The Portico Library: Manchester’s Elegant Greek Revival Treasure
Discover Manchester’s historic Portico Library, a Greek Revival architectural gem and vibrant cultural hub since 1806.
The Portico Library, located at 57 Mosley Street in Manchester, is a distinguished independent subscription library and newsroom housed in a Grade II* listed Greek Revival building designed by Thomas Harrison. Founded in 1806 by 400 visionary businessmen, it holds a rich collection of over 25,000 books, including rare editions by Dickens and Brontë. The library remains a vibrant cultural hub, hosting literary events and nurturing northern writing traditions.
A brief summary to The Portico Library
- 57 Mosley St, Manchester, M2 3HY, GB
- +441612366785
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-7 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to experience quieter hours and explore the library’s extensive 19th-century book collection.
- Check the schedule for literary events and exhibitions held regularly in the library’s gallery spaces.
- Explore the building’s architectural details, especially the Ionic columns and the central glazed dome.
- Engage with the Portico Prize and other northern writing initiatives to appreciate the library’s cultural contributions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Manchester Piccadilly Station, take Metrolink tram towards Altrincham or Eccles and alight at St Peter's Square. From there, it is a 10-minute walk to the Portico Library. Tram tickets cost approximately £3-£5 GBP depending on zones.
-
Bus
Several bus routes, including numbers 50, 52, and 53, serve Mosley Street with stops nearby. Travel time from Manchester Coach Station is around 15-20 minutes. Single fares typically range from £2 to £4 GBP.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Manchester Airport to the Portico Library takes approximately 25-35 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £25 and £35 GBP.
-
Walking
If staying in central Manchester, the library is within a 15-20 minute walk from major hotels and attractions. The route is flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.
The Portico Library location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Portico Library
Architectural Elegance and Historical Foundations
The Portico Library stands as Manchester’s first Greek Revival building, designed by architect Thomas Harrison of Chester and constructed between 1802 and 1806. Its sandstone ashlar façade features a striking three-bay pedimented loggia with four Ionic columns, creating a refined and classical presence on Mosley Street. The interior, inspired by the neoclassical style of John Soane, includes a central glazed dome illuminating the newsroom below. This Grade II* listed building is widely regarded as one of Manchester’s most elegant historical structures, embodying the city's early 19th-century architectural ambitions.A Visionary Hub for Learning and Culture
Founded by 400 subscribers—merchants, professionals, and intellectuals—the Portico Library was conceived as a combined library and newsroom to foster learning and cultural exchange during Manchester’s rise as a modern industrial city. It opened in 1806, inspired by Liverpool’s Athenaeum, and quickly became a center for intellectual life. Early members included notable figures such as John Ferriar, Peter Mark Roget, John Dalton, Sir Robert Peel, and Elizabeth Gaskell. The library’s collection, now numbering around 25,000 volumes primarily from the 19th century, reflects the social and economic history of the era, including works by Dickens, Brontë, and other literary giants.Evolution Through Time and Community Engagement
While the ground floor has been leased since the early 20th century—initially to the Bank of Athens—the library has maintained its presence on the upper floors, continuing its mission as a subscription library and cultural venue. Recent decades have seen renewed investment, including a significant National Lottery Heritage Fund grant in 2023 aimed at restoring the building and uniting its floors for enhanced public access. The Portico now hosts exhibitions, literary events, and workshops, engaging a diverse community and promoting northern writing through initiatives like the Portico Prize, often called the 'Booker of the North.'Collections and Archives as Windows to Manchester’s Past
The library’s archives include committee records, minute books, correspondence, and issue logs dating back to the mid-19th century, offering invaluable insights into Manchester’s social and cultural evolution. Its collection not only preserves literary treasures but also documents the complexities of Manchester’s colonial and industrial heritage, acknowledging both innovation and inequity. This reflective approach helps the Portico serve as a bridge between past and present, fostering understanding and inclusivity.A Living Institution with a Forward-Looking Vision
Today, the Portico Library is more than a repository of books; it is a dynamic cultural institution dedicated to storytelling, education, and community collaboration. Its public programs include exhibitions, workshops, and literary awards that support young writers and celebrate northern literature. The ongoing restoration project aims to create welcoming spaces that inspire curiosity and creativity, ensuring the Portico remains a vital part of Manchester’s intellectual and cultural landscape for generations to come.The Portico’s Enduring Legacy in Manchester’s Heart
Situated in the city’s historic core, the Portico Library embodies Manchester’s journey from industrial powerhouse to modern cultural hub. Its architectural beauty, rich collections, and commitment to inclusivity make it a unique destination for those interested in literature, history, and architecture. The Portico continues to honor its founders’ vision by fostering a vibrant community space where knowledge and creativity thrive.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Connaught Building
0.1 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
Arch of Chinatown
0.2 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Manchester City Council
0.3 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
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.
