Guided Walking Tour of How Manchester Invented the Modern World

Uncover the captivating story of how Manchester transformed from an obscure village into the birthplace of the modern world. This engaging walking tour explores the city's rich industrial history, taking you past significant landmarks like the world's first factory and the historic cotton mills and canals of Ancoats. With insights drawn from 45 years of journalism, experience the hidden influences that shaped today's societal discourse. The tour concludes in the stylish St Ann's Square, and suitable for most fitness levels, it offers a mix of history and storytelling that makes Manchester's past come alive. - 5-star rated walking tour led by an experienced guide - Explore Manchester's industrial landmarks and hidden history - Tailored walking options available for all fitness levels - Regular weekly walks and bespoke private tours offered

1. 1

   Chetham's Library

   Pass by

   This is Manchester's oldest building- 1421- Inside the second floor alcove Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels researched their theories of Communism! Here I give an overview of the tour, what people will see and learn, and a quick overview of Manchester before the Industrial revolution. Also health and safety advice.

2. 2

   Robert Owen Statue

   3 min

   At the statue of Robert Owen I describe his legacy as the father of the Co-operative movement and emphasis that the process of industrialisation produced many ideas. This was one of the first

3. 3

   Stop 3

   3 min

   Off Balloon Street one of the world's first hot air balloon flights happened. I discuss why not all inventions are significant. In fact before late 18th century Manchester, most made no economic difference at all.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   5 min

   The site where the industrial revolution took physical form is now mere rubble. Once the world's first factory stood here. Why is there no evidence of such a momentous place. I explain. You'll be stunned!

5. 5

   Stop 5

   3 min

   On Thomas Street stands an unassuming but rare house. Built in 1785 its façade has never been altered, making it unique in Manchester and rare in the UK. More, we know who lived here in the late 18th and 19th centuries giving a fascinating insight to Manchester away from smokey factories!

6. 6

   Stop 6

   2 min

   One of Manchester's oldest streets. It used to be a river. It is still there deep beneath us. IT has a strong connection to animals!

7. 7

   Stop 7

   2 min

   Our first stop on this street is New Cross. For centuries where workers came to protest and riot over bread, the vote and mechanisation. Like London's Speaker's Corner, but with added violence.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   2 min

   One of Manchester's oldest pub's. It was crucial to the development of banking and insurance infrastructure in the city.. the back rooms where deals were made remains!

9. 9

   Stop 9

   3 min

   In 1851 this was probably the most densely populated place on the planet. Friedrich Engels gave a vivid descriptions of it in his key work Conditions of the Working Class in England. What is there now? Why is it called Anita Street?

10. 10

    Stop 10

    4 min

    Drink, alcoholism and the temperance movement in the Industrial Revolution: Why beer made sense and pubs were vital. Also a strange tale about ice cream

11. 11

    Stop 11

    3 min

    The Rochdale canal was a game changer. Connecting Manchester to the east and west coasts. From now on it becomes the commercial capital of the industrial revolution, as manufacturing moves away

12. 12

    Stop 12

    2 min

    Piccadilly Basin was once the goods in, goods out yard to the world. It connected canals to the railways. Today it features the city's oldest warehouse a beautifully restored building featuring some clever engineering

13. 13

    Stop 13

    3 min

    On Port Street in a late 18th century cottage just like five surviving examples the Industrial Revolution's greatest Engineer established his workshop...who was he?

14. 14

    Stop 14

    2 min

    In 1853 the Watts building opened and it remains one of the most stunning buildings in the city. I'll explain why

15. 15

    Stop 15

    3 min

    The Athenaeum and its sister building the Manchester Art Gallery; where great art and thought collided, and a the plot hatched for (possibly) the greatest art exhibition of all time!

16. 16

    St Peter's Square

    5 min

    St Peter's Square where the fight for the vote is bookended by two memorials- to a massacre and a brilliant woman!

17. 17

    Albert Square

    3 min

    Civic power and pride represented in architecture -the iconic Manchester Town Hall

18. 18

    King Street

    3 min

    Manchester's 'power street' where politics, money...and shopping meet!

19. 19

    St. Ann's Square

    3 min

    Decline and fall - why the Royal Exchange represents both the beginning and end of Manchester's industrial revolution epic. Also conclusion and farewell!

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.