All places on the map· Manchester
Manchester Central Library
Sight4.6 · 1 2744.5 · 1 152≈ 1 h 8 minFree entry
Facing St Peter's Square, Manchester's civic library is an architectural masterwork designed by E. Vincent Harris and officially opened by King George V in 1934. Deriving its circular colonnaded rotunda form from Rome's ancient Pantheon, the landmark holds the magnificent Wolfson Reading Room beneath a soaring acoustic dome known for its whisper effect. Downstairs, Shakespeare Hall dazzles visitors with vibrant heritage stained glass.
Highlights
- The circular Wolfson Reading Room beneath a dramatic acoustic dome
- Monumental neoclassical rotunda design inspired by Rome's Pantheon
- Shakespeare Hall featuring exquisite heritage stained glass and coats of arms
Opening hours
| Mon | 09:00 – 20:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 09:00 – 20:00 |
| Wed | 09:00 – 20:00 |
| Thu | 09:00 – 20:00 |
| Fri | 09:00 – 17:00 |
| Sat | 09:00 – 17:00 |
| Sun | Closed |
What’s nearby
Manchester Art Gallery
3 min walk · 229 m
4.6
Town Hall Tavern Manchester
3 min walk · 243 m
4.3
St Mary's - The Hidden Gem
3 min walk · 248 m
Chinatown
3 min walk · 274 m
Deansgate
4 min walk · 309 m
4.5
Bridgewater Hall is a concert venue in Manchester.
4 min walk · 324 m
The John Rylands Library
4 min walk · 353 m
4.8
Cross Street Chapel
5 min walk · 391 m
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