SeeSpinningfields-Albert Square

Central Library

You can't miss this striking circular neo-Classical building when passing through St. Peter's Square. Following a major renovation completed in 2014, Central Library is well worth visit, if not for its vast selection of resources and interactive archive but for its beautiful architecture, especially evident in the circular Wolfson Reading Room on the first floor. The Henry Watson music library was the place of re-discovery of the manuscripts of Vivaldi's celebrated 'Manchester' concerti.

free

Address: St Peter's Square
Hours: Department opening hours vary, see web site
Price: Free
Website: manchester.gov.uk (opens in a new tab)

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Listing from Wikivoyage: Manchester/Spinningfields-Albert Square, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Updated 28 Sept 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

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Manchester Town Hall
This imposing and beautiful neo-Gothic masterpiece by Alfred Waterhouse is the official headquarters of the Manchester City Council, but its job is largely ceremonial now. Most of the offices have moved to the more practical extension next door. The Town Hall shows the power Manchester commanded during the peak of the Industrial Revolution with its grand rooms and lavish decoration, including the famous Madox Murals in the Great Hall. Closed for refurbishment until 2024.
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EatVictoria-Shopping District
Rozafa
A pleasant place to while away an hour or two, with very honest and tasty Greek food.
DrinkSpinningfields-Albert Square
City Arms
Traditional two room busy pub which is over 190 years old. Weekday lunchtime food available. Real ales.
Mon-Thu noon-11PM, Fri Sat noon-midnight, Sun noon-8PM
SeeVictoria-Shopping District
Manchester Art Gallery
The principal wing is the work of Sir Charles Barry, also architect of the House of Parliament. Manchester's central art gallery is home to a huge collection of 19th-century and earlier works, including paintings by Canaletto, Constable, Turner, and Burne-Jones, as well as more complete collections by other artists. It has also been home to a number of original exhibitions over the last few years and the city's own art from all ages is well-represented within. There are important collections of world ceramics and English silver.
Tue-Sun 10AM-5PM and bank holidays except Christmas, New Year, and Good FriFree