Manchester Cathedral
#15 in Best Things To Do in Manchester
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2 of 2Price & Hours
Details
scorecard
- 5.0Value
- 1.5Facilities
- 4.0Atmosphere
Manchester Cathedral, which dates back to the 15th century, has been through numerous conflicts and suffered damage both in World War II, as well as from an Irish Republican Army bomb in 1996. You'll want to take time to see the "Angel Stone," a stone found embedded in the structure that dates to 700. Also worth a look are the wooden carvings of medieval tales and legends under the seats of the quire stalls and the remains of a medieval bridge in the visitor center.
Past visitors said the cathedral is a beautiful building with fantastic stained-glass windows. Other said it's worth a visit even if you're not a religious person.
The cathedral is open Monday to Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. You can also opt for a guided tour of the cathedral; tours are available Monday through Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. There is no cost to visit, though a donation of 3 pounds (about $4) is suggested. Additionally, there is a charge of 1 pound (about $1.30) to take photos using a camera or smartphone. The cathedral sits in the Medieval Quarter and is accessible via the free bus. For more information, visit the cathedral's website.
More Best Things To Do in Manchester
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2 of 17#1 John Rylands Library
The University of Manchester's John Rylands Library is known as much for its beautiful architecture as it is for its collection of rare books and manuscripts. The impressive Gothic structure took 10 years to build and opened to the public in 1900. Among its vast collection are a fragment of Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales" manuscript, as well as the personal letters and papers of writers, military generals and more. There is even a papyrus fragment of the Gospel of John from the Bible. The fragment is believed to be the earliest part of any New Testament writing ever found.
Recent visitors said that the architecture is stunning, likening it to a scene out of the world of "Harry Potter." Though tripods and flash photography are not allowed, reviewers suggested snapping several photos of the interior (with no flash). Others recommended a stop in the restroom to have a look at the Victorian toilets, which have remained largely unchanged since 1900.
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