St Mary's RC Church, The Hidden Gem of Manchester
Discover St Mary's, 'The Hidden Gem' of Manchester, a historic Catholic church renowned for its unique Rhenish Romanesque architecture and rich heritage.
St Mary's RC Church, known as 'The Hidden Gem', is a historic Catholic church located on Mulberry Street in Manchester. Founded in 1794 to serve the city's less fortunate, it was rebuilt in a distinctive Rhenish Romanesque style after a dramatic roof collapse in 1835. The church features unique brick and sandstone architecture, a helm tower, and houses the Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Manchester. It remains a spiritual and architectural landmark in the heart of Manchester.
A brief summary to St Mary's RC Church
- St Mary's Church, 17 Mulberry St, Manchester, M2 6LN, GB
- +441618343547
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-1:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings or early afternoons to enjoy a quieter, reflective atmosphere.
- Take time to admire the intricate stone and brickwork, especially the helm tower and Lombardic frieze.
- Explore the Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Manchester inside the church for a deeper spiritual experience.
- Check the church’s opening hours ahead of your visit as they vary slightly during weekends and weekdays.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the Metrolink tram to St Peter's Square, approximately a 10-minute walk from St Mary's Church. Trams run frequently throughout the day with tickets costing around £3-£5 for a single journey.
-
Bus
Several bus routes stop near Mulberry Street, including numbers 50, 52, and 53. Travel times vary from 15 to 25 minutes depending on your starting point. Tickets typically cost £2-£4.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are widely available in Manchester city center. A typical fare from central locations to St Mary’s costs between £5 and £10, with travel times around 5 to 15 minutes depending on traffic.
St Mary's RC Church location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Mary's RC Church
Origins and Early Mission
St Mary's RC Church was established in 1794 by Father Rowland Broomhead to serve the rapidly growing Catholic population of Manchester, particularly the city's poorer residents. It was the second Catholic church founded in Manchester after the Reformation, following St Chad’s Chapel. The church was dedicated to St Mary, specifically to her Assumption, and officially opened on 30 November 1794. At the time, Mulberry Street was a busy residential and commercial area, not hidden or secret, despite the church’s later nickname as 'The Hidden Gem.' The church quickly became a spiritual center for the local Catholic community, many of whom were Irish immigrants drawn by the Industrial Revolution.[1][2][3][5][8]Architectural Transformation and the Collapse
In 1833, under Father Henry Gillow’s direction, the church underwent a re-roofing and redecoration project. Unfortunately, this work lacked professional oversight, leading to structural failure. On 8 August 1835, a crack appeared in the dome above the altar, and later that night the dome and part of the roof collapsed, causing significant damage to the interior. Services were temporarily moved to a nearby school as the congregation sought a solution. Father Gillow died in 1837 during a typhus epidemic, delaying rebuilding plans.[1][3][5][8][9]Rebuilding in Rhenish Romanesque Style
The decision was made to rebuild St Mary's on the original site. Between 1844 and 1848, architects Weightman & Hadfield designed the new church in a striking Rhenish Romanesque style, a choice unusual for the time that reflected Continental influences. The new structure features red brick with sandstone dressings, a helm tower, a basilican form with a clerestory, and a large lantern over the nave to maximize natural light given the proximity of surrounding buildings. The interior includes tall arcades with round arches and columns adorned with Byzantine or Romanesque capitals painted to resemble marble. The church was formally opened in October 1848, restoring its role as a spiritual beacon in Manchester.[2][3][8]Artistic and Spiritual Highlights
In 1869, under Father John Newton, the adjacent presbytery was remodeled in Venetian Gothic style. He also commissioned sculptor Mr Lane of Preston to create the intricately carved high altar, side altar, and the shrine of Our Lady of Manchester. The church houses the Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Manchester, making it a significant pilgrimage and devotional site. The combination of architectural styles and artistic elements enriches the church’s spiritual atmosphere and historical significance.[2][3][8]The Church’s Place in Manchester’s Urban Fabric
Originally built in a poor and densely populated area, St Mary's now finds itself surrounded by taller modern buildings, which contribute to its nickname 'The Hidden Gem.' Despite urban changes, the church remains a vital spiritual and cultural landmark. It symbolizes the resilience and growth of Manchester’s Catholic community from the late 18th century through industrialization to the present day. Its location, architecture, and history offer a unique window into the city’s religious and social evolution.[3][5][8][9]Legacy and Recognition
St Mary's is a Grade II* listed building, recognized for its architectural and historic importance. The church’s unusual Rhenish Romanesque style, its survival through adversity, and its role as a spiritual home for generations of Mancunians contribute to its enduring legacy. Known affectionately as 'The Hidden Gem,' it continues to welcome worshippers and visitors alike, offering a peaceful refuge and a testament to Manchester’s rich Catholic heritage.[2][8][9]Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mulberry Passage
0.0 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
Dalton Entry
0.0 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
John Bright Statue
0.1 km
A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Albert Memorial
0.1 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Manchester City Council
0.2 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Free Trade Hall
0.3 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
St. Peter's Square
0.3 km
Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
0.4 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Connaught Building
0.4 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
0.4 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
Arch of Chinatown
0.5 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Canada House, Manchester
0.5 km
Discover Canada House, a majestic Grade II listed cotton warehouse in Manchester, embodying the city’s rich industrial heritage and architectural splendor.
