Discover St Mary’s Church Manchester
Over the years we have shone a spotlight on many secret corners of the world, directing you to hundreds of unique and quirky hidden gems. But while many have claimed such a title, St Mary’s Church Manchester, literally is “The Hidden Gem.”
But wait, why is St Mary's Church known as "The Hidden Gem"? Well, first off, its location plays a major part in the magic. Situated on Mulberry Street and almost camouflaged between the modern giants of Manchester’s city centre, St Mary’s is the kind of place you might pass by without a second thought—if you’re not looking for it.
Its unassuming red brick exterior and cosy setting might fool you into thinking it’s just another building. But, just like that unexpected plot twist in your favourite novel, venture through its beautifully carved stone doorway and you’ll discover there’s a lot more sparkle to this little wonder than meets the eye! Read on to find out for yourself.
The History of St Mary’s Church Manchester
In 1794, St Mary’s Church Manchester was established (thanks in part to Father Roland Broomhead) for the city’s less fortunate residents. Shortly after its establishment, Father Edward Kenyon took the helm as the first official Rector, marking the church’s official opening on 30th November 1794.
The Collapse of the Church Roof
Like many historic landmarks, St Mary’s Church Manchester has seen its fair share of ups and downs. However, in the early 19th century, efforts to spruce up the building led to a fateful misstep. Under Father Henry Gillow’s direction, the church underwent a re-roofing and redecoration project that unfortunately lacked the oversight of a seasoned master builder.
The result? A crack in the dome appeared in 1835, soon followed by a dramatic collapse of the dome and part of the roof. This unexpected disaster forced the community to seek refuge in a nearby school while plans for a new site—and eventually a complete rebuild—took shape.
The Church’s Rebuild
Determined to keep the spirit of St Mary’s Church Manchester alive, the church was rebuilt on the same much-loved site. Spearheaded by Father Mathias Formby and designed by the renowned architects Weightman & Hadfield, the new structure took shape in a striking Rhenish Romanesque style and was completed in 1848. This fresh start not only restored the church’s presence but also set the stage for its future reputation as a local wonder.
St Mary’s Church Architecture
St Mary’s Exterior
“No matter which side of the church you look at, you behold a hidden gem.”
At first glance, the exterior of St Mary’s Church might seem to blend in with Manchester’s classic red brick architecture. But don’t be fooled—this isn’t just your regular brick-and-mortar structure. The building also has an eye-catching bell tower that looms above its peers, along with stone-dressed windows that add a touch of sophistication to the overall look.
One of the main external features is the intricately carved stone doorway. This isn’t your everyday entrance—it’s adorned with two angelic figures, each carrying a medallion that hints at the divine (a nod to the Lamb of God, or Agnus Dei, for those in the know). Crowning the doorway is a hand carving that beautifully symbolizes the Ascension of Christ, all accompanied by a Latin inscription:
"Ascendamus in montem Domini. Et adoremus in loco Sancto eius."
This poetic message, combining inspirations from Isaiah and Psalms, warmly invites visitors to ascend into a place of reverence and beauty.
St Mary’s Interior
Once you step through that carved stone doorway “The Hidden Gem” of Manchester unfolds like a treasure chest of Victorian elegance and artistic brilliance. Here’s a peek at what awaits:
- Sculptures & Carvings: Commissioned by Father John Newton in 1869, the interior is graced with life-size statues of important spiritual figures such as Our Lady, St Stephen, St Patrick, St Peter, St John, St Hilda, St Augustine, and St Joseph.
- The Majestic High Altar: Crafted from marble and crowned by a meticulously carved Caen stone reredos, the high altar is a showstopper. At its heart, above the Tabernacle, is a moving depiction of Christ bearing the Sacred Heart.
- Chapels: Tucked within the interior are intimate spaces like the Pietà Chapel and the Lady Chapel, which houses the Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Manchester.
- Modern Art: In a delightful clash of styles, the church also features 14 expressionist paintings known as ‘The Adams Stations.’ Created by the late British artist Norman Adams RA in 1994, these works add a bold burst of colour and contemporary edge.
- Other Modern Touches: History has never stopped evolving at St Mary’s. In the aftermath of the First World War, a memorial meeting room was added. Fast forward to the early 1990s, the church and its adjoining presbytery underwent a huge restoration.
“The Hidden Gem”: Beyond the Brick and Mortar
“The Hidden Gem” is more than a place of worship, it's part of the city’s cultural make up, hosting many vital ceremonies and events over the years. For instance, in the 19th century, Father George Ignatius Spencer, an ancestor of Diana, Princess of Wales, was among those who preached within its walls.
At one point the church even welcomed the world-renowned Italian opera singer, Beniamino Gigli, to perform at High Mass. Oh, and did you know? In 1988, Granada Television broadcasted Sunday Mass from here, and the response from across the British Isles was phenomenal!
It’s no wonder that St Mary’s Church Manchester has also inspired some of the great artists of our time. The nature of its interior and exterior has caught the eye of painters like L.S. Lowry and local talent Harold Riley.
Visiting St Mary’s Church Manchester
How to Find “The Hidden Gem”
Due to its rather concealed location, on Mulberry Street between Albert Square, John Dalton Street, and Deansgate, St Mary’s Church is easy to miss if you’re not looking. But once you’re there prepare to be welcomed with open arms—just remember to be respectful, as it’s a working religious site. On a typical Sunday, you can expect:
- 8:30 am: Doors open.
- 9:00 – 9:45 am: Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions.
- 10:00 am & 12:00 pm: Holy Mass.
- After Mass: The church closes for the day.
Mass times vary throughout the week, so it’s a good idea to check ahead.
Getting There
Traveling to St Mary’s Church Manchester is a breeze. The church is easily accessible from Deansgate (0.8 miles) or Manchester Piccadilly (0.9 miles), with the St James Square bus station just a three-minute walk away. Multiple bus routes (100, 135, 192, 202, 34A, 37, 41, 67A), as well as Northern and Transport for Wales trains and the Pink Line light rail, ensure you’re well connected.
For those driving, parking is manageable. Nearby options include Renaissance Blackfriars Street (£5.45 for 2 hours) and Marks & Spencer (£7 for 2 hours).
And the best part? Entry to St Mary’s Church Manchester is completely free, making it an ideal stop on your day of discovery.
Explore Beyond St Mary’s Church Manchester with CityDays
Once you've sussed out the true hidden gem that is St Mary’s Church, why not continue your adventure around Manchester with a CityDays’ Treasure Hunt?
Treasure Hunt tours are a great way to bring family and friends—or even dates—together for an afternoon of great fun and adventure, solving clues and snapping photos. Clues will lead you to the big sights and those that you'd walk straight past.
For more information about our Manchester Treasure Hunts then click here: Manchester Treasure & Scavenger Hunts | CityDays.
