The Manchester Jewish Museum has reopened to the public today following its £6 million revamp.

To enable the renovation work, the museum shut its doors two years ago after receiving a £2.89 million grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and amassing a further £3 million in funding from private donors and trusts.

Now complete with a brand new extension, it more comprehensively documents the social history of Manchester Jewry.

Its new exhibit explores the themes of journeys, communities and identities through a range of artefacts and interactive screens.

Other additions are a vegetarian kosher-style café, plus gallery, shop, learning studio and kitchen. 

“Whilst just two years in the making in terms of construction and design, this redevelopment has been a long labour of love spanning almost a decade,” said CEO Max Dunbar.

“Integral to this rebuild and renovation has been a desire for the new museum to fit into its cultural landscape architecturally and to be a place to explore what connects us all. 

“This was about creating a space for dialogue across difference, using the museum’s collection to spark debate and explore both shared and unique stories from diverse communities. We are so proud of our results and we cannot wait for everyone to come through our doors from Friday.”