Sackville Park, Fairfield St, Manchester M1 3HB
Alan Turing Memorial
The Alan Turing Memorial, situated in Sackville Gardens in Manchester, England, is a sculpture in memory of Alan Turing, a pioneer of modern computing. Turing is believed to have taken his own life in 1954, two years after being convicted of gross indecency.
Location
About
If you're visiting Manchester, England, you may want to take a moment to visit the Alan Turing Memorial Sculpture. This tribute to the legendary computer scientist and mathematician is located in Sackville Gardens, just a short walk from the city center. Here's what you need to know about this fascinating and thought-provoking monument.
Alan Turing is perhaps best known for his work cracking the German Enigma code during World War II, which is estimated to have shortened the war by several years. However, his contributions to the field of computer science and artificial intelligence were groundbreaking and continue to be felt today. Unfortunately, Turing's life was cut short when he was convicted of homosexuality in 1952, a crime at the time, and subjected to chemical castration. He died two years later, at the age of just 41.
The Alan Turing Memorial Sculpture was unveiled in 2001, more than 40 years after his death. The bronze statue depicts Turing sitting on a bench, with an apple on his lap - a nod to the story that he committed suicide by biting into a cyanide-laced apple. The sculpture was designed by Glyn Hughes and crafted by Rowan Gillespie. It's a powerful and moving tribute to a man who played such an important role in modern history, but who was treated so unjustly during his lifetime.
When you visit the Alan Turing Memorial Sculpture, you'll find a tranquil and peaceful spot in the midst of bustling Manchester. Sackville Gardens is a lovely green space with plenty of benches and places to relax, and the sculpture itself is a popular spot for photos. You'll often see visitors sitting next to Turing on the bench, or laying flowers at his feet in tribute.
One thing to be aware of when visiting the Alan Turing Memorial Sculpture is that it's located in a popular area for Manchester's LGBTQ+ community. The Gay Village, with its bars, clubs, and restaurants, is just a stone's throw away. While this can make for a lively and vibrant atmosphere, it's important to be respectful of the area and its inhabitants.
Overall, the Alan Turing Memorial Sculpture is a must-visit spot for anyone interested in history, computer science, or LGBTQ+ rights. It's a beautiful and poignant tribute to a remarkable man, and a reminder of the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect. So the next time you're in Manchester, be sure to take a moment to visit this important and moving memorial.
Gallery
Things to do nearby
Alan Turing Memorial is a must-visit destination for tourists visiting Manchester, UK. The Memorial is located in Sackville Park, which is just a stone's throw away from the city center. It commemorates the life and work of Alan Turing, the famous mathematician and computer scientist who played a pivotal role in cracking the Enigma code during World War II.
While visiting the Alan Turing Memorial, there are plenty of nearby places and things to do that can enhance your experience. Here are some of the top picks:
1. Manchester Museum
Located just a 10-minute walk from the Alan Turing Memorial, the Manchester Museum is a treasure trove of natural history exhibits, including a vast collection of Egyptian artifacts. It's a great place to spend a few hours and learn about the world we live in.
2. Canal Street
Just a stone's throw from the Alan Turing Memorial is Canal Street, Manchester's famous gay village. It's a vibrant and welcoming area, packed with bars, restaurants, and clubs. The area is also famous for its colorful street art, so be sure to keep your camera handy.
3. The Palace Theatre
If you're looking for some evening entertainment, then head over to the Palace Theatre, which is just a 15-minute walk from the Memorial. The theater hosts a variety of productions, including musicals, plays, and stand-up comedy shows. It's a great way to spend a night out in Manchester.
4. Manchester Art Gallery
The Manchester Art Gallery is another cultural gem that's just a 15-minute walk from the Alan Turing Memorial. The gallery houses an extensive collection of artwork, ranging from contemporary pieces to historic masterpieces. Admission is free, so it's definitely worth a visit.
5. The Northern Quarter
Finally, no visit to Manchester would be complete without a trip to the Northern Quarter. It's a vibrant and trendy area, packed with independent shops, cafes, and bars. It's a great place to grab a bite to eat or a drink, and soak up the local culture.
In conclusion, the Alan Turing Memorial is an essential stop for any tourist visiting Manchester. It's a great way to learn about the life and work of one of the most important figures in modern computing. And with so many nearby places and things to do, you'll never be short of ways to fill your time.
Opening Hours
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
|---|---|
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |