Former Bank of England

The Former Bank of England in Manchester is a three-story building made of sandstone and Portland limestone with giant columns and a pediment across its facade. The interior features a barrel vault that opens into a saucer dome, supported by four cast-iron Tuscan columns with pierced capitals.

The building was completed in 1846 by architect Charles Robert Cockerell and operated as a Bank of England branch for over a century. It ceased banking operations in 1970 and has since been adapted for other uses.

The building reflects Manchester's rise as a financial center during the industrial era and demonstrates through its design the city's economic importance. Its grand appearance served as a statement of the financial confidence and success that characterized the period.

The building is located on King Street and now functions as office space while preserving its original architectural features. Visitors can easily explore the street on foot and appreciate the classical facade details from the exterior.

The interior contains a remarkable engineering feature where a barrel vault transitions elegantly into a saucer dome, a structural solution that showcases 19th century craftsmanship. This space is rarely visible to the public since the building now serves as offices.

Location: Manchester

Inception: 1846

Architects: Charles Robert Cockerell

Floors above the ground: 3

Made from material: sandstone, Portland limestone

GPS coordinates: 53.48140,-2.24339

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:57