Visiting the Rylands

The John Rylands Research Institute and Library is a stunning neo-Gothic Grade 1 purpose-built library that houses one of the world’s finest collections of rare books, manuscripts and archives.

Plan your visit

Open Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm (last entry at 4.45pm).
Free entry, no booking required.
From Wednesday 14 August, 2024, the way you visit us is changing.
At busier times it may be necessary to limit the number of visitors to protect our Grade 1 listed building, so we may ask you to queue outside prior to entry.
Accessible entrance and lift access is available. For full information, visit our Accessibility page.

The John Rylands Next Chapter project

We're working to improve our exhibition and event spaces so you can better enjoy our collections.

From February 2024, work will begin on the John Rylands Next Chapter project. Whilst the work is taking place, we are still open but how you visit is changing.

Visits from 14 August

From Wednesday, 14 August 2024 until early 2025, a booking system will be in place to ensure that as many visitors as possible can enjoy the Rylands safely during this period.

Free, ticketed entry is available on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Visit Eventbrite to find out more and to book your visit. Only pre-booked tickets will guarantee entry.

No more than four tickets can be booked at any one time. During this time group bookings of more than 4 people cannot be accommodated.