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.
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.
Mystery of Banksy - A Genius Mind
- Depot Mayfield, Fairfield Street, M1 2QF
- Open 13th March to 5th July 2026
- £22, under 6s go free
Coming to Manchester this spring, Mystery of Banksy - A Genius Mind is Europe’s most popular Banksy exhibition. It features over 200 reimagined works by the renowned street artist, taking you on a journey through his creative mind.
This will be held at Depot Mayfield, promising a collection of graffiti, photographs, sculptures, video installations and prints, all exclusively reproduced for this show. This is the first time this exhibition has happened in the UK, and you can secure tickets for just £22 - or cheaper if you sign up for their pre-sale.
Explore the magical mind of Banksy at this popular show.
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.
Can't get enough? Check out our guide to the best museums and galleries in Manchester.
