Categories > Guides and Tips
Visiting the Manchester Cathedral: An Essential Guide for Travellers
- What is the Manchester Cathedral?
- What makes the Manchester Cathedral so unique?
- Where is the Manchester Cathedral located?
- Things Good to Know Before Going
- Best Time to Visit the Manchester Cathedral
- How to Get to the Manchester Cathedral
- What to Do and See at the Manchester Cathedral
- Attend church services
- Have a guided tour of the Cathedral
- Enjoy entertainment and community events
- Volunteer at the Manchester Cathedral
- Where to Eat near the Manchester Cathedral
- Skof
- Barburrito
- Miller & Carter Manchester
- Masons
- The Pasta Factory
- Where to Stay near the Manchester Cathedral
- Hotel Indigo Manchester - Victoria Station
- Roomzzz Aparthotels - Manchester Victoria
- Motel One Manchester - Royal Exchange
- Premier Inn - Manchester City Centre West
- Moxy Manchester City Hotel
- Where to Shop Near the Manchester Cathedral
- The Manchester Shop
- Søstrene Grene
- Manchester Craft & Design Centre
- Afflecks
- T. La Art & Craft Gallery (Oriental World)
- Other Stuff to Do near the Manchester Cathedral
- FAQs about the Manchester Cathedral
No tour of Manchester is complete without a visit to one of its most significant Anglican churches, the Manchester Cathedral.
This church is a historical and cultural marvel, being a Grade I Listed building, which places it among the most important structures in the UK. It has stood on this site since the 1400s, witnessing centuries of history.
The passage of time has shaped the cathedral into the gem it is today, making it one must-visit Mancunian destination.
Here’s our guide to what’s in store inside and outside the cathedral walls.
What is the Manchester Cathedral?
Media from Manchester Cathedral
Manchester Cathedral is Manchester’s Anglican parish church, established over 600 years ago.
It’s also known by its longer and more formal name, the Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Mary, St Denys, and St George, dedicated to the mother of Jesus Christ and the patron saints of England and France, respectively.
The church was built in 1415 during the late medieval era. Today, Manchester Cathedral is well-known not only for its significance in the Anglican faith and British history but also for its beautiful Gothic architecture and lively parish life.
What makes the Manchester Cathedral so unique?
Media from Manchester Cathedral
Manchester Cathedral is unique for its historical significance, Gothic architecture, vibrant parish culture, and high accessibility.
First and foremost, as one of the oldest churches in the UK, it has witnessed the reigns of many British monarchs and survived many wars and incidents of unrest.
Next, the cathedral’s Gothic architecture is stunning, with its emphasis on vertical lines and large windows, including the intricate and colourful stained-glass Fire Window.
Additional decorative elements like the misericords in the choir stalls and the ancient Angel Stone carving highlight the elegant and long history of Manchester’s faithful.
The church also fosters a welcoming and collaborative culture that continually uplifts its community.
Lastly, as it’s in the city centre, experiencing the Manchester Cathedral is convenient.
Where is the Manchester Cathedral located?
Image Source: Google Maps
Manchester Cathedral is in the heart of Manchester city centre, along Victoria Street.
Some notable landmarks near the Manchester Cathedral include:
- Victoria Bridge – A Victorian-era stone bridge named after Queen Victoria, connecting Manchester and Salford.
- River Irwell – The river that separates Manchester and Salford, with the Victoria Bridge spanning across it.
- Corn Exchange, Manchester – A historic building now home to many great restaurants.
- Chetham’s Library – The oldest public library in the English-speaking world, established in 1653, located right beside the cathedral’s north end.
- Exchange Square – A public square near the cathedral, Corn Exchange, and shopping stores along Corporation Street.
These landmarks add to the charm and historical significance of the area surrounding the Manchester Cathedral.
Things Good to Know Before Going
As one of the oldest churches in the UK, the Manchester Cathedral is no stranger to visitors from all walks of life, all over the world.
Here are a couple of things that’ll come handy to people vying for a view of the holy and historic church:
- There is no entrance fee for entering the Manchester Cathedral. The faithful are always welcomed in this church with open arms.
- Donations are highly welcome. The Cathedral suggests a minimum donation of £5 via cash or digital (contactless) method, to help with its upkeep and operational expenses.
