Did you know there’s a place to visit in Manchester known as Manchester’s Taj Mahal, boasting unique rooms and areas to explore?
Quite simply, Manchester Monastery is stuffed to the brim with things that make you go ooooo!
Whether you live locally or are a visitor to the region, The Monastery really is something you should see if you’re in Manchester. A visit to this hidden treasure is a wonderful thing to do with the whole family and admission is completely free.
The Monastery is a famous Manchester landmark, considered to be one of Edward Welby Pugin’s great architectural masterpieces. Designed using ancient architectural principles to create stunning effects combining light and sound, the Monastery attracts visitors from all over the world, who come to witness these unique properties for themselves.
We’ll let the actual King answer this one:
“I find that just being here lifts my spirits and makes me feel that anything is possible.”
— HRH King Charles III
Many thousands of others say that visiting Manchester Monastery is inspiring and uplifting. We warmly invite you to come and experience the wonderful atmosphere for yourself.
A typical visit to Manchester Monastery might include a tour of the building. You’ll hear the incredible story of its origins, tragic demise, and subsequent rescue and restoration by our Charitable Trust and community of volunteers.
Tour highlights include the truly magnificent Great Nave, the cloisters, and the peaceful Monastery garden.
Our guided tours are popular, so please pre-book. Group visits are welcomed and can be booked in the same way.
The Monastery is designed around a soulful central garden. Calm, peaceful and verdant, the garden is enclosed by the cloisters and provides a space for quiet reflection. If you’re lucky during your visit, you might get to see our signature flower, the Lichfield Angel, in bloom.
It’s a beautiful place to visit; seating is provided and outdoor dining is positively encouraged, weather permitting.
Take your pick from a selection of scrumptious sandwiches, mouth-watering cakes, and healthy snacks at our Welcome Café. We’ll be happy to serve you a range of refreshments and delicious food cooked with love and served with soul.
Eat inside or feel free to sit out in the beautiful Monastery gardens. If you’re in a rush, we’ll even organise a take-away box for you.
Opening hours: 10am – 4pm, Sunday to Thursday.
Each day from Sunday to Thursday, there is one hour of silence, from 12pm to 1pm. This event is open to all and free of charge.
Read more about our silent meditation right here.
The Monastery is open to the public on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday each week between 10am and 4pm.
Occasionally, we must close the nave for special events. Please check availability before travelling.
The Monastery is closed to the public each Friday and Saturday, as this is when we host weddings and other private events. These events pay for the upkeep of the site and help us to conserve and maintain this architectural gem.
We are fully accessible for wheelchairs and buggies. There are accessible toilets and baby changing facilities available on the ground floor. Our disabled access and facilities are award-winning.
The Monastery is a ten-minute drive from Manchester City Centre and there is a free, on-site car park with ample space. You can also get here by train or bus from Manchester Piccadilly.
Donations to help support the preservation of this important Victorian building are always gratefully received.
