Charles Dickens and his Manchester Connections

Date: 7 March 2026
Time: 5-6.30pm
Location: The Portico Library,
57 Mosley Street,
Manchester M2 3HY

Did you know that Charles Dickens was a regular visitor to Manchester? Or that he visited the Portico Library in 1844? That he performed on stage in the city, that Manchester played a crucial role in the creation of one of his most famous books, or that his much-loved sister made her home here?

Come along to the Portico Library on 7 March to hear Lucinda Hawksley (great great great granddaughter of Charles and Catherine Dickens) uncover more about the author’s connections with the city.

There will be a chance to see some first editions of Dickens’ books and his sign in in the Portico Stranger’s Book. This is a fundraising activity for Portico Reunited.