About This Tour
Explore the back streets for urban art & discover how ceramic art transformed the area into the city's coolest district. We cast a critical eye & learn about issues facing the city from social justice to public spaces, and look at the ethics behind public art itself. The tour tracks the transformation of the Northern Quarter since the 1970s when it was in decline in the wake of our first American-style shopping mall, the Arndale Centre, opening. The area, the one with the highest density of protected buildings in the city, was cited by cultural icon Tony Wilson in the 90s as being 'our Detroit' owing to a mass evacuation of businesses. It was art that turned the area around from 1998 onwards. The tour discovers the original ceramic art trail & uses more modern street art in order to weave together the narrative. We also take a dive into AirBnBs, gentrification, public space & where to sit down. I donate 10% profit to local causes. Sustainable, thoughtful & inclusive tourism
Final price may vary. Check availability for exact pricing.
Photo Gallery
Young photographers exploring the backstreets of the Northern Quarter
Photography groups learning about film locations
Radical Manchester
Final price may vary. Check availability for exact pricing.
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Street Art: The Modern History of the Northern Quarter
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What's Included
Additional Information
Meeting Point
We meet at SHUDEHILL METROLINK PLATFORM, next to the bike racks.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
✓ Free cancellation due to bad weather
Tour Operator
Skyliner: Alternative Tours and Anti-tours of Manchester
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Trusted local operator
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Guest Ratings
Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews
Based on 101 verified reviews
Average rating
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Street Art: The Modern History of the Northern Quarter
Who operates this experience?
This experience is operated by Skyliner: Alternative Tours and Anti-tours of Manchester, a local cultural provider.
What's included?
This tour includes All Fees and Taxes. All inclusions are provided by the tour operator.
How long is this tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you time to fully enjoy your chosen activity.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time for a full refund. If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled by the operator. In such cases, you'll be offered a refund or reschedule.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. All necessary equipment is provided.
Will I receive instant confirmation?
Yes, you'll receive instant confirmation when you book.
Is this tour worth it?
Yes, this experience has a 5.0-star rating based on 101+ reviews, making it a highly rated option.
What to expect on this tour?
This cultural experience lasts approximately 2 hours and includes all necessary equipment and guidance. You'll have access to All Fees and Taxes.
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Book Street Art: The Modern History of the Northern Quarter
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