The Peterloo Massacre Tour
Supplied by: Jonathan Schofield Tours
Discover the story of the Peterloo Massacre, a pivotal moment in British history that shaped the fight for democracy.
In August 1819, around 60,000 peaceful protesters gathered in Manchester, calling for universal suffrage and fairer parliamentary representation amid rising poverty. What followed was a brutal response from the authorities—magistrates, fearing unrest, ordered troops to charge the crowd with sabres. Fifteen people were killed, and over 600 were injured. Though it led to immediate government repression, Peterloo became a symbol of resistance, fuelling long-term demands for electoral reform.
This guided tour offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of those who stood for change. Visiting key locations, you’ll hear the powerful words of those who were there, alongside poetry and insights that place the events in a modern context. A compelling way to engage with Manchester’s radical past.
Overview
Join the definitive tour about a moment that helped shape the future of the nation: The Peterloo Massacre.
In August 1819, a day came that coined a phrase and stirred a nation. Defining the British struggle for democracy, the Peterloo Massacre took place at St Peter's Field (near what is now St Peter's Square). Here, peaceful protesters met to demand universal suffrage and better representation in Parliament, against a backdrop of deepening poverty and pitiable conditions in industrial towns like Manchester.
Shortly before 1pm, the chair of the magistrates, William Hulton, declared the town “in great danger”, read the riot act and sent the deeply unpopular deputy constable, Joseph Nadin, to arrest Hunt. Nadin said it was impossible, so the troops were called in. The Manchester and Salford Yeomanry reacted first, charging into a crowd of more than 60,000, before the regular soldiers arrived and left 15 people dead and more than 600 injured.
The immediate effect was further government repression but the long-term influence was one of disenchantment with the existing electoral system – a key step towards modern democracy.
There is no better way to learn about this crucial event in British history than by visiting the site where it happened. Not only will your knowledgeable and experienced tour guide walk you around the key locations where the events of that day unfolded – they’ll bring history to life. Expect powerful words, poetry and a contemporary context in which to make sense of the events of that day – all working towards a better understanding of a moment that helped shape the future of the nation.
“If you want Peterloo explained with verve, wit and real knowledge then this the easily the best tour around” - Marple Historical Society.
Highlights
- Visit the key locations where the events of The Peterloo Massacre unfolded
- Hear your guide bring the day’s events to life through powerful words, poetry and a contemporary context
- Learn about William Hulton and other prominent figures in this dark story
- Get a better understanding of not only the day’s events, but the political changes they led to
What's included
- Walking tour led by a knowledgeable and experienced tour guide
- Food and drink
- Transportation to and from the walking tour
- Umbrellas
Cancellation policy
You may cancel or modify your booking up to 24 hours before the event start time for a full refund.
