Leading exhibition designers, Mather & Co, have been appointed to create a new attraction inside Manchester Town Hall telling the story of the iconic building, considered one of the finest examples of neo-Gothic architecture in the UK.
The Town Hall, which formally opened in 1877, has been closed since 2018 while the Our Town Hall project – one of the biggest heritage schemes the UK has ever seen – is carried out. The building is being repaired and restored to safeguard it for future generations. At the same time, it is also being sympathetically upgraded to modern safety and access standards.
Part of this huge project involves ensuring that the Town Hall’s story, including tales of the people who have played a part in its long history and the treasure trove of objects they have left behind, is told in an immersive and interactive way.
The exhibition aims to open the famous building up to more visitors, so they can explore the architecture and history of the building and share in the story of the Town Hall. The design will inspire further exploration, repeat visitation, and connect with the people of Manchester in new ways.
By restoring and celebrating this significant building, the objective is to increase access to Mancunians, Greater Manchester communities and tourists, whilst showcasing the vibrancy and culture of Manchester.
Visitors can expect something that unashamedly represents Manchester through an interactive and immersive experience that tells the unexpected story of the Town Hall.
The new visitor experience is due to open in 2024.