50 years of GMP's history being celebrated within the walls and cells of our museum

Innovation, problem-solving, intuition and good old-fashioned policework are mainstays of British policing – and our museum is proudly shining a light on our greatest work from our 50 years as a force.

As part of the force’s 50th anniversary celebrations, visitors can expect to see a range of activities and exhibitions that showcase the story of Greater Manchester Police since its inception on 1 April 1974.

This includes vehicle displays, uniform changes from over the years, an in-depth look at the work we’ve done to solve all manner of crimes, and innovative work such as the force’s first facial reconstruction in a bid to discover the identity of a woman.

The force’s Roll of Honour rests in the museum, commemorating the sacrifices of those who died in the line of duty for the force, while items from seminal moments in the city region’s history – such as the Strangeways Prison Riot – can be viewed by those who attend.

In the weeks and months that we are marking the force’s half-century, a display in the museum’s preserved custody cells showcase some of the great photos from the years – and may jog a memory or two!

In addition, young guests can take part in a district trail, to track down all of the ten districts that make up Greater Manchester Police. Creatively inclined visitors to the museum can also create a piece of bunting which will be collated into a piece for the 50th.

Helen Mallinson, Museum Education and Engagement Officer at GMP, said: “We have so much to be proud of from our 50 year history and plenty of our work is documented in the rooms of our museum. From fake gold to off-road bikes via our incredible collection of hats – you can see much of the progression of both policing and local history within the walls of our former station.

“While GMP is 50 years old, our museum covers everything from the early Peelers of the 19th century through the Victorian era and both World Wars. The force’s last 50 years are a chapter in a long history of policing in this fantastic area of the country.”

Our museum is open to the public every Tuesday, 10.30am – 4pm (including Thursdays during the school holidays).

For more information, visit gmpmuseum.co.uk.