- Manchester Cathedral is an old medieval structure, not originally designed with accessibility in mind. Modifications were added to help people with limited mobility, but as a Grade I Listed building, changes are limited to preserve its historical integrity.
- There are no toilets inside the Manchester Cathedral itself. The nearest toilets are at the Cathedral Kitchen Cafe at Cateaton Street.
- Accessible toilets are a 5-minute walk away. Your options include the Marks & Spencer store and Manchester Arndale, both on Corporation Street.
- Nearest parking to the Cathedral is at Q-Park Deansgate North on Chapel Street. You can get a discount if you pre-book your parking slot early via Q-Park’s website, and an additional 10% discount with the Manchester Cathedral’s promo code: MC1421.
We hope these tips will be helpful in your planning and preparation for a visit to the cathedral.
Best Time to Visit the Manchester Cathedral
The best time to visit Manchester Cathedral is Monday to Saturday, between 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM.
Sunday visiting hours are limited to 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM because of the high number of services held that day. If you’re keen on having a guided tour, drop by the Manchester Cathedral from Monday to Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
For groups, you may contact the Cathedral directly to schedule a tour.
How to Get to the Manchester Cathedral
Travellers in and around Manchester are blessed with the fact that the Manchester Cathedral is just in the middle of the city’s centre. Which is why it’s very easy to get to the cathedral for a visit with these methods:
- Driving: Driving to Manchester Cathedral while already in the city centre will only take a few minutes. However, travelling from further districts like Trafford or Didsbury may take anywhere from 30 minutes to just under an hour, depending on road traffic.
- Closest bus stop: The closest bus jump-off point to the Manchester Cathedral is St Mary’s Gate (Stop ND) along Deansgate and near the Victoria Bridge. Another option is Chapel Street (Stop NI), but that requires a longer walk to the cathedral.
- Closest train stop: Travel from any point along the National Rail’s West Coast Main Line to Manchester Victoria station, one of the city’s mainline stations. From there, it’s less than a 10-minute walk to Manchester Cathedral.
- Closest tram stop: Exchange Square is where the nearest tram stop to the Manchester Cathedral is. It’s quite easy to spot since it’s just between the Corn Exchange and Manchester Arndale shopping centre.
What to Do and See at the Manchester Cathedral
Attend church services
Media from Manchester Cathedral
Manchester Cathedral is, above all, a place of worship to God. Thus, the first thing we urge you to do (especially if you’re Anglican) is to attend any of the church services on the day of your visit.
On weekdays, there are usually three services: one in the morning, noon, and evening. It gets busier over the weekend, especially on Sundays, since it’s when the Eucharist is celebrated.
Additionally, special services and events are held by the clergy throughout the year, marking important dates in the Anglican calendar. For updated details on service schedules, refer to Manchester Cathedral’s official website.
Have a guided tour of the Cathedral
Media from Manchester Cathedral
You can definitely explore Manchester Cathedral on your own, while having the church leaflets as your own guide. However, we highly recommend taking a guided tour for more in-depth information and the chance to meet active parishioners.
Volunteers run guided tours, so schedules and guide availability may vary. Typically, these tours are offered from Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and are free.
To ensure a smooth experience, call or inquire in advance to coordinate your guided tour.
Enjoy entertainment and community events
Media from Manchester Cathedral
Aside from being a place of worship, the Manchester Cathedral is also a popular venue for secular events. Music performances, community gatherings, exhibits, and other activities fill the church’s annual calendar.
Any of these events plus Manchester Cathedral’s stunning Gothic architecture will surely equal a one-of-a-kind experience.
Time your visit to coincide with one of these events to enrich your soul while enjoying Mancunian art and society.
Whether you’re attending a concert, a community gathering, or a special exhibition, the Manchester Cathedral offers a blend of spiritual and cultural enrichment that is truly unparalleled.
Volunteer at the Manchester Cathedral
Media from Manchester Cathedral
If you’re from around Manchester, why not volunteer at the cathedral? Your time and effort can greatly benefit the many visitors and parishioners of the church.
There are several ways you can volunteer:
- Join the Volition program to find your career path.
- Become a church welcomer or tour guide.
- Join the ranks of the church’s gardeners.
- Lend your strength as a bell ringer.
