Chetham's Library: England’s Oldest Public Library and Medieval Treasure
Explore England’s oldest public library, a medieval architectural gem and historic hub of revolutionary ideas in Manchester’s heart.
Chetham's Library in Manchester, established in 1653, is the oldest free public reference library in the English-speaking world. Housed in a remarkable medieval building dating back to 1421, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into centuries of scholarship, historic architecture, and a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts. Famous for its association with Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, the library remains a vital cultural landmark and research resource.
A brief summary to Chetham's Library
- Long Millgate, Manchester, M3 1SB, GB
- +441618347961
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book a guided tour in advance to access the library’s historic rooms and learn about its rich history.
- Visit the Marx and Engels alcove to connect with the site where revolutionary ideas were forged.
- Wear comfortable shoes to enjoy the creaky wooden floors and medieval stone interiors.
- Check opening hours carefully; the library is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 4pm.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Metrolink tram to Exchange Square station, approximately 10 minutes from Manchester Piccadilly. From there, it is a 10-minute walk to Chetham’s Library. Trams run frequently with tickets costing around £2.50 one way.
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Bus
Several bus lines, including 135, 41, 50, and 59, serve stops near Long Millgate. The closest bus stop is Victoria Rail Station (NW stop), about a 12-minute walk from the library. Single fares typically range from £2 to £3.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Manchester city center takes about 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £5 to £10. Drop-off is possible near Long Millgate, but parking is limited.
Chetham's 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 Chetham's Library
A Living Legacy of Knowledge Since the 17th Century
Chetham's Library was founded in 1653 by Humphrey Chetham, a wealthy Manchester merchant whose vision was to create a free library accessible to all scholars and the public. This pioneering institution has operated continuously for over 350 years, making it the oldest surviving public library in the English-speaking world. Chetham’s charitable foresight included appointing a board of governors to ensure the library’s enduring mission of education and knowledge sharing. From its inception, the library amassed an extensive collection of books covering theology, law, history, medicine, and science, reflecting a comprehensive ambition to encompass the full breadth of human understanding.Medieval Architecture Preserved Through Time
The library is housed within the medieval College House, constructed in 1421 to serve as a collegiate church and residence for priests. This sandstone building is one of Manchester’s finest surviving medieval structures, notable for its largely unaltered Gothic architecture. Over centuries, the building has served various roles, including a prison and arsenal during the English Civil War, before being restored as a sanctuary for learning. Its grand hall, warden’s lodgings, and intricately carved interiors evoke a profound sense of history, while the survival of original features such as carved oak stools and chained bookshelves offers visitors an authentic experience of early modern scholarship.A Collection of National and International Importance
Chetham’s Library holds more than 100,000 volumes, with around 60,000 printed before 1851. The collection includes rare manuscripts, early printed books, diaries, letters, and ephemera, specializing in the history and topography of Greater Manchester and Lancashire. It also preserves unique archives related to Belle Vue Zoo and Gardens, Manchester’s historic entertainment venue. The library’s holdings are an invaluable resource for historians, researchers, and anyone interested in the cultural heritage of the region, with many items digitized for wider access.Historic Encounters and Intellectual Milestones
Among the library’s most famous visitors were Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, who met here in 1845. Their research at Chetham’s contributed to the development of revolutionary ideas culminating in The Communist Manifesto. The alcove where they worked remains a highlight for visitors, symbolizing the library’s role as a hub of intellectual exchange. Stories and legends also enrich the library’s mystique, including tales of the mathematician and occultist Dr John Dee, who is said to have conducted experiments within its walls.Experiencing Chetham’s Today
Visitors to Chetham’s Library can explore its historic rooms and view facsimiles of significant works. The atmosphere is steeped in the scent of old wood and leather-bound books, with creaking floors and medieval stonework creating an immersive ambiance. Guided tours reveal the rich history and architectural details, while the library continues to serve scholars by appointment. Its location in Manchester’s medieval quarter places it close to other historic landmarks, making it a key cultural destination.Preserving a Cultural and Educational Treasure
Chetham’s Library operates as an independent charity, maintaining its founder’s commitment to free public access. It is a Grade I listed building, recognized for its exceptional historic and architectural significance. The library’s ongoing digitization projects and public programs ensure that this remarkable institution remains relevant and accessible in the 21st century, bridging centuries of knowledge and inspiring future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Owen Statue
0.1 km
Honoring Robert Owen, pioneer of social reform and the co-operative movement, through a striking statue in Manchester’s city heart.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
0.3 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
Dalton Entry
0.7 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Mulberry Passage
0.7 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
John Bright Statue
0.7 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
0.8 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.8 km
A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
Manchester City Council
0.8 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Connaught Building
0.9 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
St. Peter's Square
0.9 km
Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Arch of Chinatown
0.9 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Free Trade Hall
1.0 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Landmark, St Peter's Square
1.1 km
Discover the architectural marvel of Landmark at St Peter's Square, where modern business meets Manchester’s rich historical tapestry.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
1.1 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Murrays' Mill
1.1 km
Explore Murrays' Mills, the world’s oldest urban steam-powered cotton mill, where industrial heritage meets modern living in Manchester’s historic Ancoats district.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cathedral Gardens
0.0 km
A vibrant green oasis in Manchester’s medieval quarter, blending history, culture, and nature in the city centre.
