It offers visitors a ‘unique and magical experience’
Chetham’s Library is offering an exclusive after-hours tour this December (Image: Universal Images Group via Getty)
One of Manchester’s oldest buildings is opening its doors for visitors this month for night only, giving them a chance to experience it all decked out for Christmas. Chetham’s Library is the oldest public library in the English-speaking world and is located in the heart of the city.
Nestled inside the Chetham’s School of Music on Long Millgate in the city centre, this magnificent medieval building dates back to 1421. This makes it several centuries older than John Rylands, Manchester’s other famous historical library.
The library has been in continuous use since 1653 and features over 100,000 printed books, with more than half dating back to before 1851. With atmospheric dark-wood panelling and stacks upon stacks of books, stepping inside the library really does feel like entering a different world – and one that feels even more magical at this time of the year.
Now visitors can experience the library after hours while it’s decorated for Christmas as it opens exclusively after-hours on Friday, December 19. It’s a chance to explore the library’s medieval stone passages and secret staircases, and marvel at all of the books.
The library will be decorated for Christmas (Image: ©Sara Porter)
It’s the sort of place which feels like it’s straight out of Hogwarts or from a Charles Dickens’ novel. The after-hours visit takes place once the library has closed to the public and night has fallen.
Visitors will be able to see inside rooms and passageways which are normally closed to the public, for a ‘unique and magical experience’. A tour guide will take around this impressive 600-year-old building, explaining its history and sharing its secrets.
Visitors can experience the library once it has closed to the public (Image: Manchester Evening News)
The after-hours tour takes place on Friday, December 19 at 6pm. Tickets cost £13 and can be bought on the library’s website here. The tour is suitable for adults and young people over 14.
It’s important to note that due to the nature of the building, lighting will be low in some areas. All proceeds from ticket sales will go towards supporting Chetham’s library and the medieval buildings.
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