Chorlton-on-Medlock in Manchester in Greater Manchester, England, United Kingdom — Northwestern Europe (the British Isles)
Bicentenary Way
A space at the heart of our campus to recognise and reflect.
Created in 2024 as part of The University of Manchester’s 200th year celebrations, Bicentenary Way tells the story of our origins, our innovations and the people behind them since 1824.
The installation recognises key figures and groups who have made an inspirational contribution to the life of the University and to society more generally. They include our Nobel laureates and other pioneers in their fields, those who drove social progress by breaking boundaries, distinguished alumni and our founding institutions.
Located in Brunswick Park and opposite the Queen’s Arch, Bicentenary Way nestles among the University buildings where these remarkable people studied and worked; where their curiosity was sparked, life-changing connections made, and ideas seeded.
Link to the past
Our history is rich with stories of remarkable people who exemplify our motto of “knowledge, wisdom and humanity”, the Latin inscription of which — Cognitio Sapientia Humanitas — appears at the base of our crest, featured throughout the installation.
Alongside recognisable historical figures, the installation also features those who, though perhaps lesser known, embody our values and community spirit, and have shown what it means to make a difference.
Use the QR code to learn more about these people and their stories.
Look to the future
As the University’s third century unfolds, we will be adding to Bicentenary Way, ensuring our greatest asset — our people — continue to be celebrated and are forever connected with our campus and city.
About Brunswick Park
Bicentenary Way sits within Brunswick Park, the largest green space on campus — open to staff, students, visitors and our local community. The park is a central hub and a place to gather, offering seating areas, cycle paths and space for events.
Formerly Brunswick Street, this area was extensively redeveloped in 2018 thanks to the generosity of alumnus Sam Chan (BA Hons Economics, 1970). Motivated by a desire to create a space on campus to be used and enjoyed by all, Sam’s transformational gift has left an indelible mark on the landscape of The University of Manchester.
Erected 2024 by The University of Manchester.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Education • Parks & Recreational Areas. A significant historical year for this entry is 1824.
Location. 53° 27.946′ N, 2° 13.976′ W. Marker is in Manchester, England, in Greater Manchester. It is in Chorlton-on-Medlock. It is at the intersection of Oxford Road and Brunswick Street, on the right when traveling north on Oxford Road. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 202 Oxford Road, Manchester, England M13 9PL, United Kingdom. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in North West England. Globally, it is on the Atlantic Ocean, in the North Atlantic Region, in Europe, in Atlantic Europe, on one of the British Isles, in the Western
World, and in the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Roman Empire.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Infected Blood Inquiry Memorial (within shouting distance of this marker); The Whitworth Hall (within shouting distance of this marker); Ernest Lord Rutherford (within shouting distance of this marker); The Beyer Building (within shouting distance of this marker); Marie Stopes (about 90 meters away, measured in a direct line); The University of Manchester World War I Memorial (about 90 meters away); The University of Manchester World War II Memorial (about 90 meters away); Ellen Wilkinson (about 90 meters away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Manchester.
Also see . . . Bicentenary Way (The University of Manchester).
The installation, located in Brunswick Park and opposite the Queen’s Arch, recognises key figures and groups who have made an inspirational contribution to the life of the University and to society more generally. Alongside recognisable historical figures, it also features those who, though perhaps lesser known, embody our values and community spirit, and have shown what it means to make a difference.(Submitted on October 31, 2026, by Ian Lefkowitz of New York, New York.)
Credits. This page was last revised on October 31, 2026. It was originally submitted on October 31, 2026, by Ian Lefkowitz of New York, New York. This page has been viewed 10 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on October 31, 2026, by Ian Lefkowitz of New York, New York. • Andrew Ruppenstein was the editor who published this page.


