Step into Chetham's Library, and you’re stepping into a living history book. This centuries-old institution isn’t just packed with tens of thousands of rare volumes—it’s a masterpiece of architecture, with soaring domes and intricate carvings that echo the grandeur of scholarship. Sit by the window, leaf through an old tome as sunlight dances across the pages, and feel time slow down while inspiration floods in.

This hotel is truly unique! Housed in a magnificent Victorian-era Grade II listed building dating back to 1890, it now stands as a destination where luxury meets distinctive craftsmanship. Enjoy amenities like the executive floors, meeting rooms, bar, and café, or unwind in the home theater and game room—perfect for both business and family trips. Plus, it’s pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along! Conveniently located near Oxford St, it’s easy to hail a cab. Staying here, you’ll experience Manchester’s blend of tradition and modernity—an unforgettable stay!

Looking for luxury and convenience in Manchester? This hotel is the perfect choice for you! Located in the city center, it’s just a 5-minute walk to Manchester Town Hall, with nearby attractions like Bridgewater Hall and the National Football Museum. Enjoy spa treatments, an indoor pool, and a sauna for ultimate relaxation. With free WiFi, concierge services, and 24-hour room service, your stay will be nothing short of comfortable. Chinese-friendly services and kids’ meals make it ideal for family trips. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!

This hotel is the epitome of luxury in Manchester! Located in the city center, just a 5-minute walk to Deansgate and Piccadilly Gardens, it’s incredibly convenient. Enjoy free WiFi, concierge services, and wedding planning services, plus rooms with heated floors for ultimate comfort. After a busy day, unwind at the bar/lounge or savor a delicious meal. With 24-hour airport shuttle and parking facilities, your travel needs are covered. Perfect for both business and leisure!

This hotel is perfect for both families and business travelers! Located in the heart of Manchester, just a 5-minute walk from Piccadilly Gardens. With a kids' play area and family-friendly amenities, it’s a great choice for parents. The executive lounge and 24-hour business center make work trips a breeze. Rooms are spacious and cozy, featuring free WiFi and LCD TVs. Plus, their Chinese-friendly service is exceptional, and you’ll love the buffet breakfast and 24-hour room service. A top pick for comfort and convenience!

Nestled in the vibrant innovation district of Manchester, this hotel boasts an ideal location just a short walk from major transport hubs and attractions. As the first Hyatt House in the UK, it offers comprehensive amenities including a fitness center, meeting rooms, and services tailored for Chinese guests, plus kid-friendly dining options. With a stellar 4.8 rating, it’s perfect for both business and leisure travelers seeking comfort and convenience.







Everything you need to know about Chetham's Library
Near Chetham's Library in Manchester, The Lowry Hotel stands out for its prime location just a 5-minute walk away. This stylish hotel blends modern architecture with historical charm, offering rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the River Irwell. The rooftop Sky Bar delivers panoramic views of the city skyline and is perfect for evening relaxation. With easy access to Manchester Central Station and the Metrolink tram system, it’s ideal for both cultural explorers and business travelers seeking convenience and elegance.
From Manchester city center, take the Metrolink light rail to "Piccadilly Gardens," then transfer to the line heading to "Deansgate-Castlefield." Exit at the stop and walk 8 minutes to Chetham's Library—this journey takes just 15 minutes and costs around £2.50. Alternatively, bus routes 13 or 63 serve the "Chetham's Library" stop directly, passing through historic parts of the city center. Use apps like Citymapper or National Rail App for real-time schedules and route optimization, ensuring a seamless trip.
Near Chetham's Library, visitors can join historic manuscript tours that reveal the library’s legacy as England’s oldest public library, housing over 600,000 rare books including 16th-century manuscripts and early printed works. Weekends often feature literary talks and poetry readings by renowned authors and academics. During the Manchester Literature Festival, outdoor reading pods pop up nearby, combining café culture with street art. For music lovers, a short walk leads to the Royal Manchester Concert Hall, where classical performances bring the city’s vibrant cultural scene to life.
Yes, The Lowry Hotel offers excellent accommodations for families, featuring family suites with child-safe beds, toy boxes, and kid-sized toiletries. The on-site restaurant provides a dedicated children’s menu and an interactive play area. The library itself hosts family-friendly guided tours where kids engage in historical role-play, turning learning into fun. Nearby attractions include the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry and the Children’s Museum, both within a 15-minute walk, making it a perfect destination for educational and entertaining family outings.
Manchester City Centre Marriott Hotel is a top choice near Chetham's Library, just 1.5 km away with excellent public transport links. The hotel offers modern rooms, free parking, and a fitness center. Easily accessible by foot or metro, it's ideal for scholars, tourists, and business travelers. Nearby attractions include Manchester Cathedral and the Royal Theatre, blending academic heritage with vibrant city life.
Take the Manchester Metrolink tram from the city centre to the "Chetham's Library" stop—just a 10-minute ride. The station is directly outside the library entrance, making access effortless. Trams run frequently and offer affordable fares. Alternatively, you can walk (about 20 minutes) or take a taxi, but the tram remains the most convenient and scenic option, especially for visitors exploring the city’s historic and academic heart.
Beyond its world-class collection of rare manuscripts, Chetham's Library hosts regular historical lectures and literary salons featuring scholars and authors discussing British literature and religious history. The library’s 17th-century reading room offers an authentic glimpse into classical academic life. The building itself stands on the site of a 15th-century monastery, blending Gothic and Renaissance architecture—a must-see for architectural enthusiasts. Nearby 'Old Town' district is filled with independent bookshops and cafés, creating a rich atmosphere of intellectual and cultural vibrancy.
Holiday Inn Manchester City Centre is a top family-friendly option just 1.8 km from Chetham's Library, offering spacious family rooms, a children’s playroom, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The hotel features a breakfast buffet and airport transfer services. Nearby attractions include the Science and Industry Museum and major shopping centers, perfect for family outings. With a Metrolink tram stop within a 5-minute walk, it’s ideal for families seeking comfort, convenience, and kid-friendly amenities during their visit to Manchester.
Chetham's Library is open to the public from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday to Friday, and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Saturday, closed on Sundays. It’s recommended to book a guided tour in advance, especially during term time when visitor numbers increase. Temporary entry is not permitted; visitors must register with valid ID. Food and photography are prohibited inside, though designated photo areas are available for research purposes. Regular hours make it a reliable destination for scholars and history enthusiasts planning visits.
Highlights include a 14th-century illuminated Bible manuscript, the First Folio of Shakespeare, and early drafts by George Eliot. These treasures were donated by founder Thomas Chetham in 1653 and remain housed in original wooden cabinets, reflecting exceptional historical significance. The library features climate-controlled glass cases with professional lighting to preserve the documents. An annual Rare Books Exhibition draws scholars and visitors worldwide, cementing Chetham's as one of the UK’s most important public libraries for literary and archival heritage.
See what other travelers say about Chetham's Library

