Taste of the Monastery Tour

A historical tour of E.W. Pugin’s neo-gothic, Victorian Manchester masterpiece

Discover the history of E.W. Pugin’s neo-gothic treasure and walk in the footsteps of the Franciscans. This volunteer guided tour offers a fascinating insight into the life and work of the friars who created this much-loved place of worship and important example of Manchester architecture.

Learn about the rise, decline and fall of The Monastery and its magnificent restoration.  Our guided tours bring this incredible story to life. Come and find out what makes this famous Manchester landmark so special and spend an interesting and enlightening afternoon, steeped in local history & national heritage.

Recent reviews

“Very engaging, knowledgeable guide, good humour – tour just the right length, great café and shop, but most of all The Monastery is absolutely amazing, excellent restoration – wonderful history. Wonderful to visit the place where we believe Father William Murray went to school and had first communion early 1930’s also place of worship from Great Grandmother Margaret Murray and son Alexander around 1910.” Alex and Linda Murray 

“A wonderful place, great to see progress. A super tour, we were very well looked after by Elaine and all the Monastery Team, lovely food, thanks to all.” – Roy Chapman 

“The tour was really interesting and Grahame was very knowledgeable.” Kim Bush 

“Very interesting guided tour led by Grahame. We were very interested as our ancestry were part of the
Church when they lived in Gorton around 1900.” – Amanda 

“We would like to express our thanks and appreciation for a wonderful tour, Grahame was extremely
welcoming and full of local information, we will be back again, keep up the great work.” – A Price 

Fast facts

• This tour is £12
• This is a walking tour of The Monastery and takes around 30 to 45 minutes
• This tour includes tea/coffee and biscuits
• Tours take place on Mondays at 2:00pm 
• Children (under 16) free – accompanied by an adult
• Recommended for adults and children aged 12+
• Each tour has a capacity of 15
• Larger groups can pre-book a private tour by contacting [email protected]
• This event is fully accessible for wheelchairs and buggies

Book tickets for 2024 tours by clicking here

Book tickets for 2025 tours by clicking here

Directions to the Monastery here.