I stumbled upon this place many years ago and recently returned. It looks a little like a gothic church from the outside. Inside it is a wonderful building, with vaulted ceilings, columns and embellished with decorative stone details. Lighting exentuates the shapes. The books are behind plexiglass but you still get a great sense of the overall experience. I found myself captivated by the array of sizes and different book spines. There was a well curated exhibition running when we visited. This gave a glimpse into some of the books Overall, it's a quiet place, as you'd expect from a library. There are lifts and it seemed like accessibility had been considered. Staff were welcoming and engaging. There can be queues to enter at certain times of the day.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Lovely place to visit, especially if it's raining or you want to soak up some culture. If you like architecture, then this is your place to come as there is plenty of opportunity to take photos. Also, if you are a keen photographer, this place is awesome to take photos, but baring mind, it can be busy at times, and you can't use a tripod or a flash on your camera. I would also say if you like your history then another reason to come here I'm sure the staff are able to answer your questions. They are approachable and willing to help you with your questions, etc, as they are very friendly and don't mind you asking questions. There are various rooms you can visit and in particular exhibitions too. I love coming here to remind me of what a lovely place we have.

I went for the first time on Friday and it was such an amazing experience, when I first looked down the halls I was in awe. The facts dotted around are great. The gift shop robbed me 70 quid but I got a beautiful dracula book (still haven't started reading it though) Definitely visit if you are in the town centre, I didn't realise how close it was until I actually went. No booking required and it's free to enter. (Also, waterstones is nearby and is a great shop and is 3 floors.)
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I really enjoyed the John Ryland's library. It is a real beautiful building and it is worthy just to go there for seeing it inside. The historical reading room is amazing! There are even places for you to take pictures with old clothes and hats. But for me the most important thing was to be able to see old manuscripts like Biblical John and deutoronomy manuscripts. John's manuscripts is the oldest being very close to when the original one was written and there are no changes between our bibles today and this writing

The most beautiful building i have had the pleasure of stepping in, in Manchester! I took my 7 year old daughter as she loves to learn, she was in her element, 1000s of books some centuries old! There is plenty to see over several floors (lift access) but if you are able take the stairs they are stunning. It reminded us of hogwarts! There is a lovely shop and cafe at the entrance too. Entrance is free but they accept donations (although they dont pressure you into like other places on Manchester)

IS STUNNING! Must visit now! 1 it's free of charge 2 they have a limited amount of person that can get in so that tou can have room for moving and talking pictures 3 Toilets available 4 atmosphere is sublime. Cozy light guide you through the library creating a very Howards atmosphere 5 you can fo and study there with no problem 6 there is also a cute shop there. 7 staff is super friendly and ready to help. You can see that they like working there What else to add to convince you going there??

One of the finest buildings in Manchester. Gothic style with modern extension done sympathetically to bring you in from Deansgate. Built to the highest standards and opened in 1900 it has been a library from day one and although envisaged as a lending library it is now a reference library only but anyone can register. The interior is almost cathedral like in nature and the attention to detail and level of craftsmanship is phenomenal. Often likened to Hogwarts and easy to see why if you visit.

Incredible library, mate! It's like stepping into history itself. The building alone is worth a visit, and the collection of documents inside is mind-blowing. Seriously, it's awesome! And hey, as a newbie foreign student from China with limited English, it's been a bit challenging, but this place has been a real gem for me. Can't wait to dive into all the cool resources they have. Highly recommended!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Wandering amidst the neo-Gothic splendor of the John Rylands Library, a marvel that first opened its doors in 1900. Each stone whispers tales from centuries past, a testament to a time where architecture met art. This incredible treasure-trove, right in the heart of Manchester, has not only cradled wisdom for over a century but also served as a backdrop for – yes, it's a Harry Potter filming location!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Please, include this library/museum in your visit to Manchester. It’s commonly used to film images that remind Westminster but also Victorian times for the beautiful architecture. In the main room, ease take one of the mirrors and take a moment to see the roof; it's just shocking. This is a secret hidden inside Manchester, with lots of history, is free to visit and if you even needed, you can ask to review the books that they have because after all, it's a library.

I visited this small museum specifically to view the fragment of St. John's gospel from the dead sea scrolls. According to sources, it is the oldest fragment of the New Testament in the world. If you are interested in litratary history or indeed the Bible I would recommend a visit if you find yourself in Manchester. It is free admission but quite a small building. However the architecture is nice and surprisingly it was never a church.

