Street Art: The Modern History of the Northern Quarter
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the back streets for urban art & discover how ceramic art transformed the area into the city's coolest district. We cast a critical eye & learn about issues facing the city from social justice to public spaces, and look at the ethics behind public art itself.
The tour tracks the transformation of the Northern Quarter since the 1970s when it was in decline in the wake of our first American-style shopping mall, the Arndale Centre, opening.
The area, the one with the highest density of protected buildings in the city, was cited by cultural icon Tony Wilson in the 90s as being 'our Detroit' owing to a mass evacuation of businesses.
It was art that turned the area around from 1998 onwards. The tour discovers the original ceramic art trail & uses more modern street art in order to weave together the narrative. We also take a dive into AirBnBs, gentrification, public space & where to sit down.
I donate 10% profit to local causes. Sustainable, thoughtful & inclusive tourism
Available options
Street Art: The Modern History of the Northern Quarter
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
This is a tour for those interested in the city's counterculture with an authentic voice from that scene, told through its street art.
Discussing not only of triumphs in architecture and heritage but real issues facing the city today from social justice to public spaces. The tour tracks the transformation of the Northern Quarter since the 1970s when it was in decline in the wake of our first American-style shopping mall, the Arndale Centre, opening. The area, the one with the highest density of protected buildings in the city, was cited by cultural icon Tony Wilson in the early 90s as being 'our Detroit' owing to a mass evacuation of businesses. Abandoned and ruined it was the public art that turned the area around from 1998 onwards. The tour discovers that original ceramic art trail and uses more modern street art in order to weave together the narrative. We'll also discuss how the Northern Quarter is used as a film set, and we'll discover the backstreets of the area rather than the major streets and attractions as these are easy to discover on your own (though I'm happy to give you tips on where to explore after the tour, or where to go for lunch etc)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
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Tripadvisor
4.9
97 reviews
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We meet at SHUDEHILL METROLINK PLATFORM, next to the bike racks.
About Manchester
Manchester is a vibrant city in North West England known for its rich industrial heritage, world-class football, and thriving cultural scene. From historic architecture to cutting-edge contemporary art, Manchester offers a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity.
Top Attractions
Manchester Cathedral
A stunning example of Gothic architecture, Manchester Cathedral is a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful stained glass windows.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Science and Industry Museum
This museum showcases Manchester's rich industrial heritage with interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Old Trafford
Home to Manchester United Football Club, Old Trafford is a must-visit for football fans.
Sports
2-4 hours (depending on the tour and match schedule)
Varies depending on the tour or match ticket
John Rylands Library
A stunning neo-Gothic building housing a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Black Pudding
A type of blood sausage made from pork blood, oatmeal, and spices. It's often served as part of a traditional English breakfast.
Breakfast
Contains pork and is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Manchester Tart
A traditional British dessert made with a pastry base, jam, custard, and coconut.
Dessert
Contains dairy and is not suitable for vegans.
Pie and Mash
A classic British dish consisting of a savory pie filled with meat and gravy, served with mashed potatoes and onion gravy.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Peak District
Cycling along the Bridgewater Canal
Spa day at The Lowry Hotel
Afternoon tea at The Midland Hotel
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending a theater performance
Boat tours along the Manchester Ship Canal
Ice skating at Manchester Cathedral
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous outdoor festivals and events. The city is lively with many cultural activities and sports events.
15-22°C
59-72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Manchester is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate compared to other major UK cities. However, as with any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Manchester Airport • 14 km (8.7 miles) from city center
By train
Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria
By bus
Manchester Coach Station, National Express stops around the city
Getting around
Public transport
The Metrolink tram system is efficient and covers most of the city's major attractions. It's a convenient way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Northern Quarter
Castlefield
Spinningfields
Ancoats
Day trips
Chester
35 km (22 miles) • Full day
A charming medieval city with a rich history and beautiful architecture. Chester is known for its Roman walls, historic buildings, and shopping streets.
Liverpool
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
A vibrant city with a rich musical heritage, Liverpool is home to the Beatles and a wealth of cultural attractions.
Peak District
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
The UK's first national park, the Peak District offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and charming villages.
Festivals
Manchester Pride • Late August
Manchester International Festival • Biennial (every two years, typically in July)
Christmas Markets • Late November to mid-December
Pro tips
- Use the Metrolink tram system for easy and affordable travel around the city
- Visit the city's museums and galleries on free entry days or during special events
- Explore the city's street art and graffiti in the Northern Quarter and Ancoats
- Take a day trip to the nearby Peak District for hiking and outdoor activities
- Try local specialties such as black pudding, Manchester tart, and pie and mash
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