National Football Museum
0.1 km
Explore the world’s greatest football collection and interactive exhibits in Manchester’s iconic National Football Museum.
Manchester Cathedral
0.2 km
Explore the captivating beauty and rich history of Manchester Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture situated in the heart of Manchester.
Corn Exchange Manchester
0.2 km
A historic Manchester landmark blending global dining, unique entertainment, and vibrant social experiences in a stunning Edwardian setting.
Exchange Sq
0.2 km
Manchester’s bustling Exchange Square blends historic resilience with vibrant shopping, seasonal markets, and cultural buzz in the city centre.
AO Arena
0.2 km
Manchester’s largest indoor arena, AO Arena hosts world-class concerts, sports, and family events in a vibrant urban setting.
The Mitre Hotel
0.2 km
Historic Victorian charm meets central Manchester convenience at The Mitre Hotel in Shambles Square.
Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre
0.4 km
Manchester’s largest indoor shopping centre, with over 200 stores, restaurants, and leisure options in the heart of the city.
Market St
0.4 km
Manchester’s bustling pedestrian retail street linking major stations with iconic shops and vibrant city life.
Once Upon a Smile
0.4 km
A dedicated Greater Manchester charity base providing child-centred bereavement support, counselling and creative memory-making programmes in a compassionate, private setting.
Manchester Buddhist Centre
0.4 km
A serene urban sanctuary in Manchester’s Northern Quarter offering meditation, wellness, and a unique sober bar experience.
Barton Arcade
0.4 km
Step into Barton Arcade, a Victorian marvel of glass and iron, where historic elegance meets boutique shopping in the heart of Manchester.
NQ Mural
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant NQ Mural, a colorful centerpiece of Manchester's Northern Quarter renowned for its dynamic street art and creative energy.
St Anns Square
0.5 km
Historic heart of Manchester blending 18th-century charm, architectural heritage, and vibrant retail life in an elegant urban square.
DNA VR Manchester
0.5 km
Step into Manchester’s premier VR arcade where immersive games, escape rooms, and free-roam adventures bring virtual worlds to life.
Essential places to dine
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Manchester
0.1 km
Contemporary Italian dining with cocktails in Manchester's vibrant Corn Exchange.
Cosy Club
0.2 km
Eclectic British dining and vibrant bar in Manchester’s historic Corn Exchange with stylish 1970s flair and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trof Northern Quarter
0.4 km
A multi-level Northern Quarter gem serving hearty British comfort food, craft beers, and rare bourbons in a lively, rustic setting.
Sicilian NQ - Restaurant and Bar
0.4 km
Authentic Sicilian cuisine and vibrant bar life in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, famed for arancini and inclusive vegan options.
Climat
0.4 km
Sophisticated rooftop dining in Manchester with panoramic views, a Burgundy-focused wine cellar, and inventive seasonal sharing plates.
Liquor and Burn
0.5 km
Experience bold Mexican street food and vibrant cocktails in Manchester’s artistic Northern Quarter at Luck Lust Liquor & Burn.
Annies
0.5 km
Experience hearty British classics and warm hospitality in the stylish, cozy setting of Annie's on Old Bank Street, Manchester.
TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar
0.5 km
A beloved Northern Quarter gem serving seasonal British cuisine with award-winning roasts and warm, attentive service in a relaxed brasserie setting.
63 Degrees
0.5 km
Experience meticulous French cuisine and elegant dining in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter at 63 Degrees.
PUPA Restaurant & Bar
0.5 km
Authentic Mediterranean charcoal grill and vibrant atmosphere in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, perfect for steak lovers and lively dining.
Yard & Coop Manchester
0.5 km
Savor the best buttermilk fried chicken in Manchester’s Northern Quarter with bold flavors, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere.
Sam's Chop House
0.5 km
Experience traditional British chophouse dining with locally sourced ingredients in Manchester’s cozy, historic atmosphere.
Cane & Grain
0.5 km
Discover Cane & Grain: where traditional American cuisine meets Manchester's vibrant nightlife scene in an unforgettable dining experience.
The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle
0.5 km
Cozy railway-arch eatery in Manchester serving authentic handmade spätzle and Central European pasta with a lively, buzzy atmosphere.
