The Imperial War Museum

I loved this museum. It has pieces from all eras of war involving the British Military . WW1 - Afghanistan. Every 15 minutes there is a mini documentary that really invokes a feeling of "being there". Not one for sensitive people as it involves listening to heartbreaking dialogue of survivors experiences. Its worth sticking around for and you won't be stuck for a place to watch it as every wall is used as a screen and each screen is different.
The exhibitions themselves provide some fab opportunities to take excellent photos (you will need to get authorisation to do this as there are some restrictions) My personal favourite is the wall of suitcases used by evacuees during the war. Another is the filing cabinet room which my kids loved. Some open and have things to look at in them.
There are strong visual images painted onto the white walls by very talented local artists which can provide more photo ops.
As someone who is fascinated by WW2 I revelled in the chance to see real life objects such as ration books and stamps, soldiers belongings such as love letters, cigarettes, matches, playing cards etc.
During the holidays the staff provide free activities for children (details are available from the numerous members of staff who are very attentive and happy to help).
My son found the museum as fascinating as I did and he loved the opportunity to try out some camouflage clothing.
Very young children may be bored or scared of how loud the sound effects can be.
One word of warning. Bring your own food and drink. The cafe is ridiculously over-priced and very pretentious. No chips and nuggets (if thats your thing). There is a picnic area (though I spied several mums using the cafe tables anyway.)

I feel the gift shop deserves a mention as it is amazing. If old fashioned drinks bottles and wartime home office posters are your thing then you are in luck. I bought a "Keep Calm and Carry On" teatowel, a cola drink, a sasparilla drink (purely for the gorgeous bottles which look great on display in my kitchen) a ration book note pad and an old fashioned shopping bag that I get compliments on and is a lot cheaper than say a well known flowery designers efforts :o.

This museum is excellent, its free, easy to find and has a great view of Manchester from the viewing lift outside. Give it a go.

I loved this museum. It has pieces from all eras of war involving the British Military . WW1 - Afghanistan. Every 15 minutes there is a mini documentary that really invokes a feeling of "being there". Not one for sensitive people as it involves listening to heartbreaking dialogue of survivors experiences. Its worth sticking around for and you won't be stuck for a place to watch it as every wall is used as a screen and each screen is different.
The exhibitions themselves provide some fab opportunities to take excellent photos (you will need to get authorisation to do this as there are some restrictions) My personal favourite is the wall of suitcases used by evacuees during the war. Another is the filing cabinet room which my kids loved. Some open and have things to look at in them.
There are strong visual images painted onto the white walls by very talented local artists which can provide more photo ops.
As someone who is fascinated by WW2 I revelled in the chance to see real life objects such as ration books and stamps, soldiers belongings such as love letters, cigarettes, matches, playing cards etc.
During the holidays the staff provide free activities for children (details are available from the numerous members of staff who are very attentive and happy to help).
My son found the museum as fascinating as I did and he loved the opportunity to try out some camouflage clothing.
Very young children may be bored or scared of how loud the sound effects can be.
One word of warning. Bring your own food and drink. The cafe is ridiculously over-priced and very pretentious. No chips and nuggets (if thats your thing). There is a picnic area (though I spied several mums using the cafe tables anyway.)

I feel the gift shop deserves a mention as it is amazing. If old fashioned drinks bottles and wartime home office posters are your thing then you are in luck. I bought a "Keep Calm and Carry On" teatowel, a cola drink, a sasparilla drink (purely for the gorgeous bottles which look great on display in my kitchen) a ration book note pad and an old fashioned shopping bag that I get compliments on and is a lot cheaper than say a well known flowery designers efforts :o.

This museum is excellent, its free, easy to find and has a great view of Manchester from the viewing lift outside. Give it a go.

This is a very insightful, thought provoking day out for the whole family.

I hadn't been for a very long time, and having 2 DS's who are both solider mad, this seemed like a great trip out. We weren't disappointed - huge tanks, a great WW1 interactive trench (complete with smells) and a very thought provoking over 16 years of age, the holocaust exhibition on the top floor. We also really liked the true to life WW2 house and the submarine that you could go on! The cafe is also wonderful, lovely home made soups, quiches and for the kids burgers.....