Parsonage Gardens, Manchester
A peaceful garden oasis in central Manchester, rich with history and quiet reflection amid the city’s vibrant heart.
Parsonage Gardens is a tranquil green oasis nestled in central Manchester, offering a peaceful retreat amid the city's bustling streets. Located on St Mary's Parsonage, this historic garden sits on the former site of St Mary's Church and Parsonage House, demolished in the 1890s. It is a quiet, contemplative space favored by city workers and visitors seeking calm, with a poignant connection to Manchester’s recent history.
A brief summary to Parsonage Gardens
- St Mary's Parsonage, Manchester, Manchester, M3 2LF, GB
- +441612344343
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-8 pm
- Saturday 8 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday lunchtimes to experience the garden’s lively yet peaceful atmosphere as city workers take their breaks.
- Take a moment to reflect on the garden’s historical significance related to the 1992 Manchester bombings.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby River Irwell to enjoy scenic views and historic architecture.
- Bring a camera to capture the contrast between the garden’s natural tranquility and the surrounding urban landscape.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Metrolink tram to St Peter’s Square, from where Parsonage Gardens is a 10-minute walk through central Manchester. Trams run every 6-12 minutes, with tickets costing around £2.50 for a single journey.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including numbers 1, 2, and 3, stop near Deansgate, about a 7-minute walk from Parsonage Gardens. Buses operate frequently, with fares typically £2-£3 per ride.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you directly at St Mary's Parsonage. Travel times vary from 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic, with typical fares between £6 and £12.
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Walking
If staying nearby in central Manchester, walking to Parsonage Gardens is easy and pleasant, taking 10-15 minutes from major landmarks like Manchester Cathedral. The terrain is flat and accessible.
Parsonage Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Parsonage Gardens
A Quiet Sanctuary in the Heart of Manchester
Parsonage Gardens provides a serene green space tucked behind the busy Deansgate area, offering a peaceful escape from the urban rush. The gardens are characterized by well-maintained lawns, mature trees, and seating areas that invite visitors to pause and relax. Its location amid tall buildings near the River Irwell creates a sheltered, almost hidden atmosphere, making it a favored lunchtime spot for nearby office workers seeking solitude.Historical Roots and Architectural Context
The gardens occupy the site where St Mary's Church and the Parsonage House once stood until their demolition in the 1890s. St Mary's Church, originally erected in 1756, was a central feature of this area and part of Manchester’s ecclesiastical history. Nearby, the Grade II listed Century Buildings, with their ornate red brick and terracotta façades, overlook the gardens, blending historic architecture with modern residential and commercial uses. This juxtaposition highlights the area's evolution from religious and residential use to a mixed urban environment.Modern Significance and Remembrance
Parsonage Gardens also holds a somber place in Manchester’s recent history. On December 3, 1992, a small bomb detonated within the gardens as part of a series of IRA bombings in the city centre. Although the explosion caused no fatalities, it injured numerous people and left a lasting impact on the community. Today, the gardens stand as a quiet memorial space, encouraging reflection on those events and the resilience of Manchester’s people.Urban Green Space and Conservation
Designated as part of a conservation area by Manchester City Council, Parsonage Gardens is protected for its cultural and environmental value. The garden’s maintenance and preservation efforts ensure it remains a green lung within the city centre, supporting biodiversity and offering a low-impact natural habitat. Its calm ambience contrasts with the surrounding commercial bustle, making it a cherished urban refuge.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Parsonage Gardens can enjoy a relaxed, contemplative atmosphere where the sounds of the city fade into the background. The garden’s layout encourages quiet strolls and moments of mindfulness. Its understated beauty and historical layers provide a unique experience that combines nature, memory, and urban life. The space is especially welcoming during weekdays when office workers fill the seating areas, but it remains peaceful on weekends and quieter times.Integration with the Cityscape
Parsonage Gardens is seamlessly integrated into Manchester’s city fabric, bordered by historic buildings and modern developments. Its proximity to the River Irwell and the nearby Century Buildings adds architectural interest and scenic views. The garden’s discreet location makes it a hidden gem for those exploring Manchester’s less obvious attractions, rewarding visitors with a blend of history, tranquility, and urban charm.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dalton Entry
0.3 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Mulberry Passage
0.3 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
0.3 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
John Bright Statue
0.4 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
0.4 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Manchester City Council
0.5 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Free Trade Hall
0.5 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
St. Peter's Square
0.6 km
Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Robert Owen Statue
0.6 km
Honoring Robert Owen, pioneer of social reform and the co-operative movement, through a striking statue in Manchester’s city heart.
