Universally Manchester Festival

Carmel Smickersgill, Tours & Activities Editor
Prof Brian Cox
University of Manchester

6 — 9 June 2024 Entrance is free — Visit now

The University of Manchester has been the birthplace of many scientific, historical, artistic and academic breakthroughs. To celebrate this world-renowned institution’s 200th birthday, Oxford Road, the home of the University, is hosting a huge free festival. Between 6 and 9 June, there will be more than 150 events — everything from talks and discussions to music, art, comedy and poetry.

Universally Manchester Festival will be a celebration of art, science, history and the people who’ve made the University what it is.

Headlining the talking part of the weekend is the outer space’s David Attenborough in waiting, Brian Cox. The much loved astrophysicist will be unpacking some of the universe’s greatest secrets. Alongside Brian Cox you can join familiar faces from the screen David Olusoga, Michael Wood, Ana Carden-Coyne and Sadiah Qureshi as they explore the history and future of television.

David Olusoga
University of Manchester

Every part of the University is getting involved, including the Whitworth Art Gallery, where there’ll be a day carnival on Sunday 9 June. On the Saturday evening, indefatigable and multinational girl band Grrrl will be bringing their catchy beats, bang on politics and charismatic line up of musical stars to Gilbert Square. You will also find Kantos chamber choir and Mr. Wilson’s Second Liners bringing musical joy to the square over the weekend.

GRRRL
University of Manchester

Alongside the festival feel you can also see special pop up exhibitions at Manchester Museum and get hands on in science inspired craft workshops and visit the pop up market on Bridgeford Street. There are also a huge amount of talks talking place, ranging on subjects from NASA expeditions to social policy, scandal, feminist uprisings, war, and of course discussions that delve into Manchester’s past.

Nothing on this scale has been curated on Oxford Road Corridor before, making the weekend an exciting glimpse into how imaginative and immersive experiences can transform a place.

6 — 9 June 2024 Entrance is free Visit now

Where to go near Universally Manchester Festival

Originally built as the country retreat for the Vavasour family, Wood Hall still remains a place where today's pressures seem an age away. Set down a long private drive Wood Hall is perched high on the hill set amongst 100 acres, with fine views of the surrounding area.Set apart from the distractions of the office, Wood Hall is the ideal spot for business events, or simply some fresh thinking. The 2 AA Rosette Georgian Restaurant at Wood Hall Hotel creates a special atmosphere in which to enjoy a fine dining experience to mark a special occasion or just for the pleasure of it!Unwind in the spa, tone up in the gym, or step out and make the most of the beautiful Yorkshire surroundings. On sunny days you can dine al fresco with a specailly prepared picnic hamper in the Italian Gardens.
Hotel
Wood Hall Hotel

Originally built as the country retreat for the Vavasour family, Wood Hall is set amongst 100 acres, with fine views of the surrounding area.

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BLANK_

BLANK_is a Leeds-based gallery, run by the School of Creative Arts at University Centre Leeds. It encompasses a physical exhibition space and a publication that showcases new contemporary visual art…

Chancellors Hotel is a Grade II listed Victorian mansion located in South Manchester surrounded by five acres of beautiful landscaped gardens, in a relaxed, scenic and picturesque setting.
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