Greater Manchester Police Museum

Greater Manchester Police Museum is housed in an 1879 police station complete with prison cells and a charge office. Downstairs, you can see original police vehicles, equipment and evidence. Whilst upstairs there is an 1895 magistrates’ court so you can play judge – or the accused.

The museum is only open to the public on Tuesdays but pre-booked, free group tours are available on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Look out for Dinky Detectives pre-schooler sessions and family-friendly workshops during school holidays.

As well as the museum, there are various archives held here, including the Alien Register Index from the First and Second World Wars, the Police Appointment Registers, and photograph collections showing everything from officers inspecting bomb damage in Hulme to the first women in Greater Manchester’s police forces. It’s a useful resource if you’re researching your family history.

There is a small souvenir shop but no café. As the museum is in the Northern Quarter, there are plenty of places to eat and drink nearby.