Manchester Angel Meadow History Tour with Author Dean Kirby

5.0(119)1 h 30 minFree cancellationBy Manchester History Tours

About this activity

Step back in time to the rain-lashed streets of Angel Meadow – the Victorian Manchester slum so vile it was dubbed ‘Hell upon Earth’ by Friedrich Engels.

In the shadow of one of the world’s first cotton mills, 30,000 souls trapped by poverty are fighting for survival as the Industrial Revolution is built upon their backs.

Mancunian families are struggling to keep body and soul together in overcrowded lodging houses and deep cellars on the banks of the River Irk as gangs of scuttlers stalk the pavements outside.

In this new tour by me, historian and writer Dean Kirby, the author of the bestselling book Angel Meadow: Victorian Britain's Most Savage Slum, you will hear the hidden story of how the district and its people shaped one of the world's greatest cities.

Whether, like me, you are a descendant of Angel Meadow ancestors or have a burning passion to explore the history of Manchester, this tour is for you.

What's included

✓Bring a copy of my book and I'll sign and dedicate it for you.
✓Small group sizes so you can ask questions and have plenty of time to take photographs.
✓If your ancestors lived in Angel Meadow, contact me before and I'll mention them on the tour.
✓Regular stops where you’ll hear about the unusual characters who called Angel Meadow home.

Meeting and pickup

We'll meet outside the Sadler's Cat bar which is in Sadler's Yard, off Hanover Street, just two minute's walk from Manchester Victoria train station and Shudehill Bus Station. The postcode is M4 4AH.

Good to know

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
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not recommended for travelers unable to negotiate steps

Cancellation policy

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

More things to do in Manchester

Manchester Afternoon Walking Tour with local guide Gareth

Manchester has been my home for 25 years and for the last 9 I’ve been sharing it with visitors as an independent local guide. Discover the stories and history that made me fall in love with my city. If you only have a few days in Manchester, or you want to discover its secrets and explore the main attractions, this is the best walking tour in the city. Because I am limited by number I can ensure…

5.0(1,444)2 h 30 minFree cancellation

From £18 per person

Step Inside the Game Show–The Crystal Maze Experience Manchester

Step Inside the Game Show – The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience, London or Manchester Unleash your inner adventurer and dive into the ultimate 90-minute immersive experience at The Crystal Maze Experience – based on the hit British TV show! Perfect for families, friends, and thrill-seeking tourists, this one-of-a-kind challenge will have you racing against the clock across four thrilling zones: Azte…

4.9(1,318)1 h 30 minFree cancellation

From £39 per person

Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience in Manchester

Inspired by Hollywood Movies and TV that have brought to life America's infamous prison stories, Alcotraz is London's first immersive theatrical cocktail bar. From the orange jumpsuits upon entrance, to the real metallic cells, Alcotraz becomes the perfect backdrop to a drink within an epic yet intimate environment. You won’t find a set menu of drinks here…after all, it is prison! The working inm…

5.0(1,242)1 h 45 minFree cancellation

From £51 per person