Whitworth Art Gallery

Overview

The Whitworth is an internationally renowned art gallery set in Whitworth Park. A £17 million extension in 2015 by MUMA Architects added stunning glass galleries that blur the boundary between art and landscape, winning the Art Fund Museum of the Year.

Highlights

• Textile Collection: One of the world's largest collections of textiles outside London's V&A, spanning 2,000 years.
• Wallpaper Collection: The UK's finest collection of historic and contemporary wallpapers.
• Art Garden: The gallery's rear glass wall opens directly into the park, creating an 'art in the park' experience.

History

Founded in 1889 with money from Sir Joseph Whitworth, the gallery is part of the University of Manchester. The 2015 extension doubled its exhibition space while preserving the Edwardian red-brick original.

Visitor Tips

• Admission: Free; check the website for current exhibitions.
• Café: The award-winning café overlooks the park.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.