Chetham's Library

About the museum

Chetham's Library is housed in a sandstone building from the fifteenth century. In 1421 Thomas de la Warre, lord of Manchester, re-founded the parish church as a college and gave up his manor house for new buildings, which were the largest in medieval Manchester apart from the church. The college was dissolved in 1547, and the building was later used as a town residence, a prison and an arsenal, and fell into disrepair.

The Lancashire merchant Humphrey Chetham (1580 to 1653) provided in his will for a charitable foundation, including a school and a free public library, and the library was founded in 1653. The governors bought the neglected college house, had it restored by local craftsmen and furnished the library on the first floor to avoid damp. The books were first chained to the presses and later protected by gates, and Chetham's has been in continuous use as a public library for more than 350 years. Researchers consult the books in the reading room.

The collection of printed books, manuscripts and archives is recognised as nationally and internationally important. Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels did research here, and the alcove where they worked can be seen on a tour. The building is shared with Chetham's School of Music, so access for visitors is only possible on pre-booked tours led by staff and volunteers.

Highlights

• Medieval college building from the fifteenth century
• Gated book presses with books from the sixteenth century onwards
• Reading room alcove where Marx and Engels worked
• Historic furniture and paintings
• Chained library and the so-called medieval cat flaps

Founded

1653

Operated by

Chetham's Library (registered charity)

Admission & discounts

Guided tour tickets cost between £8.50 and £15.50, depending on the ticket type; the website does not list the individual ticket categories on the tour pages. Tickets are sold online only and must be booked in advance. All proceeds support the library and its collection.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: not available
• Elevator: not available
• Accessible restroom: not available
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The library is in a medieval building reached across a cobbled yard and up a flight of eighteen steps, with a handrail on the right and a small landing halfway. There is no lift and no accessible toilet, and floors are uneven and lighting is sometimes low. Wheelchair users and others who cannot manage the stairs may be unable to join the tours but can use the collections as readers. Seating is provided throughout the tour. The Access Scheme allows visitors with additional needs to book online and to request a free ticket for a personal assistant.

Kids & families

Only partly suitable for kidsRecommended for ages 8+

• Family tours & workshops

Since January 2026 children must be at least 8 years old to join the guided tours, and under-16s must be accompanied by an adult. School workshops and tours for school groups.

Getting there & parking

The entrance is through the main gate on Long Millgate, just off Cathedral Gardens.

Amenities & dining

There are no public toilets, because the building is shared with Chetham's School of Music; the nearest public toilets are at Victoria station and the Arndale Centre. Large bags and suitcases (larger than 35 x 40 x 19 cm) are not permitted, and there is no luggage storage on site.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Corporate events

The library and the Baronial Hall can be hired for events and filming; the library is reached via 18 steps and has low lighting.

Plan your visit