City · Manchester, Greater Manchester

Manchester Central Library

1930s library in St Peter's Square, central Manchester, with event spaces for hire.

At this venue Exclusive use City location Historic building Seated meal facilities External catering allowed Ballroom or hall Live music Wedding coordinator

Manchester Central Library is a landmark circular building in St Peter's Square in the middle of the city. It was designed in the 1930s and opened as a public library, and it is now also hired out for events. Its spaces include a ground floor Performance Space that can be split into separate areas.

Why it suits LGBTQ+ couples

GLW recommends the Library for couples who want a civic, architectural setting rather than a hotel. It is a public building with a long history in the centre of Manchester, and it gives you a backdrop with real character. Exclusive use is listed as available, which lets you shape the space around your own plans. Because the venue is not a standard wedding hotel, it suits couples who want to design the day themselves.

Ceremonies

The Performance Space on the ground floor can be divided into three areas and fully blacked out for projection, with audio facilities. It holds 120 seated theatre style or 60 cabaret style, and an adjoining mezzanine can sometimes add seating. Ask the events team how a ceremony would be laid out and whether the space is licensed for marriage on your date.

Receptions and food

The venue is listed as offering both in-house catering and the option to bring in an outside caterer, with a charge if you bring your own alcohol. Listings give figures of around 50 guests for dining and 100 for a reception. Check these numbers with the events team before you plan your guest list, as they depend on the room and layout.

Getting there and the area

The Library is in St Peter's Square, M2 5PD, next to the tram stop of the same name, and a short walk from Manchester Oxford Road and Piccadilly stations. Town Hall, the Midland Hotel and many restaurants are close by, so guests staying nearby can walk to the venue. The venue is listed as having disabled access.

Good to know

Performance Space holds 120 theatre style or 60 cabaret style.
Exclusive use and an in-house coordinator are listed.
Confirm wedding licence and dates with the events team.

Frequently asked questions

Can we bring our own caterer?

Listings say you can use in-house catering or an outside caterer. A corkage charge applies to your own alcohol.

How many guests can it hold?

The Performance Space holds 120 theatre style or 60 cabaret style. Listings suggest around 50 for dining and 100 for a reception, so confirm with the venue.

Is the building accessible?

The venue is listed as having disabled access. Ask the events team for details of routes and lifts.