IWM North (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is IWM North?
What makes it 75% Kids-Friendly: School-age children get free Story Seekers trails, craft workshops and spy missions, with step-free access and family toilets; some loud war sounds and mature themes mean it is good but not perfect.
Positives:
- Accessibility: Step-free access and wide lifts make moving around easy with buggies.
- Family facilities: Use baby-change, quiet room and highchairs in the café for comfort.
- Interactive learning: Trails and workshops keep kids aged 3-12 active and curious.
Challenges:
- Somber content: Some exhibits include graphic war stories that may upset sensitive children.
- Sloping floors: Sharp angles and slopes can tire younger kids; plan rest breaks between galleries.
What is IWM North?
- A branch of the Imperial War Museum network in Manchester dedicated to exploring the impact and aftermath of modern conflict
- The museum presents permanent and temporary exhibitions that chart the political, social and personal dimensions of warfare from 1914 to the present
- Housed in an angular, deconstructivist structure by Daniel Libeskind, whose shattered-globe design embodies themes of fragmentation and remembrance
What is so special about IWM North for with kids?
- Free entry with interactive family trails and workshops
- Immersive 360° film experience
- Iconic poppy art and bold architecture
- Family-friendly facilities including quiet room and baby-change
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for main exhibitions, Big Picture Show and a family activity without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in IWM North
Story Seekers Trail:
Follow a map to find six story points around the museum.
Tip: Pick up the free trail sheet at the Welcome Desk and start early to keep kids engaged.
Spies, Lies and Deception:
Enter the Mission Room to solve clues and earn a spy certificate.
Tip: Collect the trail sheet on arrival and guide kids through each challenge.
Big Picture Show:
Experience a 360° immersive film about war from trenches to peace.
Tip: Arrive 5 minutes early for good seats and bring ear defenders for younger children.
Art and Sculpture Trail:
View hundreds of ceramic poppies and the outdoor “Man on Fire” sculpture.
Tip: Use this photo spot to break up the tour and spark conversation about the art.
Weekend & Holiday Workshops:
Join free craft and history games sessions for ages 5+.
Tip: Book free tickets on arrival at the Welcome Desk; spaces fill fast.
Architecture Walk:
Explore Daniel Libeskind’s sharp-angled design reflecting conflict.
Tip: Explain the sloping floors as part of the “shattered globe” concept.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to IWM North
- Early start: Arrive at opening to avoid crowds and get the best seats for the film.
- Collect trail sheets: Pick up all activity sheets at the Welcome Desk to structure your visit.
- Travel light: Use on-site lockers to stow bags and make moving between exhibits easier.
Reviews of IWM North
Tim
Would really recommend IWM North to anyone. Laid out really well and lots of historical pieces. There is a couple of interactive things for the kids to do also. The shop has a great selection of items as well. Took me and my 12 year old son 1 hour 30 minutes to go round and he was very impressed with the museum. Definately worth a visit if your in the area!
denise osman
Very interesting. Be prepared to use all your senses in this visit! Lots of items on display with good information. Very good amount of interactivity. Enjoyed the enigma interaction to decode the message. Reading some of the letters on display brought a few tears. Guess the smells was very interesting. To have a chance to learn how things like chlorine gas and mustard gas smell was an unexpected p...
Toxteth O' Grady
First time I’d visited here for almost 20 years. Still free entry, which is great. The collection & use of the space has improved a little over that time. A couple of interactive exhibits such as tank driving & an Enigma machine (both screen based) to have a play on. Parking is run by NCP but the pay machine was out of order so you may want to download the app just in case.
Charani De Silva
This war memorial museum is an absolute must-visit. The creativity is remarkable, with 3D animations shown every 40 minutes that bring history to life. The experience feels surreal, with real artifacts, remnants of war, powerful survivor stories, and the sacrifices made by our heroes on display. Knowledgeable staff explain war strategies in detail and even let visitors try on different types of so...
Khalid Khaliq
Excellent museum. Spacious facility. Great exhibits. Helpful staff. Free entrance. How be careful NCP parking must be paid with in 24 hours. Highly recommended if in Manchester.
When is the best time to visit IWM North (Manchester, United Kingdom)?
Check dates for the February half-term “A Taste of Home” drop-in and Christmas holiday workshops before you go.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Coffee (2) | GBP 7 |
| Kids meals (2) | GBP 12 |
| Guidebook | GBP 6 |
| Parking (2h) | GBP 5 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 30 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of IWM North
Address: The Quays, Trafford Wharf Rd, Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester M17 1TZ, UK
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About IWM North
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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