These opportunities not only help pass the time but also enrich your skills and allow you to meet new people—a win-win situation!
Inquire with the cathedral office to learn more about volunteering.
Where to Eat near the Manchester Cathedral
Skof
Media from Skof
Address: 3 Federation St, M4 4BF
Phone: 0161 669 1961
Pricing: £££
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM, 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Good to know: No dress code; Reservations and prepayment required
Chef Tom Barnes’ passion project, Skof, is a must-visit newcomer to the Manchester dining scene. After a visit to the Manchester Cathedral, treat your palate to the flavours and decadence of Skof’s tasting menus.
Dinner service is available from Wednesday to Saturday, offering a choice between a 12- or 15-course menu. The dishes change with the seasons, so there’s always a delightful surprise.
For lunch, enjoy a shorter four-course menu every Thursday to Saturday. Pair your meal with one of the many standard alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks on the menu, or embark on an adventure with Skof’s signature craft beer.
Barburrito
Media from Barburrito
Address: Manchester Arndale, M4 1AZ
Phone: 161 832 5118
Pricing: £
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Good to know: Casual dining & takeaway; No reservations
If you’re on a budget or just looking for a quick, filling takeaway after your cathedral visit, we highly recommend dropping by Barburrito at Manchester Arndale.
You can choose between the regular burrito and its ‘naked’ version, the burrito bowl. The wrapped burritos come in various flavours, including the crowd favourite Loaded burrito, which has extra filling and guacamole on the side.
Another great thing about Barburrito is its vegan-friendliness, which is common in Mexican cuisine. Many items on the menu are clearly labelled for people with dietary restrictions, so this shop takes its food safety seriously.
Miller & Carter Manchester
Media from Miller & Carter UK
Address: 53 King St, M2 4LQ
Phone: 161 839 2846
Pricing: ££
Operating hours: Daily – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Good to know: Smart casual dress code; Reservations required
For juicy steaks after a long day of travel, head to Miller & Carter on King Street. This popular steakhouse chain is known not only for its delicious food but also for its welcoming table service.
Choose between a 30- or 50-day aged steak with your choice of salad and sauce. We particularly recommend the savoury beef dripping sauce, since it compliments the taste of the steak well.
If you’re looking to splurge a bit more, you can’t go wrong with a large serving of the châteaubriand. And, of course, you can definitely let the staff know your preferred doneness of the steak.
Masons
Media from Masons Restaurant Bar
Address: Ground Floor, Manchester Hall, 36 Bridge St, M3 3BT
Phone: 0161 359 6952
Pricing: £££
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 8:30 AM to 11:00 PM
Good to know: Smart casual dress code; Reservations required
After your meaningful visit to the Cathedral, why not drop by another iconic building, Manchester Hall? Known as the former home of the Freemasons, it features two masonry-themed restaurants, including Masons, which serves proper British cuisine.
One of the best times to visit Masons is during its Sunday lunch service (also known as the Sunday Roast), when mains like roast beef, roast chicken, and sea bass are abundant. These dishes come with roasted potatoes, carrots, and other veggies, overall a filling meal for the soul.
If you’re a seafood fan, you can also enjoy a piece or a platter of fresh shucked oysters.
The Pasta Factory
Media from The Pasta Factory
Address: 77 Shudehill, M4 4AN
Phone: 0161 222 9250
Pricing: ££
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Monday – CLOSED
Good to know: Great for kids and pets; the menu changes regularly
Handmade pasta is the speciality at The Pasta Factory. The skilled chefs at this Italian restaurant make all their pasta in-house daily, ensuring that only the freshest bowls and sauces come out of the kitchen.
The Pasta Factory’s exterior and interior design perfectly embody the culture it represents—simple yet stylish. For the food, you can never go wrong with ordering the spinach ravioli perfectly paired with tomato sauce, or the basil pesto that lifts the spirits.
Every weekend, there’s a lasagna special where The Pasta Factory takes on the challenge of reinventing this classic dish with new twists. Lastly, don’t forget the quintessential pairing of dessert and coffee: tiramisu.