A very majestic building with a rich history. The tour was short and lovely and the library itself, although not quite that big, is filled with artifacts and information that makes time fly by. The neo-gothic interior is definitely something to look at. There wasn't any entry fee and there's a small gift shop filled with cute accessories.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

An excellent Neo Gothic sand stone building housing the John Rylands library collection. People can join and able to read on request the books therein. Regular tours are available (book in advance) both general and behind the scenes where you gain privilege access to the book depository in the cellars that have glass floors and the upper reading rooms. Staff are helpful and informative. The tours are well worth booking.

Really spectacular place. I was here for hours yesterday - just sitting on the tables with my laptop. It’s one of the best places to be in Manchester. You get a sense of great focus and concentration here when you’re surrounded by all these ancient books. The library is like something out of Harry Potter. Beautiful from every angle.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

An astonishingly beautiful location right in the centre of Manchester, a place to breathe and have a refreshing break from the shopping adventures on the streets outside (although there's a neat little store in here too). The location is just extraordinary and with a changing rota of shows definitely worth returning to. It's free and inspiring and thoroughly recommended! And there's a cafe if you fancy a cuppa too.

An old public library with beautiful neo-gothic and Victorian architecture. The library was opened in 1900 and currently part of University of Manchester. It was founded by Enriqueta Rylands in memory of her husband John Rylands. The library contains collections of rare books and old manuscript. The ambient atmosphere with amazing scenery is the main attraction point of this place. Entrance fee is free of charge.

A wonderful story! A truly marvelous place!!! A real working library with some of the rarest books on the planet! Our children were amazed at the treasures in the book shop downstairs. Wheelchair friendly throughout the building and the staff were most patient, informative and careful to point out certain features. It's been on our bucket list for a while and I'm so glad we put it on our priority list this time!

Beautiful place if you like the atmosphere of a library. Impressive building and excellent conservation. Entrance is free and you have a coffee and a shop inside. I recommend you to visit also the toilets. Don't miss this place if you like to be peacefully surrounded by books. You can also sit there and read or work with your computer. They take care of the details here. A 5 treasure from my point of view

Beautiful building to have a wander in. We visited during an exhibition on Dante, and there was also an interesting selection of items highlighted from the library contents including Japanese culture, Jewish history, and midwifery. The central hall was stunning, and the exhibition inside described how the building came to be. A few students working inside, and friendly and helpful staff. Well worth a visit.

Great library to be visited while in Manchester. The design is amazing and support much history lays into it. Inside is wonderful and has many great historical items you are allowed to look at. Entrance is completely for free and library is op-ed every day of the week but only between Christmas and New Year is closed. Don't hesitate and check out this library, it's one thing to see once you in Manchester.

This is not so much a 'working library' during the day which is probably best as it allows the visitor to walk around knowing that they are not disturbing others. A beautiful building, hard to believe it wasn't a church. There are several displays on the theme of books (unsurprisingly). Free to enter and it's location means that it's easy to visit. The contrast of old and new outside is also impressive.

It's an absolutely beautiful place, one of my favorites in the city. The architecture is gorgeous, and genuinely makes me miss the days where buildings themselves were works of art. The vibes it has are great, and you can sit inside to study too. Gets busy throughout the day but you're usually left alone.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Free neo-gothic library associated with University of Manchester - great collection of knowledge, with display items, benches / tables for study, and facilities. Connected you enter through the side shop and can see many great copies of classic books
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Located tlin the center of Manchester, this represent one of the best place you should visit here. A full immersion in history of this city. Ancient library with a unique books, you could be lucky enough to get a free example of how to stamp in ancient way. Highly recommended. You can also study there because it is still a library.

I'd advise anyone with an interest in history, literature or architecture to visit the John Rylands Library. The staff are very pleasant, the building is immaculate and retains an authentic feel, and the exhibitions are updated frequently enough to hold a return visitor's interest.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

I was amazed by the beauty of this Library. Words cannot describe it. Just go and feel the magic. You lucky people studying in Manchester and have access to such a wonderful retreat away from the noise of the city. A real Gem to find on a day trip. Google photos and Map - Easy walking to find from Manchester Piccadilly Station.

It's a historical library at the heart of Manchester that may remind you Harry Potter movie. It has been built in 3 floors and there is quiet study place in its spectacular main hall to read a novel, do your projects or work with your laptop.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Such an incredible place so much history and so well kept. Lots of old books very well preserved. People at the reception very polite and friendly. Very well located within walking distance from the train station, Manchester Piccadilly. In my opinion this place is one of the ones to visit without a doubt.

