44 Must-See Literary Landmarks in the United Kingdom

31. The John Rylands Library, A Neo-Gothic Literary Wonderland in Manchester

Step into the grandeur of the John Rylands Library, one of the most visually striking and historically significant literary landmarks in the UK. Located in the heart of Manchester, this awe-inspiring neo-Gothic masterpiece is more than just a library—it is a sanctuary of knowledge, art, and storytelling. Built in 1899 by Enriqueta Rylands in memory of her husband, John Rylands, the library stands as a testament to the power of literature and learning. Its soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate stone carvings, and vast stained-glass windows create an almost cathedral-like atmosphere, transporting visitors into a world where books are revered as treasures. Housing an extensive collection of rare manuscripts, early printed books, and historical documents, the John Rylands Library is a literary pilgrimage site for scholars and book lovers alike. Among its most prized possessions is a fragment of the St John’s Gospel, one of the oldest surviving pieces of the New Testament, dating back to the 2nd century. The library also boasts a remarkable collection of medieval manuscripts, early editions of William Shakespeare’s works, and personal letters from some of history’s greatest writers.