Where to Stay near the Manchester Cathedral
Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station
Media from Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station
Website: Hotel Indigo Manchester
Address: 6 Todd St, M3 1WU
Contact Details: 0161 359 7499
Check-in Time: 3:00 PM
Check-out Time: 11:00 AM
So, you just finished your Manchester tour with a visit to the Cathedral—now what? We’re sure you’d love to wind down and end the day, and there’s nothing better than spending it in a hotel near your last stop.
With less than a 10-minute walk, you can relax at the hotel lounge or enjoy a meal at the popular dining spot, Mamucium, if you stay at Hotel Indigo Manchester.
This 4-star accommodation exudes modern British style with great amenities and hospitality. It’s also a stone’s throw away from other social and nightlife establishments, in case you’d like to party, too.
Roomzzz Aparthotels – Manchester Victoria
Media from Roomzzz Aparthotels
Website: Roomzzz – Manchester Victoria
Address: Corn Exchange, 37 Hanging Ditch, Exchange Sq, M4 3TR
Contact Details: 0161 870 1300
Check-in Time: 3:00 PM
Check-out Time: 11:00 AM
If you can’t wait to rest and don’t want to walk far any more after a tiring day, you’ll love Roomzzz Manchester. It’s in the historic Corn Exchange Building, right beside Manchester Cathedral.
Roomzzz isn’t your ordinary hotel. It’s a “home away from home” with a fully-fitted kitchen in every room—a perk for those who love to cook.
If cooking isn’t your thing, don’t worry about it as there’s a complimentary breakfast with bread, fruit, and hot drinks to start your morning strong. Moreover, there’s always the option to eat out since you’re in the middle of the busy Manc!
Motel One Manchester – Royal Exchange
Media from Motel One
Website: Motel One Manchester
Address: 11 – 15 Cross St, M2 1WD
Contact Details: 0161 228 0800
Check-in Time: 3:00 PM
Check-out Time: 12:00 PM
In case you didn’t know, there’s a great place to stay at the Royal Exchange Building. This historic structure is also within walking distance of the Cathedral, making it worth checking out!
This iteration of the Motel One brand pays great homage to the city’s textile history, with modernised interiors that still keep the industrial textile charm. Linen and mill-related artefacts looming (pun intended) around the premises.
The stay here is comfy enough; our only gripe is the lack of a complimentary breakfast for guests. If you’d like to have some, you’ll need to pay separately for access to the morning buffet.
Premier Inn – Manchester City Centre West
Media from Premier Inn
Website: Premier Inn – Manchester City Centre West
Address: Irwell Street, Salford, M3 5EN
Contact Details: 0333 321 9367
Check-in Time: 3:00 PM
Check-out Time: 12:00 PM
Fead to the Premier Inn Manchester City Centre West for strategic access to the finance districts of Spinningfields and Deansgate, with a quaint view of the River Irwell. This three-star hotel balances comfort and economy for travellers.
The rooms here have that typical modern hotel look, but noticeably simpler than other well-known hotel chains. Standard amenities like Wi-Fi, a tea kettle, and hair dryers are available in all room tiers.
However, the Premier Inn lacks one important feature: a car park. If you’re travelling by car, you’ll need to park overnight at nearby parking buildings, which are thankfully just a short walk from the hotel.
Moxy Manchester City Hotel
Media from Moxy Manchester
Website: Moxy Manchester City Hotel
Address: 8 Atkinson St, M3 3HH
Contact Details: 0161 529 1655
Check-in Time: 3:00 PM
Check-out Time: 11:00 PM
Moxy is a lovely hotel with a brilliant theme. Aside from the typical accommodation function, this stay features an in-house bar that transforms from a café by day into a cocktail bar by night, making it a popular social space.
It’s a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing around the city, especially since it’s less than 10 minutes away from Manchester Cathedral. The rooms are sleek and modern, with a clean Scandinavian chic design.
However, because of the eclectic (and dare we say, adult) vibe of the place, only guests aged 18 and up can book a room here.
Where to Shop Near the Manchester Cathedral
The Manchester Shop
Media from The Manchester Shop
Address: Ground Floor, Afflecks Arcade, 35 – 39 Oldham St, Northern Quarter, M1 1JG
Phone: 0161 819 1973
Pricing: ££
Operating hours: Daily – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
A visit to Manchester wouldn’t be complete without a souvenir, and in our opinion, nothing matches the items from The Manchester Shop. Merchandise here is often adorned with the city’s iconic worker bee symbol.
