- Until 7th September 2025
- Free entry
Part of the University of Manchester, The Whitworth is a fantastic art gallery, and they're currently hosting an exhibition on Roma-Polish artist Małgorzata Mirga-Tas. her work is mainly made up of large-scale panels, using textiles and fabric to tell a narrative.
Mirga-Tas was selected to represent Poland at the 2022 Venice Biennale, making her the first ever Roma artist to be represented in the Biennale's history. You can visit this fantastic display for free, though pre-booking is essential.
Małgorzata Mirga-Tas tells stories through textiles at this great choice of art exhibitions in Manchester today.
Trading Station: How Hot Drinks Shape Our Lives
- Manchester Art Gallery, Mosley Street, M2 3JL
- Until 31st December 2026
- Free entry
Did you know? Hot drinks, once indulgences solely for the elite, have brewed revolutions, sparked conversations, and even influenced the design of our living spaces. Trading Station: How Hot Drinks Shape Our Lives explores these global histories, uncovering their ties to slavery, colonisation, and today's ethical dilemmas.
This free exhibition in Manchester spans four centuries, showcasing everything from silverware and porcelain to fashion, art and more while asking tough questions and revealing hidden stories.
After moseying around the exhibition, finish with a cup of tea in the museum café and let the conversations steep.
At Home With The Pankhurst Family
- Pankhurst Centre, 60-62 Nelson Street, M13 9WP
- Permanent
- £5 for a yearly pass, £6 on the door
Searching for photography exhibitions in Manchester? No.62 Nelson Street, rescued from demolition in the 1980s, is now the heart of the Pankhurst Centre, dedicated to preserving the legacy of Emmeline Pankhurst.
This historic building, where the suffragette movement was born, offers an immersive exhibition titled At Home With The Pankhurst Family that delves into their lives and achievements, capturing the spirit of activism and the groundbreaking achievements that took root here. Walk through the very rooms where the Women's Social & Political Union held its first meeting in 1903 and feel inspired by the story of one of history's most radical families.
The Pankhurst Centre's exhibition space has undergone a stunning transformation with the debut of its new permanent exhibit.
Titanic Exhibition Manchester
- Manchester Central, Windmill Street, M2 3GX
- Opens 31st July 2025
- £21.99 per person
Coming to Manchester Central in July, the Titanic Exhibition gives you the chance to experience this tragic part of history like never before. It's set to be a combination of immersive experiences and genuine artefacts rescued from the shipwreck, such as Chinaware from the kitchen and the personal belongings of passengers.
Through the use of large imagery and audio, you'll feel as though you're really there, and the free audio guide tells the tale of the Titanic and its passengers with music and sound effects. Tickets cost £21.99 per person, with group discounts available.
Experience history first hand at the Titanic Exhibition.
Can't get enough? Check out our guide to the best museums and galleries in Manchester.