John Bright Statue
0.3 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
0.3 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
0.3 km
A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
Dalton Entry
0.4 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Mulberry Passage
0.4 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
0.5 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
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.
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.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
0.5 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Historic England
0.5 km
Explore the rich heritage of England at Historic England in Manchester, where history meets preservation and community engagement.
Greater Manchester Police Museum & Archives
0.6 km
Step inside a historic Victorian police station and magistrates court to explore Greater Manchester’s rich policing history and archives.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chinatown
0.1 km
Discover Manchester Chinatown’s vibrant streets filled with authentic Asian cuisine, rich culture, and festive charm in the city’s heart.
Manchester Art Gallery
0.1 km
Explore centuries of art and design in Manchester’s historic and dynamic city-centre gallery with free entry and family-friendly spaces.
City Tower, Manchester
0.2 km
Manchester’s iconic 30-storey skyscraper offering premium office spaces and panoramic city views in the heart of the vibrant city centre.
Manchester Cenotaph
0.2 km
Explore the Manchester Cenotaph, a historical landmark honoring the brave souls of the armed forces in the heart of Manchester.
Grey Horse Inn
0.2 km
Experience the heart of Manchester at the Grey Horse Inn, where delicious food, local brews, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
DNA VR Manchester
0.2 km
Step into Manchester’s premier VR arcade where immersive games, escape rooms, and free-roam adventures bring virtual worlds to life.
Piccadilly Gardens
0.3 km
Manchester’s central green space blending historic charm, modern design, and vital transport connections in a lively urban setting.
Emmeline Pankhurst Statue
0.3 km
Celebrate the legacy of Emmeline Pankhurst, Manchester’s pioneering suffragette leader, through this inspiring statue in St. Peter’s Square.
Manchester Albert Square
0.3 km
Discover Manchester Albert Square, a stunning Victorian civic space where history, architecture, and vibrant culture converge in the city’s heart.
Market St
0.3 km
Manchester’s bustling pedestrian retail street linking major stations with iconic shops and vibrant city life.
2 Albert Square
0.3 km
Historic Albert Square in Manchester showcases Victorian Gothic grandeur with its iconic Town Hall and Prince Albert Memorial.
Albert Square
0.3 km
Manchester’s grand civic heart, framed by Gothic spires and alive with markets, monuments, and city life.
Manchester Central Library
0.3 km
Discover Manchester Central Library’s iconic neoclassical dome, vast collections, and vibrant cultural spaces in the city’s historic heart.
拿破仑（Napoleons) Restaurant and KTV
0.3 km
Discover the ultimate dining and karaoke experience at Napoleons Restaurant and KTV in Manchester, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and fun.
The Cockatoo Club
0.3 km
Manchester’s vibrant cabaret hotspot offering dazzling drag shows, lively bars, and unforgettable LGBTQ+ nightlife in the heart of the Gay Village.
Essential places to dine
Namii Kitchen & Cocktails
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Vietnamese and pan-Asian flavors with creative cocktails in Manchester’s lively city centre.
Higher Ground
0.1 km
A vibrant Manchester bistro blending seasonal British produce with sustainable ethos and refined, shareable dishes in a modern, welcoming setting.
Browns Manchester
0.2 km
Victorian elegance meets contemporary British cuisine in Manchester's most distinguished brasserie.
Grand Pacific
0.2 km
Experience Manchester’s gothic-inspired Pan-Asian cocktail bar with stunning décor, lively atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks in the city center.
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 refined French-inspired restaurant and cocktail bar in Manchester’s historic core, blending seasonal small plates with natural wines and crafted cocktails.
Armenian Taverna & Restaurant
0.3 km
Manchester's authentic Armenian culinary institution, recently modernized yet rooted in five decades of tradition.
Sam's Chop House
0.3 km
Experience traditional British chophouse dining with locally sourced ingredients in Manchester’s cozy, historic atmosphere.
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.