Historic England
0.5 km
Explore the rich heritage of England at Historic England in Manchester, where history meets preservation and community engagement.
Manchester Buddhist Centre
0.7 km
Explore tranquility and spiritual growth at the Manchester Buddhist Centre, a serene oasis in the heart of Manchester offering meditation and community events.
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.7 km
A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Abraham Lincoln Statue
0.1 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Manchester honoring Abraham Lincoln and the city’s courageous support for abolition during the American Civil War.
2 Albert Square
0.1 km
Historic Albert Square in Manchester showcases Victorian Gothic grandeur with its iconic Town Hall and Prince Albert Memorial.
Albert Square
0.1 km
Manchester’s grand civic heart, framed by Gothic spires and alive with markets, monuments, and city life.
Manchester Albert Square
0.1 km
Discover Manchester Albert Square, a stunning Victorian civic space where history, architecture, and vibrant culture converge in the city’s heart.
John Rylands Research Institute and Library
0.2 km
A neo-Gothic architectural gem housing one of the UK’s largest rare book collections and a vibrant research institute in the heart of Manchester.
Saint Ann's Church
0.2 km
Discover St Ann's Church, Manchester’s neo-classical gem and historic city centre landmark, blending 18th-century elegance with vibrant cultural heritage.
House of Fraser
0.2 km
Discover luxury shopping and historic charm at House of Fraser Manchester, a premier department store on Deansgate.
Albert Hall, Manchester
0.2 km
Historic Wesleyan chapel turned iconic music venue with stunning stained glass and vaulted ceilings in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Manchester Central Library
0.2 km
Discover Manchester Central Library’s iconic neoclassical dome, vast collections, and vibrant cultural spaces in the city’s historic heart.
St Anns Square
0.3 km
Historic heart of Manchester blending 18th-century charm, architectural heritage, and vibrant retail life in an elegant urban square.
Manchester Cenotaph
0.3 km
Explore the Manchester Cenotaph, a historical landmark honoring the brave souls of the armed forces in the heart of Manchester.
Barton Arcade
0.3 km
Step into Barton Arcade, a Victorian marvel of glass and iron, where historic elegance meets boutique shopping in the heart of Manchester.
Parsonage Gardens
0.3 km
A peaceful garden oasis in central Manchester, rich with history and quiet reflection amid the city’s vibrant heart.
Alcotraz Manchester: Cell Block Three-Four
0.3 km
Discover the thrilling cocktail experience at Alcotraz Manchester, where immersive storytelling meets masterful mixology in a unique prison-themed bar.
Once Upon a Smile
0.3 km
A dedicated Greater Manchester charity base providing child-centred bereavement support, counselling and creative memory-making programmes in a compassionate, private setting.
Essential places to dine
Armenian Taverna & Restaurant
0.1 km
Manchester's authentic Armenian culinary institution, recently modernized yet rooted in five decades of tradition.
10 Tib Lane
0.1 km
A chic, intimate spot in Manchester serving refined French-inspired small plates with natural wines and craft cocktails in a historic Victorian setting.
El Gato Negro Tapas Manchester
0.1 km
Stylish Spanish tapas in a historic Manchester townhouse with a vibrant bar, open kitchen dining, and a stunning rooftop terrace.
Australasia
0.2 km
Stylish Pan-Asian dining in Manchester’s Spinningfields with vibrant flavors, chic design, and a lively atmosphere for special occasions.
MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE
0.2 km
Historic Manchester chophouse serving hearty British classics in a warm, inviting setting since 1867.
Gusto Italian
0.2 km
Experience elegant Italian dining in Manchester’s historic Elliot House, where 1920s charm meets fresh, contemporary cuisine.
Miller & Carter Manchester
0.2 km
Classic British steakhouse on Manchester’s King Street, serving expertly aged premium steaks in a warm, elegant setting with attentive service.
Kala
0.2 km
Modern European bistro blending classic and contemporary flavours in Manchester’s vibrant King Street district.
San Carlo - Manchester
0.2 km
Experience authentic regional Italian cuisine in a stylish, celebrity-frequented Manchester hotspot known for elegance and vibrant atmosphere.
Albert's Schloss - Manchester
0.2 km
A lively Bavarian-inspired beer hall in Manchester blending hearty food, live music, and vibrant nightlife in a unique social setting.
Hawksmoor Manchester
0.2 km
Experience exquisite British steaks and seafood in a historic Victorian courthouse with impeccable service and elegant private dining.
