Freemasons Hall reopens after a multi-million refit
MANCHESTER’S Freemasons Hall has reopened after a multi-million pound refurbishment.
The Manchester Masonic centre held its official open evening inside Manchester Hall last week.
Over the last two years, the iconic Grade II-listed building, on Bridge Street, has been transformed to house a boutique events space, several restaurants and bars.
It has hosted regular Freemasons meetings, events and ceremonies since it was first opened in 1929.
And the Freemasons have continued to lease the third floor of the building for their own private use.
The architectural features of this hidden gem have been preserved but the rooms have been given a makeover. The Freemasons are now ready to reveal their stunning renovation, which includes a memorial and eternal light dedicated to the Freemasons who lost their lives in the Second World War.
Those involved in the redevelopment said: “We are really proud of the stunning work of the new Manchester Masonic Centre, the space will be a hub for members to socialise and for new members joining Freemasonry to benefit from their new surroundings.”
Select guests and Freemason members were invited to the drinks reception and tour of the centre on January 15. Guests included Provincial Grand Master for East Lancashire Sir David Trippier and his wife Lady Ruth and Most Worshipful Brother Peter Geoffrey Lowndes, the Pro Grand Master, who officially opened the new Masonic Centre.
New owners have spent two years reinventing the stunning Art Deco building as Manchester Hall - which officially opened in November.
They have worked closely with English Heritage to restore and refurbish the building.
Many original features have been preserved or re-purposed inside, including a reception desk built out of an old organ previously stationed in a lodge room upstairs, which now greets guests as they walk in.
Spanish tapas bar Pintura and pan-Asian bar and restaurant Fable are also due to open this year.
Six luxury hotel rooms are also set to open this year along with what will be Manchester’s largest rooftop terrace.