Connaught Building
0.7 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
0.7 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Arch of Chinatown
0.7 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Canada House, Manchester
0.8 km
Discover Canada House, a majestic Grade II listed cotton warehouse in Manchester, embodying the city’s rich industrial heritage and architectural splendor.
The Makers Market
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Makers Market in Manchester, where local artisans showcase their handmade crafts and gourmet foods.
Historic England
0.8 km
Explore the rich heritage of England at Historic England in Manchester, where history meets preservation and community engagement.
Unmissable attractions to see
House of Fraser
0.1 km
Discover luxury shopping and historic charm at House of Fraser Manchester, a premier department store on Deansgate.
Once Upon a Smile
0.1 km
A dedicated Greater Manchester charity base providing child-centred bereavement support, counselling and creative memory-making programmes in a compassionate, private setting.
Barton Arcade
0.1 km
Step into Barton Arcade, a Victorian marvel of glass and iron, where historic elegance meets boutique shopping 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.
St Anns Square
0.2 km
Historic heart of Manchester blending 18th-century charm, architectural heritage, and vibrant retail life in an elegant urban square.
John Rylands Research Institute and Library
0.3 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.
St Mary's RC Church
0.3 km
Discover St Mary's RC Church, Manchester's historic 'Hidden Gem' blending Victorian artistry and deep Catholic heritage since 1794.
Mural - Peterloo.
0.3 km
A vivid street art mural in Manchester commemorating the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the enduring fight for democracy.
People's History Museum
0.3 km
Britain's national museum of democracy, celebrating radical stories of people fighting for a fairer world.
Abraham Lincoln Statue
0.3 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Manchester honoring Abraham Lincoln and the city’s courageous support for abolition during the American Civil War.
The Mitre Hotel
0.4 km
Historic Victorian charm meets central Manchester convenience at The Mitre Hotel in Shambles Square.
2 Albert Square
0.4 km
Historic Albert Square in Manchester showcases Victorian Gothic grandeur with its iconic Town Hall and Prince Albert Memorial.
Albert Square
0.4 km
Manchester’s grand civic heart, framed by Gothic spires and alive with markets, monuments, and city life.
Manchester Cathedral
0.4 km
Explore the captivating beauty and rich history of Manchester Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture situated in the heart of Manchester.
Exchange Sq
0.4 km
Manchester’s bustling Exchange Square blends historic resilience with vibrant shopping, seasonal markets, and cultural buzz in the city centre.
Essential places to dine
Gaucho Manchester
0.1 km
Experience premium Argentine steaks and elegant dining in a spectacular historic church setting in the heart of Manchester.
Climat
0.1 km
Sophisticated rooftop dining in Manchester with panoramic views, a Burgundy-focused wine cellar, and inventive seasonal sharing plates.
San Carlo - Manchester
0.1 km
Experience authentic regional Italian cuisine in a stylish, celebrity-frequented Manchester hotspot known for elegance and vibrant atmosphere.
Masons
0.2 km
Elegant Modern British dining with art deco charm and a refreshingly simple menu philosophy.
Annies
0.2 km
Experience hearty British classics and warm hospitality in the stylish, cozy setting of Annie's on Old Bank Street, Manchester.
El Gato Negro Tapas Manchester
0.2 km
Stylish Spanish tapas in a historic Manchester townhouse with a vibrant bar, open kitchen dining, and a stunning rooftop terrace.
MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE
0.3 km
Historic Manchester chophouse serving hearty British classics in a warm, inviting setting since 1867.
Australasia
0.3 km
Stylish Pan-Asian dining in Manchester’s Spinningfields with vibrant flavors, chic design, and a lively atmosphere for special occasions.
Miller & Carter Manchester
0.3 km
Classic British steakhouse on Manchester’s King Street, serving expertly aged premium steaks in a warm, elegant setting with attentive service.
Sam's Chop House
0.3 km
Experience traditional British chophouse dining with locally sourced ingredients in Manchester’s cozy, historic atmosphere.
