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United Kingdom/Things to Do in Manchester, with kids

Manchester City Council (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Manchester City Council?

41%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 41% Kids-Friendly: Kids can see the big clock and scientist statues, but no hands-on displays, no family toilets or café, and tours are often cancelled, so under-12s tire quickly.

Google
Reviews4/ 5
(from 513 reviews)

Positives:

  • Central location: Situated in Albert Square, easy to reach by tram, bus or on foot from city centre.
  • Free admission: No entry fee makes it budget-friendly for families.
  • Educational value: Kids can learn about Victorian architecture and local history.

Challenges:

  • Limited visiting hours: Main hall is open during weekday office hours; weekends access may be restricted.
  • Quiet environment: Kids need to speak quietly inside the chambers and halls.
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Found this helpful? Please support us by visiting 🏖️ our GetYourGuide partner link - The 10 BEST Activities around Manchester City Council, and we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps us pay the bills and help more travelers!

What is Manchester City Council?

  • A metropolitan district council delivering governance, public services and regulatory functions across the city of Manchester
  • Composed of 96 elected councillors representing 32 wards, it makes policy and budget decisions under a leader and cabinet model
  • Operating from the neo-Gothic Town Hall, it manages housing, education, social care, waste collection and city planning

What is so special about Manchester City Council for with kids?

  1. Free entry to an iconic neo-Gothic city hall
  2. Close-up views of the 85m clock tower in Albert Square
  3. Interactive learning at the entrance hall statues
  4. Free guided tours on local history and architecture
  5. Central spot with nearby attractions and events

Note: Manchester City Council is 41% Kids-Friendly. You may want to consider other Kids-Friendly Things to Do in Manchester for a more suitable experience.

Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours

Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A short visit lets families see key highlights without tiring younger children.

(View Manchester City Council on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Manchester City Council

Admire the Gothic Clock Tower:

Walk around Albert Square to view the 85m-tall clock tower up close.

Tip: Visit in the morning for soft light and fewer tourists.

Explore the Entrance Hall Statues:

Find white marble statues of John Dalton and James Joule at the main entrance.

Tip: Read the plaques with your kids to spark a science chat.

Join a Free Guided Tour:

Attend a free heritage tour to learn about the hall’s history and architecture.

Tip: Book slots online or at the info desk a few days before your visit.

When is the best time to visit Manchester City Council (Manchester, United Kingdom)?

During winter, combine your visit with the Albert Square Christmas Market held nearby; in summer, attend free outdoor events on the square.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Manchester on Trip.com

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Reviews of Manchester City Council (Manchester)

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Joseph Twist

Joseph Twist

Sep 2025

An architecturally stunning building that is free to enter and well worth seeing inside and out. If you have the chance, a tour with a trip up the clocktower is an interesting way to spend a few hours.

Bafri Siq

Bafri Siq

Aug 2025

Terrible council that would rather fine us tickets than sort out the problem. They have made an absolute mess of every road. What’s the point of a permit system where we still get tickets. What a load of crap! And they still take loads of ctax! For what? Only God knows at this point

The Romanian Guy

The Romanian Guy

Mar 2024

Manchester City Council is the local government authority responsible for governing the city of Manchester, England. As the administrative body overseeing municipal services and policies, the council plays a crucial role in managing various aspects of city life, including housing, transportation, education, social services, and environmental initiatives. Comprising elected councillors representing...

Stu Richards

Stu Richards

Dec 2017

Really beautiful hall steeped in local history and a great place to host an event. We had the company Christmas party here and it was excellent. The food was cooked to perfection and served by great staff with the kind of precision and care you don't often see these days. Even posh Aunt Mabel wont be disappointed!

Phil

Phil

Aug 2017

City Hall is exceptionally impressive with many historic art works, numerous 'mansion like' meeting rooms, statues, marble columns and the list goes on! There is a cafe on the ground floor. Highly recommended if you are in Manchester and you are up for some history... hurry though because it closes Christmas 2017 for a minimum of 5 years whilst it is refurbished.

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Entry feeGBP 0
Tram return ticket (adult)GBP 4
Tram return ticket (child)GBP 2.5
Total EstimatedGBP 13

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Manchester City Council

  1. Combine with nearby sites: Pair your visit with Manchester Art Gallery or the Museum for a full educational day.
  2. Check guided tour schedule: Visit the council website to book a free guided tour in advance.
🚗 Planning to explore multiple Manchester attractions? A rental car often costs less than daily taxi trips. Check Trip.com for deals. New users save up to 8% OFF.

Map of Manchester City Council

Address: Town Hall, Albert Square, Manchester M2 5DB, UK

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Manchester City Council (Manchester)?

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About Manchester City Council

Opening Hours

Monday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:Closed
Sunday:Closed

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+44 161 234 4343

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