Nestled among the glitzy bars and fancy restaurants along Deansgate is one of Manchester’s best-kept secrets. The John Rylands Library is a stunning neo-gothic building which transports visitors to a different time.
Standing in stark contrast to the glass building beside it, the red sandstone structure features an ornately detailed exterior which could rival any church or cathedral. But the grandeur doesn’t end there, when you step inside you’ll enter a different world which feels like a scene from Harry Potter.
Leaving the buzz of the city behind you’ll come across the magnificent reading room, a huge space with a vaulted ceiling, full of architectural details including statues of notable writers. The room is overlooked by the Lantern Gallery, with lamps placed along the stone arches providing an oldie-worldie atmosphere. As you wander around, it's hard to believe you're just metres away from one of the city's busiest streets.
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There are alcoves which lead off from the main hall, forming cosy study spaces, while a huge stained glass window provides a focal point. The library contains several rooms which house its impressive collection, which includes illuminated mediaeval manuscripts and the oldest known piece of the New Testament, the St John Fragment.
Visitors enter the library via a modern entrance, which leads to a cloister-like corridor. This takes you to the original main entrance and the impressive staircase, which even has a balcony - perfect for a photo opportunity. You can also use the original Victorian toilets found down the stairs from the entrance hall.
The building was founded by Enriqueta Augustina Rylands in memory of her husband John Rylands and it opened to the public in 1900. It became part of the University of Manchester Library in 1972.
The John Rylands Library has received the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice 2022 award and it is listed as the top third thing to do in Manchester. It’s received rave reviews from visitors and it’s easy to see why as the library is such a unique place in the city.
Tanya L described it as “a definite must in Manchester” while JohnMcCheshire wrote “you have to go there”. One reviewer, LCAF, called it “a splendid jewel in Manchester’s crown.” If this wasn't enough to convince you, it's completely free to visit too.
The John Rylands Library is open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm. For more information click here.
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