One of the most iconic buildings at The Quays is the Imperial War Museum North, designed around three interlocking fragments of the globe which represent water, earth and air. The award-winning building, designed by Daniel Libeskind, is a visual symbol of war. You have to walk around the building which seems like a grey bunker to get to the entrance.
On the ground floor, just as you come in, there’s the museum shop which is great for unusual gifts and souvenirs. Also on the ground floor is the learning area which hosts activities and events on certain days plus your history online for you to trace members of your family who may have died in the wars. If you have the service and regiment it makes it a lot simpler but there are volunteers on hand to help.
Within the building, built with angles and sloping floors to disconcert the visitor, on the first floor the Time Line of conflicts stretches from the First World War to the present day with six silos showing themed exhibitions like Women & War and Science, Technology & War.
In the main hall an AV8a Harrier jump-jet is dramatically suspended from the ceiling and large floor exhibits include a T34 Russian tank and a fire-fighting trailer. For younger visitors there are TimeStack object handling sessions at set times throughout the day led by “interactors” but if you arrive in time for one of the introductory tours, do go on it as the guide will give you a fascinating insight into how the museum was built and some history of the docks.
Perhaps the most enthralling part for us was the 360 degree audio visual display which lasts about 15 minutes and runs on the hour. From wherever you are you can see and hear ordinary people talking about how war changed their lives. It’s an incredibly powerful and thought-provoking experience.
From the Watershard café there is a fantastic view over the historic Manchester Ship Canal plus you have amazing views from the Air Shard viewing platform. The café offers a range of refreshments but there’s also a picnic room with low tables and activities for children.
The test of a good museum is that it appeals to all age ranges in families and it's the type of place you’d be happy to visit again. The Imperial War Museum North scores on all counts!
The Imperial War Museum North is closed 25 and 26 December but open daily: