See & do · Landmarks & architecture
John Rylands Library
Opening hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Images provided by Google Places
Neo-gothic library (part of University of Manchester) with rare books & manuscripts, a cafe & shop.via Google
A jaw-dropping neo-gothic library that looks like a cathedral, housing rare books and illuminated manuscripts.
- Good to know
- Free entry. Quiet zones must be respected; do not miss the historic reading room.
Reviews from Google
John Dylan’s Library in Manchester is absolutely beautiful. I was awestruck the moment I walked in. The old architecture, high ceilings, and shelves full of books give it such a magical feel. Best part: there’s no entry fee, though they do encourage donations and it’s 100% worth supporting. Heads up, it’s quite famous so waiting times can get long, especially on weekends. Still, don’t let that stop you. A must-visit if you love books or history! At the end of the corridor there are benches to sit. Lift available to take you to some parts, rest you have to climb up.
Went to this library with my friend previously, very astonished to see the lovely architecture and design of the place. Also there is a mini bay with a modern building right beside it, yet they were blended together very well. The differences and blending of both buildings are just fascinating. Again, our visit is just magically enhanced by the rare but welcomed sunshine. Took such great photos because of it as it shows how beautiful the stained glass windows are ♥️✨
What a wonderful library to visit! Expect a 20mins waiting in the queue outside but it well worth the experience. The beauty of the historical books and the interior of the building is breathtaking - for me at least. The photos don't show the real truth. Entrance is free of charge. No food or drinks can be purchased or consumed inside the building.
The building itself is totally stunning, when built it cost a million pound to construct which in today's money equates 100 million and you can certainly see why with the attention to detail throughout the building. It could easily pass as a cathedral such is the standard of ornate workmanship throughout the library. And then we get to the actual books which are standalone, some dating back to the 16th century right up to modern releases. There are also plenty of exhibitions within the separate parts of the library of which I found the one on the cotton trade Very interesting. All in all a great way to spend a few hours or just use the many reading rooms available to the public. I also noticed a few guided tours while in there where everyone seemed to be enjoying.
Probably the most beautiful library in the UK! I didn't know what to expect so I was speechless. The entrance is free and you can wander freely around the historical part of the library. It is a bit like stepping inside Hogwarts for me. The gothic architecture is beautiful with the corridors, staircase and of course the main library. It's a huge cathedral with a library inside with historical books. Some of them are exposed if you want to have a look. You can also sit down to appreciate the beauty, study or work. There are tables and desks available for everyone. If I was nearby I would have love working here for a day. Sounds magical! If you visit Manchester you can't miss this place. It's really the best thing to do in the city.