Great neo-gothic architecture in the Victorian built part. The extension is also worth a few minutes, modern But attractive as well. The library is filled with collections of old books & special exhibitions too. An easy place to find in the centre of Manchester & not to be missed. Free entry.

A must see! And I would say… stay! The building is so full os detail and beauty. It invites you to pick a table and read, study or just feel quiet wonderful place. Full of historic books and explanations about printing. For you out there who love books and libraries it’s well worth a visit.

Perfect representation of the city, old and new combined into one. The Library has great architecture inside and out, and it was worth the time to explore. The entrance was free. I recommend visiting.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Superb place open free to the public combining past and modernity... The various historical objects presented are magnificent. We have young people who were studying upstairs amidst thousands of books. you just need audioguides for foreign visitors (who don't speak English very well)

Beautiful, ornate Edwardian Library. Not as old as it looks. Started in 1900 in Gothic Style. Staff fabulous. Had an interesting talk from a knowlable and articulate member of start. Such a fabulous collection of old books, about 1.4 million in total. Such a treasure for Manchester!

What an iconic library. The more I look up, the more spectacular it is. Beautiful corridors and statues. Such an amazing time in the library. It would be great to put up signs of "silence" because I saw people studying and families who kept talking out loud in the same room.

Amazing building and my children were treated to some wonderful and fun explanations from Andrew, one of the librarians. We especially came to see the fragment of the Gospel of John.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Wow, what a place. The building is incredible in its architecture and contents, the library and exhibitions are stunning. The walls seem to ooze a sense of the interesting and important discoveries that no doubt have been made here. Very much worth a visit

Possibly my most favorite place in Manchester :) beautiful architecture, the sence of antiquity just breaths on you. Entrance is free and you can just go in and study as many of our ancestors would have Just the staff is quite rude, so try to avoid them

Beautiful building, historic display but I’m not personally into it. I assume it would be a good place for history fans. The library is nice and you can feel free to study there. I would recommend this.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

What a surprise this building is i loved exploring inside and took some amazing photo's. Loved looking at all the books but with them being such a age they are all in cabinets which is understandable. Lovely gift shop too! Well worth a visit AND free!

Soaking up the atmosphere of the The John Rylands library at Spinning Fields, Manchester. It's not just a historical site but a living momument by the founders, one which continues to foster inquiry, education and dvancement.
Wait time
No wait

The architecture is stunning and beautiful. I visited this library because I’m Harry Potter fan but turn out that it’s more than that as I’m so impressed with building and structure. Highly recommended if you visit Manchester as a must to see. More

I was so happy in this library, I just didn't want to leave! It was absolutely beautiful inside. I loved that I could be so close to these old books and even take photos with them. I love the natural dark lighting and the stunning stone structures.

Fantastic place - can't believe I've lived in Manchester for 2 years and never discovered it! A must see and it's free! You can come and work - they have sockets
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Massive Library and very old books and machines. Anyone can go and study and can also have a membership for free. It takes you centuries back. Highly recommended
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Another cool place. Very nice building. If you are in a hurry take the elevator to the third floor which is the big reading room and that is the thing you should see. Also the gift shop is nice with a special selection of gifts and books. …

Beautiful architecture and detailed stonework. Very organised in terms of numbers allowed in, wasn't as big as I thought it was but still impressive. A nice exhibition on journalism and cute shop. Cafe is closed and there is no luggage storage.

It's a reasonably well presented exhibition in a lovely old library. Not quite the same awe factor as the cathedral or Chetham's, but definitely worth a visit.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Never been in this library while I was a student here in 90”s. Eventually went in today. An eye-opening place which was built so well and keep nicely. Live it
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

We visited the library because the architecture looked beautiful but just happened to arrive when a tour was starting. Jack was our tour host and was really engaging and knowledgeable, if you can get a tour with him (it's free) then you are

Great library in the middle of Manchester. It's quite short to get through (<1 hour) but the views inside are pretty amazing. Tucked away and easy to miss if you aren't looking for it. I bet a lot of local people haven't visited it because

What a great experience. Thank you to Jacob for showing us how much one of those big books weigh and explaining how book printing changed everything.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Amazing library. I bring my laptop and its like Harry Potter vibes. People here More to visiting rather than study. Good and nice environment☺️
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
No

Stunning building, well worth the visit. Had a great tour by Gabby - informative and entertaining. Great stop on your way through Manchester.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

An amazing space right inside the city centre, you can spend hours here reading the names and titles of the massive collections of books in the libraries reading rooms. Regular changes to exhibits also keep you coming back.

