We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

John Rylands Library

150 Deansgate, Manchester, England (Manchester City Centre)
Update attraction details
Ranked #1 of 103 attractions in Manchester
Type: Libraries, Museums, Architectural Buildings
Fee: No
Recommended length of visit: 2-3 hours
Description: The University Library of Manchester provides an extensive range of services and resources to actual and virtual visitors.
Write a Review

486 reviews from our community

Visitor rating
    348
    124
    12
    2
    0
Date Rating
Bethesda, Maryland
Senior Reviewer
10 reviews 10 reviews
5 attraction reviews
Reviews in 6 cities Reviews in 6 cities
7 helpful votes 7 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed June 17, 2013 NEW

I wondered how one of the biggest attractions in Manchester could be a library. Yet it was quite an interesting place and there is no charge (donations accepted). Don't miss the beautiful stained glass windows along the corridor. The main reading room is stunning.

Was this review helpful? Yes 2
Perth, Australia
Top Contributor
64 reviews 64 reviews
7 attraction reviews
Reviews in 34 cities Reviews in 34 cities
22 helpful votes 22 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed June 17, 2013 NEW

The library is amazing, the oldest library in an english speaking country in the world. As you wander around there are books on the shelves dating back to the 1500s, we asked one of the staff what the oldest article would be and she said there were some exhibits over 1000 years old which were papyrus scrolls from the Middle... More

Was this review helpful? Yes 2
Contributor
11 reviews 11 reviews
Reviews in 7 cities Reviews in 7 cities
5 helpful votes 5 helpful votes
3 of 5 stars Reviewed June 16, 2013 NEW

John Rylands library is a beautiful building which is worth a visit by anyone. We went for lunch in its cafe on Saturday. The service was good and the menu selection fair for a library cafe. BUT, it was very quiet when we attended and none at the other tables had ordered food I front of us, we had to... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
Loudun
Top Contributor
73 reviews 73 reviews
39 attraction reviews
Reviews in 25 cities Reviews in 25 cities
25 helpful votes 25 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed June 14, 2013 NEW

This Gothic building is located right in the centre of Deansgate, a very busy Manchester thoroughfare with shops and restaurants. Don't pass by this gem. You have to go inside from the side - from the front with railings it may look as if it is closed. They have very cleverly integrated a modern part with the cafe and giftshop... More

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
See 14 more reviews by Babsstockport for Manchester
London, United Kingdom
Senior Contributor
35 reviews 35 reviews
21 attraction reviews
Reviews in 9 cities Reviews in 9 cities
10 helpful votes 10 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed June 14, 2013 NEW

This library is a must see for anyone visiting Manchester. The gothic architecture is amazing and makes it like no libary you've seen before. It's free and you can wander round to your heart's content.

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
See 5 more reviews by rodrick a for Manchester
Derry
Contributor
18 reviews 18 reviews
5 attraction reviews
Reviews in 11 cities Reviews in 11 cities
6 helpful votes 6 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed June 12, 2013

No 1 must to visit in Manchester. Walking from the the New build to the Old building was astounding, it stopped me on my feet! The Library was amazing. I would recommend this place of Interest to everyone! It's free to visit and there's is a lovely coffee shop on the ground flloor

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
See 2 more reviews by RoseyDerry for Manchester
London, United Kingdom
Senior Contributor
23 reviews 23 reviews
10 attraction reviews
Reviews in 15 cities Reviews in 15 cities
5 helpful votes 5 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed June 9, 2013

Excellent building and the reading rooms inside are just magnificent. It brings you back to the olden days, the visit was almost like a journey into a different world. Everyone enjoyed this visit, including my young boys ! A must do family activity.

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
See 2 more reviews by k1deiva for Manchester
Manchester, United Kingdom
Contributor
15 reviews 15 reviews
3 attraction reviews
Reviews in 11 cities Reviews in 11 cities
26 helpful votes 26 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed June 8, 2013 via mobile

Beautiful building. The reading room is like something out of Harry potter. Went to see Gutenberg bible but was told it is only brought out on rare occations. Still worth visiting.

Was this review helpful? Yes
Leeds
1 review
5 of 5 stars Reviewed June 7, 2013

I am lucky enough to work near John Rylands Library and have been in several time, the only thing that out does the outside is when you enter, stunning windows and a real atmosphere. With a visit, forget the football grounds and get yourself there. Bill

Was this review helpful? Yes
Sydney, Australia
Top Contributor
53 reviews 53 reviews
19 attraction reviews
Reviews in 16 cities Reviews in 16 cities
15 helpful votes 15 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed June 7, 2013

the building is good to look at - if you are into books you would enjoy it more. - worth a quick look.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 2 more reviews by pjs777 for Manchester

Travelers who viewed John Rylands Library also viewed

Manchester, Greater Manchester
Manchester, Greater Manchester
 
Manchester, Greater Manchester
Manchester, Greater Manchester
 

Been to John Rylands Library? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage John Rylands Library, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

Manage your listing