Staying at the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel in Manchester was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to Oxford Road Station and even more convenient to Piccadilly Station, making it easy to explore the city without relying on taxis or buses. A quick left turn from the hotel leads straight into the heart of the University of Manchester, giving you that vibrant student energy right outside your door. Walking into the lobby felt like stepping into a beautifully curated art gallery—elegant, modern, and full of character. The hotel itself is spacious, so much so that I actually got slightly lost once! But that just added to the charm. My room was huge—four suitcases could be opened at once—and had a real personality with its vintage vinyl record player. Cleanliness? Spotless. Attention to detail? Outstanding. From the thoughtful touches to the warm staff, every aspect felt intentional. This isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s an experience. If I’m ever back in Manchester, this will be my first choice again. Highly recommend for travelers who value style, comfort, and convenience.

This was my 7th stay at this hotel, and I’m still thoroughly impressed. While the price has gone up slightly each year, it still offers excellent value compared to other options in the area. Just a short walk away is the hotel where the Prime Minister once stayed—there’s something special about that. The Christmas market this year was absolutely stunning, with beautiful lights and charming stalls creating a magical atmosphere. I spent hours just wandering around enjoying the festive vibe. The location is super convenient for getting into town via public transit, and the staff continue to be warm, professional, and attentive. Definitely a place I’ll return to again and again.

Staying at this hotel was an absolute highlight of my trip to Manchester! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the city center, with great access to shops, restaurants, and attractions. The room was incredibly quiet, which made for a peaceful and restful night’s sleep despite being in a bustling urban area. The staff were genuinely warm and welcoming—always smiling, helpful, and attentive without being intrusive. What really stood out was breakfast: the chef personally served us each dish, adding such a personal touch. The food was fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented. I’ve stayed at many hotels before, but this one truly exceeded expectations. It’s not just about comfort or style—it’s the little details that make it special. I’d absolutely book here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Manchester.

Staying at the Holiday Inn Manchester - City Centre was a fantastic experience overall. The hotel's location is unbeatable—right next to the train station, making it super convenient for exploring Manchester on foot or by public transit. While it’s considered a four-star property in the UK, I’d say it matches the quality of a mid-range budget hotel back home, which is actually quite impressive here. The breakfast spread was generous and varied, offering both local favorites and classic Western options—perfect for starting the day right. One minor downside was the room being close to the street, with trams passing by occasionally, so there was some noise. However, since we only stayed one night and had already done a long city walk, it didn’t bother me much. Best part? We asked for a late check-out until 1 PM, and they happily accommodated us—much more relaxed than most UK hotels that require checkout by 11 AM. With breakfast included and the price under £80 per night, this was definitely a great value for money. Highly recommend this hotel for travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and excellent service.

