Opened in 2002, the Imperial War Museum North is located at the Salford Quays, a formerly industrial area that was devastated during World War II’s Manchester Blitz. The museum is divided into three gallery areas. The main exhibition space features thousands of objects, including everything from the World War I field gun that fired the first British round on the Western Front to rubble from the World Trade Center. The 360° Big Picture Show is an immersive cinematic display, while the Reactions gallery features contemporary artworks, performances, and other commissioned pieces.
The museum is free to enter, and its location near other Manchester highlights—including the Lowry and Old Trafford Stadium—makes it a natural stop for walking and cultural tours in the area.