Fumo by San Carlo - Manchester
0.3 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with an art deco flair, vibrant bar scene, and shareable dishes in Manchester’s lively St Peter’s Square.
MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE
0.3 km
Historic Manchester chophouse serving hearty British classics in a warm, inviting setting since 1867.
Habesha Restaurant
0.4 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine and warm hospitality at Habesha Restaurant, Manchester’s beloved spot for traditional injera and hearty stews.
Don Giovanni - Italian Restaurant Manchester
0.4 km
A lively Italian restaurant in Manchester’s city centre blending traditional flavours with modern style and vibrant atmosphere.
Adam Reid at The French
0.4 km
Experience innovative Northern British fine dining with theatrical flair in Manchester’s iconic Midland Hotel.
El Gato Negro Tapas Manchester
0.4 km
Stylish Spanish tapas in a historic Manchester townhouse with a vibrant bar, open kitchen dining, and a stunning rooftop terrace.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
0.2 km
A vibrant Chinese art and craft gallery in Manchester’s Chinatown, showcasing handcrafted treasures and cultural heritage in a warm, welcoming space.
Stare Society
0.2 km
Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
Manchester Souvenirs & Convenience Store
0.2 km
Discover authentic Manchester souvenirs and essentials in the heart of the city, blending culture, convenience, and community spirit.
Menkind
0.4 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, Manchester Arndale’s vibrant destination for fun and innovative presents.
The Manchester Shop
0.4 km
Discover Manchester's soul in bee motifs, music tees, and proud souvenirs at this Northern Quarter gem within Afflecks Arcade.
Søstrene Grene
0.4 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Amazonas Gifts
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Amazonas Gifts, nestled in the heart of Manchester Markets Piccadilly.
needi
0.4 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts with expert personal service in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly at Needi.
Red and Blue Umbrella
0.4 km
Discover timeless style and friendly service at Manchester’s Red and Blue Umbrella vintage clothing shop on Church 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.
Laissez Faire UK Fairtrade & Eco Clothes & Gifts
0.4 km
Discover fairtrade and eco-friendly fashion and gifts in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Church Street district.
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.
Pulse
0.4 km
Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
Cow Vintage Manchester
0.5 km
Discover trend-led vintage fashion and sustainable style in Manchester’s creative Northern Quarter at Cow Vintage.
Thunder Egg
0.5 km
Dive into a rainbow of quirky fashion and gifts at Thunder Egg, Manchester's colorful boutique for unique vintage-inspired styles and playful outfits.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alchemist New York Street
0.1 km
A captivating cocktail theatre and dining experience blending molecular mixology with global cuisine in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
All Bar One Manchester
0.2 km
Stylish wine bar on Manchester’s King Street offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a lively, modern atmosphere for casual dining and drinks.
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.
Corbieres Bar
0.4 km
Discover Corbieres Bar, Manchester’s cozy underground spot famed for its eclectic jukebox, vegan-friendly pizzas, and welcoming vibe.
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.
NQ64 Northern Quarter
0.4 km
Retro arcade bar blasting 80s-90s nostalgia with neon cocktails, token games, and basement buzz in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
The Daisy
0.5 km
Parisian subterranean cocktail haven in Manchester's Northern Quarter: eclectic vibes, masterful drinks, and weekend DJ magic beneath Evelyn's.
Speak In Code
0.5 km
Discover Speak In Code, Manchester’s innovative cocktail bar blending artisanal mixology, sustainable practices, and a uniquely immersive atmosphere.
Night & Day Cafe
0.5 km
Manchester's intimate live music heartbeat in the Northern Quarter—where legends launched and nights ignite with raw indie energy.
Arcane
0.5 km
Discover Arcane, a cozy Victorian-inspired cocktail bar in Manchester’s city centre, blending inventive drinks with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Dusk Til Pawn
0.5 km
Secretive pawn-shop façade, intimate speakeasy interior and a menu of inventive cocktails in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
Wilson's Social
0.5 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.
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.
Wolf at the Door
0.5 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Satans Hollow
0.3 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Club Tropicana
0.4 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.
Twenty Twenty Two
0.5 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.
Venue Nightclub
0.5 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Club Liv Manchester
0.5 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Funkademia
0.5 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
0.6 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
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.
Aatma
0.6 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
42's
0.6 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Viva Manchester
0.7 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
0.7 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
History Nightclub
0.7 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Kable
0.7 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Bliss Club Manchester
0.7 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
