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Offered languages
- English
Uncover the captivating story of how Manchester transformed from an obscure village into the birthplace of the modern world. This engaging walking tour explores the city's rich industrial history, taking you past significant landmarks like the world's first factory and the historic cotton mills and canals of Ancoats. With insights drawn from 45 years of journalism, experience the hidden influences that shaped today's societal discourse. The tour concludes in the stylish St Ann's Square, and suitable for most fitness levels, it offers a mix of history and storytelling that makes Manchester's past come alive.
- 5-star rated walking tour led by an experienced guide
- Explore Manchester's industrial landmarks and hidden history
- Tailored walking options available for all fitness levels
- Regular weekly walks and bespoke private tours offered
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
I'll be standing with a sign outside the main gates, as per my cover photo. Chetham's is opposite Victoria Train and Tram station, close to the Urbis Football Museum amnd Manchester Cathedral
St Ann's is central to Manchester's shopping district, all points in the city easily reached on foot or bny bus or tram from nearby
Itinerary
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(Pass by)
This is Manchester's oldest building- 1421- Inside the second floor alcove Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels researched their theories of Communism! Here I give an overview of the tour, what people will see and learn, and a quick overview of Manchester before the Industrial revolution. Also health and safety advice.
Admission ticket free -
1
At the statue of Robert Owen I describe his legacy as the father of the Co-operative movement and emphasis that the process of industrialisation produced many ideas. This was one of the first
3 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Off Balloon Street one of the world's first hot air balloon flights happened. I discuss why not all inventions are significant. In fact before late 18th century Manchester, most made no economic difference at all.
3 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
The site where the industrial revolution took physical form is now mere rubble. Once the world's first factory stood here. Why is there no evidence of such a momentous place. I explain. You'll be stunned!
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Northern Quarter
On Thomas Street stands an unassuming but rare house. Built in 1785 its façade has never been altered, making it unique in Manchester and rare in the UK. More, we know who lived here in the late 18th and 19th centuries giving a fascinating insight to Manchester away from smokey factories!
3 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
One of Manchester's oldest streets. It used to be a river. It is still there deep beneath us. IT has a strong connection to animals!
2 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
Our first stop on this street is New Cross. For centuries where workers came to protest and riot over bread, the vote and mechanisation. Like London's Speaker's Corner, but with added violence.
2 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7
One of Manchester's oldest pub's. It was crucial to the development of banking and insurance infrastructure in the city.. the back rooms where deals were made remains!
2 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8
In 1851 this was probably the most densely populated place on the planet. Friedrich Engels gave a vivid descriptions of it in his key work Conditions of the Working Class in England. What is there now? Why is it called Anita Street?
3 minutes • Admission ticket free -
9
Drink, alcoholism and the temperance movement in the Industrial Revolution: Why beer made sense and pubs were vital. Also a strange tale about ice cream
4 minutes • Admission ticket free -
10
The Rochdale canal was a game changer. Connecting Manchester to the east and west coasts. From now on it becomes the commercial capital of the industrial revolution, as manufacturing moves away
3 minutes • Admission ticket free -
11
Piccadilly Basin was once the goods in, goods out yard to the world. It connected canals to the railways. Today it features the city's oldest warehouse a beautifully restored building featuring some clever engineering
2 minutes • Admission ticket free -
12
On Port Street in a late 18th century cottage just like five surviving examples the Industrial Revolution's greatest Engineer established his workshop...who was he?
3 minutes • Admission ticket free -
13
In 1853 the Watts building opened and it remains one of the most stunning buildings in the city. I'll explain why
2 minutes • Admission ticket free -
14
The Athenaeum and its sister building the Manchester Art Gallery; where great art and thought collided, and a the plot hatched for (possibly) the greatest art exhibition of all time!
3 minutes • Admission ticket free -
15St Peter's Square
St Peter's Square where the fight for the vote is bookended by two memorials- to a massacre and a brilliant woman!
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
16Albert Square
Civic power and pride represented in architecture -the iconic Manchester Town Hall
3 minutes • Admission ticket free -
17
Manchester's 'power street' where politics, money...and shopping meet!
3 minutes • Admission ticket free -
18
Decline and fall - why the Royal Exchange represents both the beginning and end of Manchester's industrial revolution epic. Also conclusion and farewell!
3 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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