The Whitworth is one of the most beautiful art galleries in England, and it is also one of the most unusual. Part of the University of Manchester, it stands on the edge of Whitworth Park, a short distance south of the city centre, and a major extension that opened in 2015 pushed the gallery out into the park, with glass walls, a landscaped terrace and a cafe set among the trees. The extension won the Art Fund Museum of the Year award in 2015, and the gallery has attracted a large and loyal following since. The collection ranges from British watercolours, including works by Turner and Blake, to modern and contemporary art, and includes one of the largest and most celebrated collections of textiles and wallpapers in Britain, which reflects Manchester’s history as a centre of the cotton and printing trades. Exhibitions change frequently and often take a thoughtful, sometimes experimental approach, with contemporary artists from across the world, and the gallery also hosts talks, workshops and family activities throughout the year. Entry is free.
How to visit
The Whitworth is on Oxford Road at the northern edge of Whitworth Park, about a mile south of the city centre. Buses along Oxford Road, run every few minutes from Piccadilly Gardens and take around fifteen minutes, and Oxford Road station is a short walk away. The gallery is usually closed on certain days and open later on some evenings, so check the hours. Entry is free, with a charge for some special events, and the building has full step-free access.
What to expect
A visit takes one to two hours, and the park and cafe invite you to linger. Wander through the galleries, which flow from one to the next with views of the park, and look closely at the wallpaper and textile rooms, which show everything from historic patterns to contemporary designs. The cafe serves light meals and has a terrace in good weather. A shop sells art books, prints and gifts, and the gallery has a programme of family events at weekends and in school holidays.
Making the most of it
The Whitworth is the perfect partner to Manchester Art Gallery in the city centre, and together they give a good overview of the city’s collections. It is also close to Manchester Museum on the university campus, and an easy bus ride to the Curry Mile in Rusholme. The park offers walking paths, play areas and lawns that suit a picnic.
If you are interested in contemporary culture, check the programme for late openings, performances and talks, which often have a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that appeals to visitors as well as students. In winter, the glass-walled cafe is a warm place to watch the weather outside.
Good to know
The gallery is a pleasant stop for a quiet cup of coffee, and the cafe terrace is a lovely place to sit in fine weather. The park is a good place to stretch your legs, with lawns, trees and paths, and children can run around while adults enjoy a break. The gallery programme includes talks, tours and workshops, and some events are aimed at families. Lockers and a cloakroom may be available for coats and bags, so ask on arrival.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided gallery visit with changing exhibitions, permanent collections and a glass-walled cafe in the park.
Best time
A weekday morning or afternoon, then a stroll in Whitworth Park if the weather is fine.
How long
One to two hours.
Tips
Check the opening days before you travel, and use a bus along Oxford Road rather than walking from the centre.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Art and design lovers who like a relaxed, uncrowded gallery.
- Families
- The park, the cafe and the weekend family programme make it an easy outing.
- Couples
- A quiet and attractive afternoon, with coffee overlooking the trees.
- Pair with
- Manchester Museum on the university campus and Manchester Art Gallery in the centre.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Is the Whitworth free?+
Yes, entry is free, though some events and workshops may charge.
How do I get to the Whitworth?+
Take a bus along Oxford Road from Piccadilly Gardens, which takes about fifteen minutes, or walk from Oxford Road station.
What is the Whitworth known for?+
Its wallpaper and textile collections, British watercolours, modern and contemporary art, and a gallery that opens onto Whitworth Park.
Does the Whitworth have a cafe?+
Yes, a glass-walled cafe looks out over the park, with a terrace for dry weather.
How long should I stay?+
One to two hours is typical, with extra time if you want to walk in the park.