Alexandria Library: Manchester’s Vibrant Literary and Cultural Hub
Discover Alexandria Library, a vibrant second-hand bookshop and community hub in Manchester’s Curry Mile, offering free English classes and local art exhibitions.
Nestled on Wilmslow Road in Manchester’s Curry Mile, Alexandria Library is a unique independent bookshop and community space offering a rich collection of second-hand books, free English language classes, and art exhibitions. Open Monday to Saturday from noon to 8pm, it serves as a welcoming cultural hub that celebrates diversity through literature, education, and local artistic expression.
A brief summary to Alexandria Library
- 247 Wilmslow Rd, Manchester, M14 5LW, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-8 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-8 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-8 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-8 pm
- Friday 12 pm-8 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit between 12pm and 8pm, Monday to Saturday, to explore books and attend free English language classes.
- Check out the rotating local art exhibitions that showcase diverse cultural narratives from the Rusholme area.
- Bring cash or card for purchasing affordable second-hand books and supporting community programs.
- Combine your visit with exploring the vibrant Curry Mile for an immersive cultural experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Several bus routes serve Wilmslow Road, with stops near 247 Wilmslow Rd. Travel times from Manchester city center range from 15 to 25 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evening services. A single fare costs approximately £2.50.
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Tram and Bus Combination
Take the Metrolink tram to East Didsbury station, then catch a local bus towards Curry Mile. Total journey time is about 30 to 40 minutes. Tram fares start at £2.40, with bus fares around £2.50. This option offers a scenic route through southern Manchester.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Manchester city center to Alexandria Library takes approximately 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Estimated cost ranges from £8 to £12. This is a convenient option for groups or those with mobility needs.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking along Wilmslow Road is straightforward and takes about 20 to 30 minutes from the nearest central neighborhoods. The route is mostly flat and accessible but can be busy with traffic and pedestrians.
Alexandria Library location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Alexandria Library
A Literary Haven in the Heart of Manchester
Alexandria Library is much more than a traditional bookshop. Located at 247 Wilmslow Road, it stands as a vibrant cultural landmark within Manchester’s bustling Curry Mile, an area known for its rich South Asian heritage. This independent venue specializes in second-hand and used books, providing an affordable and sustainable alternative for book lovers and collectors alike. Its shelves brim with diverse genres, reflecting the eclectic tastes of the local community and visitors.Community Engagement Through Education and Art
Beyond books, Alexandria Library offers free English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes, fostering inclusion and language learning for immigrants and residents seeking to improve their English skills. This educational initiative underscores the library’s commitment to social empowerment and community building. The space also features an art exhibition area showcasing works by local artists whose creations highlight the unique experiences and narratives of Manchester’s diverse populations, particularly those from Rusholme and surrounding neighborhoods.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The library’s interior exudes a cozy, welcoming ambiance where visitors can browse at leisure, engage in conversation, or attend community events. Its location on the lively Wilmslow Road offers a dynamic backdrop of multicultural life and cuisine, enhancing the overall sensory experience. The blend of books, art, and education creates a stimulating environment that appeals to readers, learners, and cultural enthusiasts.Operating Hours and Accessibility
Open six days a week from 12pm to 8pm, Alexandria Library provides ample opportunity for visitors to explore its offerings. Its accessibility by public transport and proximity to other Curry Mile attractions make it a convenient stop for both locals and tourists. The library’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its open-door policy and free community programs.Significance in Manchester’s Cultural Landscape
Alexandria Library contributes significantly to Manchester’s reputation as a city of literature and cultural diversity. It exemplifies how independent spaces can nurture community ties, support lifelong learning, and celebrate artistic expression. Its role extends beyond commerce, acting as a vital social and cultural hub in an area known for its vibrant immigrant communities.Future Prospects and Community Impact
With ongoing events, exhibitions, and educational programs, Alexandria Library continues to evolve as a cornerstone of cultural engagement in Manchester. Its sustainable approach to bookselling and community service positions it as a model for similar initiatives aiming to blend commerce, culture, and education in urban settings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Old Quadrangle
1.7 km
Victorian Gothic grandeur where academic tradition meets architectural magnificence in Manchester's heart.
The Queen's Arch
1.7 km
The Queen's Arch: Manchester’s iconic Gothic gateway to a rich academic and architectural heritage on Oxford Road.
Manchester Histories
1.8 km
Uncover the vibrant history of Manchester at Manchester Histories, where stories of the past come alive through engaging exhibitions and community events.
John Dalton Statue
2.5 km
Honoring John Dalton, father of atomic theory and pioneer of colour blindness research, with a distinguished statue in Manchester.
Hotspur House
2.8 km
Historic Hotspur House blends Manchester’s industrial past with bold modern redevelopment, preserving heritage amid vibrant urban renewal.
