St Mary's RC Church, Manchester – The Hidden Gem of Mulberry Street
Discover St Mary's RC Church, Manchester's historic 'Hidden Gem' blending Victorian artistry and deep Catholic heritage since 1794.
St Mary's RC Church, known locally as The Hidden Gem, is a historic Catholic church located at 17 Mulberry Street, Manchester. Founded in 1794 to serve the city's less fortunate, the current Rhenish Romanesque building was completed in 1848 after the original church's dome collapse. Renowned for its Victorian artistry and spiritual significance, it houses the Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Manchester and stands as a testament to Manchester's Catholic heritage and resilience.
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 for a quieter, more reflective experience inside the church.
- Admire the intricate Victorian statues and carvings, especially those commissioned in the late 19th century.
- Respect the church’s active role as a place of worship; maintain silence and decorum during services.
- Explore the Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Manchester, a focal point of local Catholic devotion.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take Manchester Metrolink tram to St Peter's Square stop, then walk approximately 10 minutes along busy urban streets to reach St Mary's Church. Trams run frequently with fares around £2.50–£4.00 GBP depending on ticket type.
-
Bus
Several bus routes serve Deansgate and nearby stops within a 5–10 minute walk of the church. Buses run every 10–20 minutes, with single fares around £2.50 GBP. Note that traffic congestion may affect travel times during peak hours.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Manchester city center takes approximately 5–10 minutes depending on traffic, costing around £5–£8 GBP. Suitable for visitors with limited mobility or carrying heavy items.
-
Walking
From central Manchester, walking to St Mary's takes about 15–20 minutes through urban streets. The route is mostly flat but can be busy; suitable for those comfortable with city walking.
St Mary's RC Church location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Mary's RC Church
Origins and Early Mission
St Mary's Church was established in 1794 by Father Rowland Broomhead to provide a place of worship for Manchester's impoverished Catholic community. It was the city's second Catholic church after St Chad's and opened officially on 30 November 1794 under Father Edward Kenyon. Situated in a then-bustling, working-class area near Deansgate, the church was dedicated to St Mary, Our Lady of the Assumption, reflecting a deep Marian devotion that continues today. Its foundation marked a significant moment in Manchester's religious history, as Catholic worship had been suppressed for centuries following the Reformation.The Tragedy of the Dome Collapse
In 1833, under Father Henry Gillow's direction, the church underwent a re-roofing and redecoration project that lacked professional oversight. This led to a catastrophic structural failure on 8 August 1835, when a crack appeared in the dome above the altar, culminating in the collapse of the dome and part of the roof later that night. The damage forced the congregation to hold services in a nearby school while the church remained closed. The event was a pivotal moment that precipitated the church's complete rebuilding.Rebuilding in Rhenish Romanesque Style
Determined to preserve the church's legacy, the parish decided to rebuild on the original site. Architects Weightman & Hadfield, noted for their Catholic commissions, designed the new church in a distinctive Rhenish Romanesque style, unusual for the period and location. Construction began in 1844 and was completed in 1848. The new building features polychromatic stone and brickwork, a prominent helm tower, and tall arcades with Byzantine and Romanesque carved capitals. The basilican form with a clerestory and large lantern over the nave was designed to maximize natural light given the surrounding urban density.Artistic and Spiritual Treasures Within
The interior, commissioned by Father John Newton in 1869, is richly adorned with life-size statues of saints including Our Lady, St Stephen, St Patrick, and others, carved by sculptor Mr Lane of Preston. The intricately decorated high altar, side altar, and the shrine of Our Lady of Manchester reflect Victorian craftsmanship and deep spiritual symbolism. The church remains a vibrant center of worship and cultural heritage, hosting important ceremonies and maintaining its role as the Diocesan Shrine.The Church's Place in Manchester's Urban Fabric
Though now surrounded by taller modern buildings, St Mary's retains a commanding presence on Mulberry Street. Its nickname, The Hidden Gem, was coined in 1872 by Bishop Herbert Vaughan, who admired its architectural beauty despite its somewhat concealed urban location. The church stands as a symbol of the Catholic community's endurance through persecution, industrialization, and urban change, offering a serene spiritual refuge amid Manchester's bustling cityscape.Legacy and Continuing Relevance
St Mary's Church is Grade II* listed, acknowledging its architectural and historic importance. It embodies a narrative of faith, resilience, and artistry spanning over two centuries. The church continues to welcome worshippers and visitors alike, preserving its rich traditions while serving as a cultural landmark that connects Manchester’s past with its present.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
- Casual
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
- Myth & Legends
- 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
