Manchester Art Gallery, The Atrium

Great place to visit. Mix of old and contemporary art. Nice history from all over the world and local too. The cafe is also nice and pleasant atmosphere. Great interactive plac for kids too.

This is a charming and well put together, if smaller, art gallery right in the centre of Manchester. They are undergoing works I believe so the collection is a little changed, but works are thoughtfully presented and you enter into the first gallery where works of art are highlighted that reflect the grand tour and colonialism. It is interesting to learn how curators, contributors, and artists alike have selected these works, with personal insights. It isn't dictatorial and anyone that gets offended is clearly off their meds. Around the rear of the museum is an interesting collection of Dutch works of art, and a selection of statues presented in packing crates highlighting the vast reserves of undisplayed art, and also highlighting some gaps in knowledge surrounding some works. A visual representation of the detective work that happens was interesting and impactful. In the lower galleries a section has soft play and an unusual hexaganol ping pong table for younger visitors to enjoy. There is a cafe but it isn't clear if you are permitted to use those facilities to enjoy your packed lunch. Unlike other museums and galleries a picnic area isn't clearly highlighted. There is a well stocked gift shop with some interesting purchases to be made. It doesn't feel overloaded with tat just to turn a quick buck, a trap some attractions fall into. Recommend if you are in the area, wouldn't say it's a reason to visit the city on its own.