Located on the site of the former St Michael's Church (which was once described as "the ugliest church in Manchester ") the site and area has a rich historical heritage. The church was demolished in 1935, but some grave stones from the churchyard remain. The Angel Meadow, lower section, of the site became the largest pauper burial ground in Manchester, and it's estimated that 40,000 poor people were buried here between 1788 and 1816.
The historic buildings - such as the two former 'Ragged schools', factories and warehouses - which adjoin the site bear witness to the poverty of this former slum area. Engels referred to this area as ' Irish Town ', whilst Charles Dickens is said to have been inspired by the area to create the fictional workhouse in 'Hard Times'.
A set of steps is featured in several of LS Lowry's paintings, including 'View of a Town', 1936 and ' Britain at Play', 1943
Location:
Angel Street is located off Rochdale Rd (A664)
Size:
3 hectares
Links:
This site is the 'City Gateway' to the Irk Valley. A short walk down Aspin Lane then onto Dantzic Street reveals the River Irk.
Recreation and Usage:
Urban community green space and city centre gateway to the Irk Valley
There are disabled entrances at Style Street and Old Mount Street.
Contact us about St Michael's and Angel Meadow by email to parks@manchester.gov.uk