Gaucho Manchester
0.2 km
Experience premium Argentine steaks and elegant dining in a spectacular historic church setting in the heart of Manchester.
Annies
0.3 km
Experience hearty British classics and warm hospitality in the stylish, cozy setting of Annie's on Old Bank Street, Manchester.
Sam's Chop House
0.3 km
Experience traditional British chophouse dining with locally sourced ingredients in Manchester’s cozy, historic atmosphere.
Masons
0.3 km
Elegant Modern British dining with art deco charm and a refreshingly simple menu philosophy.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Manchester Souvenirs Gifts & Presents Geek Elf Elux Bars Luggage storage locker
0.1 km
Authentic Manchester souvenirs and gifts with local charm, plus convenient luggage storage in the heart of Deansgate.
Pulse
0.2 km
Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
Søstrene Grene
0.3 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Rams Gift World
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
0.4 km
A vibrant Chinese art and craft gallery in Manchester’s Chinatown, showcasing handcrafted treasures and cultural heritage in a warm, welcoming space.
Menkind
0.4 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, Manchester Arndale’s vibrant destination for fun and innovative presents.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.5 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
TVSeriesJackets
0.5 km
Explore TVSeriesJackets in Manchester, where iconic TV show jackets come to life, blending style with your favorite characters' adventures.
Stare Society
0.5 km
Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
Catch my Thrift
0.5 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
Amazonas Gifts
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Amazonas Gifts, nestled in the heart of Manchester Markets Piccadilly.
Manchester Souvenirs & Convenience Store
0.6 km
Discover authentic Manchester souvenirs and essentials in the heart of the city, blending culture, convenience, and community spirit.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
0.6 km
Discover science-infused souvenirs in the heart of Manchester's industrial birthplace, where history meets hands-on innovation at the Science and Industry Museum Shop.
Hoot
0.7 km
Discover magical gifts and Harry Potter treasures at Hoot, a charming boutique nestled in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant shopping heart.
The Manchester Shop
0.7 km
Discover Manchester's soul in bee motifs, music tees, and proud souvenirs at this Northern Quarter gem within Afflecks Arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Slug & Lettuce - Albert Square Manchester
0.1 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Manchester’s Albert Square, perfect for lively brunches, evening drinks, and social celebrations.
Salt Dog Slim's Manchester
0.1 km
Dive into Salt Dog Slim's Manchester for bold cocktails, American-style hot dogs, and a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of the city.
Arcane
0.1 km
Discover Arcane, a cozy Victorian-inspired cocktail bar in Manchester’s city centre, blending inventive drinks with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Speak In Code
0.1 km
Discover Speak In Code, Manchester’s innovative cocktail bar blending artisanal mixology, sustainable practices, and a uniquely immersive atmosphere.
Corbieres Bar
0.2 km
Discover Corbieres Bar, Manchester’s cozy underground spot famed for its eclectic jukebox, vegan-friendly pizzas, and welcoming vibe.
The Gas Lamp
0.2 km
Discover Manchester’s atmospheric basement pub with a rich history, exceptional craft beers, and a cozy, characterful vibe beneath Bridge Street.
All Bar One Manchester
0.3 km
Stylish wine bar on Manchester’s King Street offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a lively, modern atmosphere for casual dining and drinks.
MOJO
0.3 km
Eclectic cocktail bar in Manchester’s heart, blending creative drinks with a lively, urban nightlife vibe.
Be At One - Manchester
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar on Deansgate with 100+ drinks, private hire rooms, and unbeatable happy hour deals in the heart of Manchester nightlife.
The Alchemist Spinningfields
0.3 km
Innovative cocktails and contemporary dining in Manchester’s vibrant Spinningfields district, blending theatrical flair with a lively social scene.
The Blues Kitchen Manchester
0.3 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue, soulful live music, and vibrant vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Spinningfields.
The Alchemist New York Street
0.4 km
A captivating cocktail theatre and dining experience blending molecular mixology with global cuisine in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Three Little Words
0.5 km
A stylish gin distillery and cocktail bar under historic arches, blending craft cocktails, seasonal food, and immersive experiences in Manchester’s heart.
The Old Wellington
0.5 km
Step into The Old Wellington, a historic Manchester pub blending centuries-old charm with hearty ales and classic British fare in the city centre.
The Britons Protection
0.6 km
Historic Manchester pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional charm, lively atmosphere, and welcoming community spirit.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Liv Manchester
0.1 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Venue Nightclub
0.1 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
42's
0.3 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
History Nightclub
0.4 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Royal Vida Night Club
0.4 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
Satans Hollow
0.5 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Bliss Club Manchester
0.6 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Cargo
0.6 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Bijou Club
0.6 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Popworld Manchester
0.7 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Ark Manchester
0.7 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
The Cockatoo Club
0.7 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Cockatoo Club in Manchester, where vibrant cabaret performances meet an unforgettable atmosphere.
Club Tropicana
0.7 km
Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.
Viva Manchester
0.7 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Kable
0.8 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