Kala
0.3 km
Modern European bistro blending classic and contemporary flavours in Manchester’s vibrant King Street district.
10 Tib Lane
0.3 km
A chic, intimate spot in Manchester serving refined French-inspired small plates with natural wines and craft cocktails in a historic Victorian setting.
Armenian Taverna & Restaurant
0.4 km
Manchester's authentic Armenian culinary institution, recently modernized yet rooted in five decades of tradition.
Gusto Italian
0.4 km
Experience elegant Italian dining in Manchester’s historic Elliot House, where 1920s charm meets fresh, contemporary cuisine.
Hawksmoor Manchester
0.4 km
Experience exquisite British steaks and seafood in a historic Victorian courthouse with impeccable service and elegant private dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Manchester Souvenirs Gifts & Presents Geek Elf Elux Bars Luggage storage locker
0.2 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.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.4 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant 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
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Amazonas Gifts, nestled in the heart of Manchester Markets Piccadilly.
Hoot
0.6 km
Discover magical gifts and Harry Potter treasures at Hoot, a charming boutique nestled in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant shopping heart.
TVSeriesJackets
0.7 km
Explore TVSeriesJackets in Manchester, where iconic TV show jackets come to life, blending style with your favorite characters' adventures.
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
0.7 km
A vibrant Chinese art and craft gallery in Manchester’s Chinatown, showcasing handcrafted treasures and cultural heritage in a warm, welcoming space.
Catch my Thrift
0.7 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
Stare Society
0.8 km
Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
0.8 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.
The Manchester Shop
0.8 km
Discover Manchester's soul in bee motifs, music tees, and proud souvenirs at this Northern Quarter gem within Afflecks Arcade.
Laissez Faire UK Fairtrade & Eco Clothes & Gifts
0.8 km
Discover fairtrade and eco-friendly fashion and gifts in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Church Street district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Be At One - Manchester
0.1 km
Lively cocktail bar on Deansgate with 100+ drinks, private hire rooms, and unbeatable happy hour deals in the heart of Manchester nightlife.
MOJO
0.2 km
Eclectic cocktail bar in Manchester’s heart, blending creative drinks with a lively, urban nightlife vibe.
Arcane
0.2 km
Discover Arcane, a cozy Victorian-inspired cocktail bar in Manchester’s city centre, blending inventive drinks with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
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.
Corbieres Bar
0.2 km
Discover Corbieres Bar, Manchester’s cozy underground spot famed for its eclectic jukebox, vegan-friendly pizzas, and welcoming vibe.
Salt Dog Slim's Manchester
0.3 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.
The Alchemist Spinningfields
0.4 km
Innovative cocktails and contemporary dining in Manchester’s vibrant Spinningfields district, blending theatrical flair with a lively social scene.
The Old Wellington
0.4 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.
Slug & Lettuce - Albert Square Manchester
0.4 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Manchester’s Albert Square, perfect for lively brunches, evening drinks, and social celebrations.
Speak In Code
0.4 km
Discover Speak In Code, Manchester’s innovative cocktail bar blending artisanal mixology, sustainable practices, and a uniquely immersive atmosphere.
All Bar One Manchester
0.4 km
Stylish wine bar on Manchester’s King Street offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a lively, modern atmosphere for casual dining and drinks.
The Blues Kitchen Manchester
0.5 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue, soulful live music, and vibrant vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Spinningfields.
The Washhouse
0.6 km
Step through a washing machine door into Manchester’s secret speakeasy, where inventive cocktails and quirky charm create an unforgettable night out.
The Alchemist New York Street
0.6 km
A captivating cocktail theatre and dining experience blending molecular mixology with global cuisine in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Three Little Words
0.7 km
A stylish gin distillery and cocktail bar under historic arches, blending craft cocktails, seasonal food, and immersive experiences in Manchester’s heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Liv Manchester
0.2 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Bijou Club
0.4 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Venue Nightclub
0.4 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
42's
0.4 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Cargo
0.5 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
History Nightclub
0.5 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
0.6 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
0.8 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
0.9 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
Bliss Club Manchester
0.9 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Ark Manchester
0.9 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Popworld Manchester
0.9 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Funkademia
0.9 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
0.9 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Twenty Twenty Two
0.9 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