Staying at Hyatt House Manchester was an absolutely fantastic experience. Located just steps away from the University of Manchester, it's perfect for both business and leisure travelers—especially if you're here to catch a Premier League match like we were. The room was spacious by UK standards, and when we booked two rooms, we were upgraded to a suite at no extra cost—such a pleasant surprise! The staff went above and beyond, particularly one Asian manager at the front desk who helped arrange transportation with genuine care and attention. The hotel is clean, modern, and well-maintained throughout. It’s clear they value guest satisfaction. I’ve already planned my next trip back—this place truly stands out, and I’d recommend it without hesitation.

This has been the most satisfying hotel stay during all my business trips. The facilities are brand new, the environment is spotless, and the room was immaculate—every corner felt clean and well-maintained. The breakfast spread was generous and delicious, with a great variety of options. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout our stay. Right outside the door is Manchester University, and it's only a 10-15 minute walk to the city center—super convenient for exploring or commuting. Honestly, this exceeded my expectations. I stayed at a £300+ hotel in London just a few days prior, and this Hyatt easily outshines it in every way. If you're visiting Manchester, this is definitely a top pick—worth every penny.

Staying at the voco Manchester - City Centre was an absolute delight. Located right in the heart of Manchester, it's just a short walk from Chinatown—literally one corner away—and incredibly convenient for exploring the city on foot or via public transit. The room was spacious and comfortable, with excellent air conditioning that kept things cool and cozy throughout our stay. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, varied, and well-prepared, with plenty of hot options and local favorites. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed, from the modern decor to the attentive staff. If you're visiting Manchester, this hotel offers unbeatable value and comfort. Highly recommended!

Staying at Whitworth Locke in Manchester was an absolute highlight of my trip! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to the city center, and everything you need is within reach: great restaurants, local shops, and vibrant street life. The apartment-style room was spacious, well-designed, and fully equipped with modern amenities. I especially loved having a kitchenette—it made it so easy to prepare simple meals and save money while enjoying the comfort of home. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and I slept like a baby every night. The staff were warm, welcoming, and always ready to help with any request—no matter how small. Their professionalism and friendliness really made the stay feel personal and relaxing. From start to finish, this place exceeded my expectations. If you're visiting Manchester, this is definitely where I’d recommend staying again and again.

Staying at this Residence Inn was an absolute pleasure from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the city center, making it easy to explore all the sights and shops without needing to rely on transport. The apartment itself is spacious, clean, and beautifully modern, with everything you’d need for a comfortable stay. I especially appreciated having a kitchenette—being able to prepare simple meals saved time and money. There’s a supermarket just steps away, which made grocery runs super convenient. The breakfast spread was fresh, varied, and delicious. The staff went above and beyond with their warm hospitality and helpfulness. Parking was easily accessible and well-organized. Overall, this hotel delivers excellent value and comfort. I wouldn’t hesitate to book again if I’m ever back in Manchester.

Staying at Cove Minshull Street was an absolute pleasure. Just a 5-minute walk to Piccadilly Train Station and only 1 minute from the coach terminal—getting around Manchester is so convenient. The hotel is perfectly located near the downtown shopping district and Chinatown, making it easy to explore local restaurants, shops, and cultural spots. The room was spacious and fully equipped with a kitchenette and a washing machine—perfect for longer stays or even self-catering trips. Clean, comfortable, and well-located, this place offers great value for money. Highly recommend for travelers who want a homey feel without sacrificing convenience.

I recently stayed at ibis Manchester Centre Princess Street and was truly impressed by the entire experience. The facilities are modern and well-maintained—everything from the comfortable beds to the clean, functional bathrooms made for a relaxing stay. The cleanliness throughout the hotel was outstanding; every corner felt fresh and hygienic, which is always a top priority for me. The atmosphere is quiet and welcoming, with good ventilation and a nice layout that makes the space feel open and airy. What really stood out was the staff—they were friendly, professional, and went above and beyond to assist with my travel needs. Their warm attitude made a big difference in making my trip enjoyable. I’d definitely recommend this hotel and will be returning next time I visit Manchester. Excellent value, great location, and a wonderful overall experience.

I've stayed in many places across Manchester over the past 15 years, and this one truly stands out as the best by far. I genuinely wish I'd discovered it sooner! The value for money is exceptional—every aspect of the stay exceeded my expectations. Located right in the heart of the city, it's surrounded by fantastic amenities, from lively bars to great restaurants, all within walking distance. Public transport links are excellent too—Manchester Victoria and Piccadilly stations are just a short walk away, making day trips to places like Trafford Centre or exploring other parts of the North West incredibly easy. The apartment itself was spacious and thoughtfully designed, with a super comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The room was completely quiet, which was perfect after a long day. The bathroom and kitchen were both top-notch—plenty of utensils and appliances, so cooking during my stay was a breeze. Even better, the staff were warm, welcoming, and created a friendly, almost family-like atmosphere that made the whole experience feel special. Highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Manchester.
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