One of the most beautiful libraries I've ever seen. And I've seen quite a few. Added bonus of having all the books locked behind plexiglass... thus you have a built in excuse for not reading them. What more could you want?

You need not know anything about books to appreciate the architecture of this historic building, however if you are a bookworm, all the more reason to not miss out on the treasures these walls have stored for centuries.

A wonderful place. An active old library who had kept is ancient look. Long wall of book,callm and serenity. Maiby an HP looklike but its a really plesant place. In bonus, the ancient toilet are always functionnal.

One of the world’s most beautiful libraries I have ever visited. It’s literally one of those places where you look it up online and it turns out to be even better than the photos. A must visit for anyone in town.

Stunningly beautiful building in Manchester. Free entry into this library, the gothic architecture is stunning and the old books in the library are beautifully preserved. Well worth a visit to this little gem !!

Such a beautiful space. Free to enter, great place to take photos and look at old rare books in the heart of Manchester.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Nicely done renovation and worth a quick visit if you are nearby. Doesn't make 4/5 stars as I probably wouldn't go out of my way to see it. Nice to see the old printing presses and the historic toilets!

Beautiful library, really interesting architecture and lots of really old (and big) books. Well layed out. It's supposedly active, but I didn't see any students working at any of the desks

A lovely building with some amazing looking books. Only wish I had more time to look around and maybe read a book for an hour or two.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

Spectacular architecture, a must see when in Manchester. The exhibit about the city’s links to slave trade and cotton industry is interesting. They should however charge for entrance

Great architecture and ambience. Well worth a visit and located conveniently near town centre.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Old library. One of the best place to take good photos. You can buy some books and gifts here
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

amazing place with great architecture and history. Highly recommend a visit in Manchester.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Beautiful library. They had helpers there that were very quick to answer questions and help us out. Unfortunately the bathrooms were out and I hear they are worth visiting.

It was close temporary when I visited. So just saw it from outside. Liked the exterior of building, and also on deans gate so you can visit it during any time of day.

fantastic atmosphere, seems like I really went to hogwarts in Harry Potter
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

One of Manchester's must-see places, especially if you're a Harry Potter fan. Gorgeous architecture and lots of history. It's actually a working library as well.

Visited an exhibition on the Peterloo massacre, but its worth visiting to see its gothic structure. Makes up for not being able to get into Manchester town hall.

An amazing must see for bibliophiles and fans of Gothic Revival architecture. One can feel the warping effect of L-space as the building takes you back in time.

Beautiful architecture! Smelled like books Great sight to visit.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Old, historical library with a stunning architecture. You can feel the Harry Potter and Hogwarts vibe here. One of the must-visit places in Manchester.

Fantastic mystery place with a free entrance definitely recommend it a second time per year coming to the library and second-time balcony is closed :(

check opening times - it’s closed Sunday, monday& tuesday , hence our 4 day trip to manchester did not include its main attraction disappointing …

Very cool library super curious how that feels like studying here while so many tourists just walk around next to them and take photos …

Great space to study...beautiful and very peaceful
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

One of the best libraries I have seen!! Its beautiful architecture gives full Harry Potter vibes. A must place to visit in Manchester.

Stunning old building, well worth a visit.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Such a wonderful place to visit. It was interesting to see the connection with the modern parts and the historical ones.

Amazing place! Thanks Andrew for all the information you shared and also for ideas of other places to see in the city!

Beautiful library , cute shop.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Great library, worth a visit
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Worth a visit to know the history . Well kept library, free & quick access ; worth the time spent at the library!

Wonderful place. I really like so old and cultural places. This one is good example. Very interesting exebision.

So glad we found time to visit, absolutely stunning place and free entry. Not much to say aside from go! …

Worth a visit! Free entry
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I love this building, always try to come when it is quieter to enjoy the reading room
Visited on…
More

The architecture on display is stunning. A fantastic place to visit and just take in the wonderful sights.

Free to Entry (Donation encouraged), great study halls. You can enter to read and study all year long.

One of the oldest library in Manchester, you can bring your book and read here as well

Incredibly incredible...Worth a visit from book lovers to architecture fans :)

Probably my favourite building in Manchester, it's even more amazing inside.

Such a stunningly beautiful library. The architecture is amazing

Absolutely stunning building and library. Really worth a visit

Great historic library
Visited on
Weekday…
More

Worth checking out the guided tour, lots of history!

Fantastic historical building