LS Lowry birthplace
2.8 km
Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.
Friedrich Engels Statue
2.9 km
A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.
Victory Over Blindness
2.9 km
A powerful bronze memorial at Manchester Piccadilly honoring WWI veterans blinded in battle, symbolizing resilience and solidarity at eye level.
Historic England
3.0 km
Explore the rich heritage of England at Historic England in Manchester, where history meets preservation and community engagement.
Canada House, Manchester
3.0 km
Discover Canada House, a majestic Grade II listed cotton warehouse in Manchester, embodying the city’s rich industrial heritage and architectural splendor.
Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) west portal
3.0 km
A historic tram tunnel portal in Ancoats, symbolizing Manchester’s industrial heritage and urban transformation.
Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) east portal
3.1 km
Historic tram tunnel portal in Manchester’s industrial Ancoats district, linking past mill heritage with modern urban regeneration.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
3.1 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Arch of Chinatown
3.1 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Connaught Building
3.2 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Platt Fields Park
0.5 km
Historic green oasis in Manchester’s Fallowfield, blending heritage, nature, and vibrant community recreation.
Sunny Alley
0.6 km
A vibrant, community-driven alley in Manchester’s Rusholme, alive with culture, art, and local spirit.
Ashburne Tree Man
0.7 km
Discover Fallowfield’s iconic Ashburne Tree Man, a living sculpture blending nature and art in a serene urban setting.
Reflective Passage
0.8 km
Discover Reflective Passage, a tranquil, greened alley in Manchester’s Moss Side where community spirit and urban nature beautifully converge.
Whitworth Park
0.9 km
Spacious self-catered student flats at the heart of Manchester’s University campus with excellent facilities and vibrant community life.
Victoria Baths
1.0 km
Manchester’s Edwardian water palace, where ornate tiles, stained glass, and grand pools tell a story of civic pride and community life.
The Whitworth
1.0 km
Discover The Whitworth, Manchester’s vibrant art gallery blending historic and contemporary art within scenic parkland surroundings.
The Pankhurst Centre
1.3 km
Explore the birthplace of the suffragette movement and celebrate women's activism in this historic Manchester museum and garden.
Elizabeth Gaskell's House
1.3 km
Step into the Victorian world of Elizabeth Gaskell in this beautifully restored Manchester home, rich with literary history and period charm.
Manchester Museum
1.8 km
Discover Manchester Museum’s vast natural history and cultural treasures in a stunning Victorian setting with free entry and immersive exhibits.
The University of Manchester
1.8 km
Explore The University of Manchester’s iconic blend of historic grandeur and modern innovation in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant cityscape.
O2 Apollo
1.9 km
Historic Manchester concert hall hosting iconic rock, pop, and comedy acts since 1938 in a vibrant, versatile setting.
Al-alam Palace Manchester
2.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Al Alam Palace Manchester, a stunning architectural gem nestled in Hulme’s peaceful gardens.
Beswick arches
2.6 km
Historic railway viaduct with iconic brick arches standing proudly in the heart of East Manchester’s evolving Beswick district.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
2.6 km
Dive into Manchester's vibrant nightlife at FAC251 - Factory Manchester, a premier nightclub and live music venue that promises unforgettable experiences.
Essential places to dine
The Refuge
2.7 km
A stylish sanctuary blending global flavors and British classics within Manchester’s iconic Kimpton Clocktower Hotel.
WOOD Manchester by Simon Wood
2.9 km
Experience Simon Wood’s innovative fine dining and artisan pairings in a stylish yet relaxed Manchester setting.
Habesha Restaurant
2.9 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine and warm hospitality at Habesha Restaurant, Manchester’s beloved spot for traditional injera and hearty stews.
Store Street Exchange Restaurant
3.0 km
Modern British dining with rotisserie specialties and craft cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly hub.
Don Giovanni - Italian Restaurant Manchester
3.1 km
A lively Italian restaurant in Manchester’s city centre blending traditional flavours with modern style and vibrant atmosphere.
Fumo by San Carlo - Manchester
3.1 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with an art deco flair, vibrant bar scene, and shareable dishes in Manchester’s lively St Peter’s Square.
Dom's Italia
3.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Manchester at Dom's Italia, where tradition meets vibrant city dining.
Adam Reid at The French
3.2 km
Experience innovative Northern British fine dining with theatrical flair in Manchester’s iconic Midland Hotel.
Mount Street Dining Room & Bar
3.2 km
Classic British dining with northern flair in the elegant, historic setting of Manchester’s Midland Hotel.
Podium
3.2 km
Sophisticated Modern British dining with inventive flavors and sleek modernist style in Manchester’s iconic Hilton Deansgate.
