Imperial War Museum North

Overall rating

4.83

About

IWM North tells the stories of those whose lives have been shaped by war through the depth, breadth and impact of our Galleries, displays and events. Our family learning sessions and events encourage debate and challenge people’s perceptions of war. Since opening in July 2002, IWM North has welcomed over 2.5 million visitors. IWM North is the fifth branch of Imperial War Museums and the first outside the South East of England. Designed by internationally-renowned architect Daniel Libeskind, the building’s iconic structure was inspired by the idea of a world shattered by conflict. Main Exhibition Space includes: Timeline – From the First World War to the present day. The Big Picture Show – Spectacular 360º image and sound shows run regularly throughout the day. Six separate themed exhibition areas. TimeStacks – Themed trays of objects displayed in interactive machines. Handling sessions available daily. Plus Special Exhibitions (see our website for details)

Reviews

Overall rating

4.83

(3 reviews)

Overall rating breakdown

5 2
4 1
3 0
2 0
1 0

Access (avg.)

Parking (avg.)

4.5

Toilets (avg.)

3.16

Staff (avg.)

4.83

andyrob

May 2025

4.5

Nice day out

We used the tram from Manchester. The museum has its own tram stop so easy to navigate, and the trams are great for wheelchair users. Quick walk from tram stop to museum and easy access. All areas in the museum are accessible, good clear items on display, plenty of space etc. The cafe is spacious and disabled toilets have plenty of room.

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sillysally

Mar 2024

Sensory packs and wheelchair to borrow

They had sensory packs available. I went on my crutches but whilst at the museum my legs suddenly felt very weak so I borrowed a wheelchair which my dad pushed but it was self propelled too which was nice because I could push myself to bits that I was particularly interested in

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manchesterx30

Jan 2017

Great access throughout, helpful staff

Since using a wheelchair, this is one of the best places I've been to for accessibility. We visited on a Saturday afternoon and there was plenty of parking with a street level entrance through automatic doors. (We did struggle paying for parking as the machine didn't work very well, I would take exact change in case there is no attendant available!). Staff were very helpful and knowledgeable when we were inside. Every part of the building was fully accessible and there were several disabled toilets.

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Disabled Access Information Provided by Imperial War Museum North

Disabled Access at Imperial War Museum North

Level access with automatic doors at Ground Level. Standard passenger lifts from Ground Level to Level One. All exhibition and public spaces are wheelchair accessible. Please be aware that the building has been designed to encourage visitors to consider the confusion experienced during conflict. As a result the floor of the main exhibition area has a gentle slope and visitors with mobility issues may wish to take extra care in this area. There are also different lighting levels over two floors.

Accessible parking at Imperial War Museum North

Secure parking is available for 160 cars, including 16 designated parking spaces for Blue Badge holders available on a first-come, first-served basis (charges apply).

Dedicated on site parking

Toilets features at Imperial War Museum North

Accessible toilets on the ground floor with step free access. Wheelchair accessible.

Accessible toilet

A designated accessible toilet designed for wheelchair users and others with visible and non-visible accessibility requirements is available within the main public areas.