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The John Rylands Library is one of Manchester’s hidden gems. It’s located on Deansgate and with the towering modern buildings of Spinningfields right next to it, these days it’s easy to walk past without noticing it.
But you are missing a trick if you don’t pop in and explore this gorgeous slice of Mancunian history.
The John Rylands Library was founded in memory of Manchester industrialist John Rylands, who embodied the innovation that made the city famous. When he died in 1888, he had a personal fortune of £2.75 million.
His wife Enriqueta commissioned the library in 1890 and in 1900, this masterpiece of gothic architecture was opened to the people of Manchester.
From the outside, you could be forgiven for thinking that this is a church rather than a library, but it houses some remarkable artifacts, in addition to an incredible collection of rare books.
It’s now known as the John Rylands Research Institute and Library and it forms part of the University of Manchester.
Before we talk about the exhibits, we have to mention the architecture. The church-like theme continues in the main library building, where large archways, intricate stone carvings and even stained glass windows all add to the sense of grandeur.
There are tables and seats within the main library area that you are welcome to use, so it’s a good place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a break if you need one.
In addition, there’s an exhibition space that showcases some of the most fascinating items from the library’s extensive collection. To mark the 125th anniversary of its opening in 2025, two new exhibitions were opened.
Among the items on display are Shakespeare’s first folio, a parchment role signed by Elizabeth I and notes made by Alan Turing about the Mark 1 computer. There is also an exhibition dedicated to Manchester’s cotton industry.
If you’re interested in learning about the city’s industrial past, our Cottonopolis Tour will be right up your street.
No! Visiting the library is completely free and you can walk in during its opening hours (which are Wednesday to Saturday, from 10am to 5pm). If it’s particularly busy, you might have to queue for a short time.
Given its location in the heart of the city, it’s the perfect stop on a longer tour of Manchester.
There are some fantastic Manchester food and drink gems located within an easy walk of the John Rylands Library. Around the corner, tucked away near the river, is Fenix, which offers a twist on traditional Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.
With both set menus and à la carte menus available, it’s the perfect place to refuel before continuing your exploration of the city.
Around the corner from Fenix is another excellent spot if you’re looking for a cocktail – the Project Halcyon Distillery. With an ever-changing roster of seasonal cocktails alongside the classics, you can’t go wrong if you pop in for a drink here.
It’s worth noting that the distillery is only open Thursday to Sunday, so make sure you time your visit right!
A short walk in the other direction, towards Oxford Street, will bring you to one of Manchester’s quirkiest bars – The Temple (Temple of Convenience). This bar is located in a converted Victorian public toilet.
It is as tiny as it sounds, but it serves up a fantastic selection of beers and is a must-visit if you’re into your ales.
Another must-visit drinking spot in this part of the city is the Peveril of the Peak, one of the city’s most iconic pubs. The exterior is covered in green tiles, making it easy to spot. Inside you’ll find a cosy and welcoming bar that’s drenched in history.
If you don’t want to try to navigate the twists and turns of Manchester’s streets alone, but you do want to seek out some of the city’s best bars and eateries, booking a Manchester food walking tour could be the way to go.
We offer a range of food and drink tours in the city that will take you to some of the most iconic, and best hidden, spots in town. Along the way, we’ll share details of Manchester’s fascinating history, giving you an insight into how it’s become such a cultural melting pot and foodie hotspot in the North West.