Higher Ground
3.2 km
A vibrant Manchester bistro blending seasonal British produce with sustainable ethos and refined, shareable dishes in a modern, welcoming setting.
Namii Kitchen & Cocktails
3.3 km
Experience vibrant Vietnamese and pan-Asian flavors with creative cocktails in Manchester’s lively city centre.
Italiana Fifty Five Liverpool Road
3.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm with freshly made pasta and unique flambéed dishes in the heart of Manchester.
Don Marco
3.3 km
Contemporary Italian dining with warm service and fresh flavors in Manchester’s lively Campfield Arcade.
Evuna Deansgate
3.3 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Deansgate district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The University of Manchester Gift Shop
1.8 km
Official University of Manchester merchandise and unique gifts in a welcoming campus shop on Oxford Road.
A Curious Collection
1.9 km
Discover Withington’s charming boutique gift shop offering unique, locally crafted treasures that celebrate Manchester’s creative spirit.
Utility Gift Store
2.0 km
Discover quirky, trendy, and unique gifts at Utility Gift Store, Manchester’s independent boutique for stylish presents and creative designs.
Cute Things By Aggie
2.3 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and charming homewares crafted with natural elements in Manchester’s cozy boutique, Cute Things By Aggie.
SHMYLS - Thoughtfully Made
2.4 km
Discover thoughtfully crafted jewelry and homewares at SHMYLS, a unique gift shop nestled in Manchester’s vibrant Hatch complex.
INFINITE RUNNING
3.0 km
Elevate your run with Infinite Running's premium gear: sleek half tights, breathable singlets, and weather-ready layers for Manchester's relentless athletes.
ItsFetch
3.0 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
3.0 km
Futuristic cornershop at Deansgate Square's base: craft coffee, local brews, zero-waste refills, and artisanal bites amid Manchester's iconic towers.
Curvilicious Clothing
3.0 km
Empowering plus-size style in Manchester's beating heart: Curvilicious Clothing celebrates curves with trendy, authentic fashion on Owen Street.
Branded Like A Boss
3.0 km
Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
Stare Society
3.1 km
Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
3.2 km
A vibrant Chinese art and craft gallery in Manchester’s Chinatown, showcasing handcrafted treasures and cultural heritage in a warm, welcoming space.
Manchester Souvenirs & Convenience Store
3.2 km
Discover authentic Manchester souvenirs and essentials in the heart of the city, blending culture, convenience, and community spirit.
needi
3.3 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts with expert personal service in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly at Needi.
Catch my Thrift
3.3 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gorilla
2.8 km
Manchester's ultimate hybrid haunt: brunch by day, beats by night in a funky bar-club fusion with live gigs and roasts.
The Britons Protection
3.0 km
Historic Manchester pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional charm, lively atmosphere, and welcoming community spirit.
Lock 91
3.1 km
Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.
Atlas Bar
3.1 km
Discover Manchester’s iconic gin bar with 570+ gins, award-winning service, and a year-round heated terrace in the heart of Deansgate.
The Deansgate
3.2 km
Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.
Cloud 23
3.2 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.
Three Little Words
3.2 km
A stylish gin distillery and cocktail bar under historic arches, blending craft cocktails, seasonal food, and immersive experiences in Manchester’s heart.
Bar Eight
3.3 km
Lively Irish pub on Manchester's Castle Quay, blending sports screens, hearty grub, and canalside cheer for unforgettable nights out.
The Wharf
3.3 km
Cosy canalside pub in Manchester's Castlefield, where real fires, craft ales, hearty roasts, and patio views create an unmissable waterside retreat for all.
cask
3.3 km
Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.
The Alchemist New York Street
3.3 km
A captivating cocktail theatre and dining experience blending molecular mixology with global cuisine in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Hold Fast Bar
3.4 km
Dive into Manchester's Northern Quarter basement gem: nautical vibes, retro tiles, banging tunes, and chill nights at Hold Fast Bar.
Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester
3.4 km
Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.
Slug & Lettuce - Albert Square Manchester
3.4 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Manchester’s Albert Square, perfect for lively brunches, evening drinks, and social celebrations.
Speak In Code
3.4 km
Discover Speak In Code, Manchester’s innovative cocktail bar blending artisanal mixology, sustainable practices, and a uniquely immersive atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kable
2.7 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Viva Manchester
2.8 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Club Tropicana
2.9 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.
Bliss Club Manchester
3.0 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Satans Hollow
3.0 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Popworld Manchester
3.1 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Ark Manchester
3.1 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Royal Vida Night Club
3.4 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.
Twenty Twenty Two
3.4 km
Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
History Nightclub
3.4 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Venue Nightclub
3.4 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
42's
3.4 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Aatma
3.5 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Funkademia
3.6 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
Mint Lounge
3.6 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
