Greater Manchester Police Museum
The Greater Manchester Police Museum is a FREE entry attraction that is often overlooked in this busy city. Whether you like to dress up as a police officer, get locked in a cell or stand in the dock, there is plenty for all the family to see & do within this hidden gem.
The museum was actually an active police station until 1980 but has now been restored to its Victorian glory days – giving you a glimpse back in time of policing methods of old. The great advantage here is that you can combine it with a spot of shopping/eating as this works well as a half day attraction.
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Enter the dock at the old Magistrates Court
Greater Manchester Police Museum; Look Out For
1. Children will love dressing up as Police Officers with a large range of police outfits, hats & helmets to keep them amused. Just remember your camera!
2. Enter an old police cell and have a seat on one of the cell beds complete with wooden pillow. See how it is to have the cell door close behind you that always goes down a treat with children.
3. Check out the old magistrates court that wouldn’t look out of place in an Agatha Christie movie. Stand in the dock and face the magistrates bench to await sentence.
4. Take time out to chat to the volunteers, many of whom are retired officers, that can provide a fascinating insight into the police station when it was fully operational.
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Dress up at the Greater Manchester Police Station
Greater Manchester Police Museum, (more information)
1. Great to see that the Greater Manchester Police Station is FREE of charge although voluntary donations are welcome to help towards the upkeep. You now need to book in advance.
2. The Police Museum runs on very limited opening hours. Generally, in term time, the museum is only open Tuesdays between 10.30am-3.30pm. On occasion, often during the school holidays, this extends to Thursdays but worth double checking before planning your visit.
3. The Crime Room contains some quite macabre exhibits and is best avoided with younger children. There are warnings on the door to the room so can be easy avoided during your tour of the buildings.
4. Often the Police Museum will put on additional activities during the school holidays such as finger-printing, meeting the police dogs & horses. Best to check before you visit as this can be a little hit & miss.
5. Not the easiest place to find as, due to its limited opening hours, signage is minimal! Once you have located Newton Street, look up for the old Police Station gas lamp as you walk along the road. More information available at the Greater Manchester Police Museum.
Enter the old style police cell!