Drop by The Manchester Shop any day for the best and latest Manchester-centric gift items like shirts, mugs, and socks stamped with the bee logo.
You’ll also find a host of Mancunian pop culture-related items featuring witty lines about your favourite bands like Oasis and Joy Division.
All in all, you can always show off that you’re Manc (or have been in Manc, if just visiting) and proud with the help of this shop.
Søstrene Grene
Address: 12-14 Cross St, M2 7AE
Phone: 0161 832 5500
Pricing: ££
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Søstrene Grene is a Nordic gift shop at Cross Street’s Royal Exchange Theatre. It’s filled with household decor, DIY items, and other knick-knacks that are great for enjoying yourself or giving as gifts to special people in your life.
Shopping at Søstrene Grene is a pleasant and calming experience, thanks to the shop’s aesthetic displays and extensive use of classical background music.
Surprisingly, this level of beauty doesn’t come with a steep price tag, as most items are reasonably priced.
We highly recommend this shop if you’re looking for pretty items after attending a service at the Manchester Cathedral.
Manchester Craft & Design Centre
Media from Manchester Craft & Design Centre
Address: 17 Oak St, Northern Quarter, M4 5JD
Phone: 0161 832 4274
Pricing: ££
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
For truly unique artistic gifts and souvenirs from Manchester, consider supporting the city’s home-grown artists at the Manchester Craft & Design Centre.
The building itself is a repurposed Victorian-era fish market, so don’t be surprised by the quirky and artistic exhibits that will welcome you once you enter the centre. You can watch artists in the element working at the studios here, as well as take home their art that’s for sale.
Common items you can get at the Craft & Design Centre are ceramics, jewellery, prints, and homeware. If you get hungry while walking along the exhibits, there’s also an English-style café in the premises.
Afflecks
Media from AFFLECKS
Address: 52 Church St, Northern Quarter, M4 1PW
Phone: 0161 839 0718
Pricing: ££
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Experience the best of the Northern Quarter’s culture with a visit to Afflecks after a tour of the Manchester Cathedral. Established in 1982, this emporium is home to over 60 shops with eclectic and Bohemian tastes.
Although it’s in a typical Mancunian brick structure, its exterior has been transformed into an icon. You can’t miss its facade, adorned with art and mosaic tile signage.
The best things to get here are unique pieces of clothing (usually vintage pieces), quirky jewellery and accessories, and even some rare collectible items. Even if you’re not a local, we’re sure you’ll appreciate Afflecks overall.
T. La Art & Craft Gallery (Oriental World)
Media from izadamo
Address: 16 Nicholas St, M1 4EJ
Phone: 0161 236 2333
Pricing: £
Operating hours: Daily – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
For a unique souvenir different from the typical Mancunian offerings, take a 15-minute walk towards Chinatown to reach T. La Art & Craft Gallery. This long-standing and popular shop has been a fixture in the area since 1986, selling a wide range of Asian trinkets and gift items.
The most common fixtures in the gallery are Buddha statues and lucky cat figurines. You’ll also find a vast variety of gift items like chopsticks, incense, decorative china, and Chinese calligraphy supplies.
With its colourful and eclectic array of items, there’s never a dull moment at T. La Art & Craft Gallery.
Other Stuff to Do near the Manchester Cathedral
Manchester is a great city in its own right, with many places to go to and enjoy aside from the historic cathedral. Here’s a short list of activities that might interest you:
- Take a stroll at the Cathedral Gardens. This fairly new public park is a refuge to nature in the middle of bustling Manchester.
- Learn the history of footy at the National Football Museum. Just beside the Cathedral Gardens is where you can dig deeper into everything about the UK’s most popular sport.
- Strike that red target at Whistle Punks Urban Axe Throwing. Channel your negative feelings or sharpen your axe-throwing aim safely in this speciality bar.
- Attend an event at AO Arena. Schedule your cathedral visit just in time for an international concert or event at this arena, and you’re golden!
- Shop ‘til you drop at Manchester Arndale. This popular shopping centre has got it all for locals and travellers alike.
- Try to escape in time at Breakout Manchester Church St. Exercise your brain cells with themed escape rooms—are you up for the challenge?