Almost Famous NQ
0.5 km
Bold, indulgent burgers and vibrant vibes in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, a must-visit for burger lovers and casual diners alike.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hoot
0.3 km
Discover magical gifts and Harry Potter treasures at Hoot, a charming boutique nestled in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant shopping heart.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
Rams Gift World
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Menkind
0.4 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, Manchester Arndale’s vibrant destination for fun and innovative presents.
Amazonas Gifts
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Amazonas Gifts, nestled in the heart of Manchester Markets Piccadilly.
Søstrene Grene
0.4 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Pulse
0.5 km
Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
&made
0.5 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artworks at &made, a creative studio in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter craft hub.
Deadstock General Store
0.5 km
Discover useful beauty at Deadstock General Store, where Liam Jackson curates high-end Japanese designs, artisan gifts, and tailoring in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
Jessica6 Designs
0.6 km
Discover unique luxury gifts and local artistry at Jessica6 Designs within Manchester’s vibrant Craft & Design Centre.
Studio One - Jewellery, Craft, Gifts and Homewares
0.6 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery and crafts at Studio One, a vibrant artisan studio within Manchester’s historic Craft and Design Centre.
Annea Veleta
0.6 km
A curated, maker-focused gift boutique in Ancoats offering handcrafted homewares, stationery and tasteful Manchester-themed keepsakes.
Laissez Faire UK Fairtrade & Eco Clothes & Gifts
0.6 km
Discover fairtrade and eco-friendly fashion and gifts in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Church Street district.
Red and Blue Umbrella
0.6 km
Discover timeless style and friendly service at Manchester’s Red and Blue Umbrella vintage clothing shop on Church Street.
Cow Vintage Manchester
0.6 km
Discover trend-led vintage fashion and sustainable style in Manchester’s creative Northern Quarter at Cow Vintage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old Wellington
0.2 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 Washhouse
0.3 km
Step through a washing machine door into Manchester’s secret speakeasy, where inventive cocktails and quirky charm create an unforgettable night out.
Wolf at the Door
0.4 km
A vibrant Northern Quarter bar serving innovative tapas-style bao buns, craft cocktails, and a lively urban atmosphere.
Be At One - Manchester
0.5 km
Lively cocktail bar on Deansgate with 100+ drinks, private hire rooms, and unbeatable happy hour deals in the heart of Manchester nightlife.
Corbieres Bar
0.5 km
Discover Corbieres Bar, Manchester’s cozy underground spot famed for its eclectic jukebox, vegan-friendly pizzas, and welcoming vibe.
Science And Industry
0.5 km
Sophisticated cocktails and a stylish vibe await you at Science and Industry, the first-floor bar of Cane & Grain in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
All Bar One Manchester
0.6 km
Stylish wine bar on Manchester’s King Street offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a lively, modern atmosphere for casual dining and drinks.
NQ64 Northern Quarter
0.6 km
Retro arcade bar blasting 80s-90s nostalgia with neon cocktails, token games, and basement buzz in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
The Daisy
0.6 km
Parisian subterranean cocktail haven in Manchester's Northern Quarter: eclectic vibes, masterful drinks, and weekend DJ magic beneath Evelyn's.
Behind Closed Doors
0.6 km
Descend into debauched delight at this Northern Quarter speakeasy, where retro telephones summon saucy cocktails amid erotic art, neon booths, and funky DJ beats until 4am.
Arcane
0.7 km
Discover Arcane, a cozy Victorian-inspired cocktail bar in Manchester’s city centre, blending inventive drinks with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Night & Day Cafe
0.7 km
Manchester's intimate live music heartbeat in the Northern Quarter—where legends launched and nights ignite with raw indie energy.
Wilson's Social
0.7 km
All-day Northern Quarter hub: brunch by day, cocktails and beats by night in a multi-level party palace with pool, courtyard, and private den.
Bar Fringe
0.7 km
A cozy Northern Quarter bar with quirky charm, top Belgian beers, live music, and a welcoming vibe for relaxed socializing.
Salt Dog Slim's Manchester
0.7 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Bijou Club
0.2 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Cargo
0.2 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
0.6 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
Funkademia
0.7 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
0.7 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Club Liv Manchester
0.7 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Twenty Twenty Two
0.8 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.
Aatma
0.8 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Venue Nightclub
0.9 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
42's
1.0 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Satans Hollow
1.0 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
History Nightclub
1.1 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
The Cockatoo Club
1.1 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Cockatoo Club in Manchester, where vibrant cabaret performances meet an unforgettable atmosphere.
YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
1.1 km
Dive into Manchester's most inclusive queer rave: grungy beats, diverse dancers, and unapologetic joy at YDSA Events in Ancoats.
Club Tropicana
1.1 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
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
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
