Description
If you’re a couple looking for a wedding venue that combines rich history with modern style, the People’s History Museum in Manchester is a standout choice. Set inside a beautifully restored Edwardian Pump House—a Grade II listed building—this venue offers a unique heritage backdrop full of character, perfect for making your wedding day truly unforgettable. Plus, by choosing this venue, you’re supporting the museum’s important mission to preserve stories from the past.
Spaces & Capacity
The museum offers a variety of licensed spaces that can suit weddings of all sizes, from intimate ceremonies to lively receptions. Here’s a quick look at the main options:
- The Engine Hall: This is the museum’s largest and most impressive space. With soaring arched windows, a vaulted glass ceiling, and original heritage features like colourful Pilkington tiles, it creates a stunning atmosphere. It can host up to 120 guests for a seated dinner and up to 200 for an evening reception. The Engine Hall is licensed for civil ceremonies and can be set up with a dance floor and stage to match your celebration style.
- The Coal Store: For a cozier, more intimate ceremony, the restored redbrick Coal Store offers a private setting with a striking double-height vaulted iron and timber ceiling. This charming room is licensed for civil ceremonies and comfortably seats up to 50 guests.
Planning Your Day
The People’s History Museum operates on a dry hire basis, giving you full control to personalise your wedding exactly how you want it—without any hidden fees. You can bring your own decorations and even access the venue the day before to set up and make sure everything is just right. The experienced in-house venue hire team is on hand to support you every step of the way. Standard hire includes tables, chairs, and a PA system for speeches, so you have the essentials covered.
Catering
Food is a big part of any celebration, and the museum’s in-house caterer, Open Kitchen, specialises in creating delicious, bespoke menus with sustainability in mind. They use locally sourced, ethical ingredients and creatively incorporate quality food that might otherwise go to waste. Whether you want seasonal dishes or vegan options, their chefs can craft a menu that fits your style and values perfectly.
Experience
Overview of People's History Museum
Pricing for People's History Museum
Location & Contact Details for People's History Museum
What makes the People's History Museum a unique wedding venue in Manchester?
The People's History Museum offers a stunning and historic backdrop for weddings, housed in a beautifully restored Edwardian Pump House—a Grade II listed building. Its unique combination of rich history and modern style creates an unforgettable setting that supports the museum's mission to preserve important stories.
What wedding spaces are available at the People's History Museum and what are their capacities?
The museum offers two main licensed wedding spaces:
- The Engine Hall: Seating up to 120 guests for a dinner and 200 for an evening reception, featuring soaring arched windows, vaulted glass ceiling, and Pilkington tiles.
- The Coal Store: A more intimate space seating up to 50 guests, with a double-height vaulted iron and timber ceiling.
Can I hold a civil ceremony at the People's History Museum?
Yes, both The Engine Hall and The Coal Store are licensed for civil ceremonies, allowing you to have your official wedding ceremony on-site in a beautiful setting.
Is the People's History Museum a dry hire venue for weddings?
Yes, the venue operates on a dry hire basis. This gives you full control to personalise your wedding without hidden fees, including bringing your own decorations and accessing the venue the day before for setup.
What standard equipment and facilities are included in the wedding hire?
Standard hire includes the essential furniture and equipment such as tables, chairs, and a PA system for speeches, ensuring your wedding has the basics covered.
Is catering provided at the People's History Museum weddings?
Yes, catering is provided by the in-house caterer Open Kitchen, known for bespoke, sustainable menus using locally sourced and ethical ingredients to suit a variety of dietary preferences, including vegan options.
Can I personalise my wedding décor at the People's History Museum?
Absolutely. Since it is a dry hire venue, you are encouraged to bring your own decorations to create the exact atmosphere and style you desire for your special day.
Does the venue support sustainable and ethical catering options?
Yes. The museum's catering partner, Open Kitchen, focuses on sustainability by using locally sourced ingredients and creatively incorporating quality food that might otherwise go to waste. They offer menus that suit seasonal and ethical preferences.
Is the venue accessible for setting up the day before the wedding?
Yes, couples can access the venue the day before their wedding to set up decorations and ensure everything is perfect ahead of the celebration.
Where is the People's History Museum located?
The People's History Museum is located in Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, at postcode M3 3ER, making it a convenient and historic venue choice in the heart of the city.
