Friends of The Whitworth Art Gallery Annual Christmas Lunch

Friends of The Whitworth Art Gallery Annual Christmas Lunch

Wednesday 09 December 2026

The day begins at the Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) library where we will view the Laura Seddon Collection of Greetings Cards. This collection of over 32,500 greetings cards, is one of the largest, and most comprehensive sources for the study of 19th Century greetings cards, and holds some of the earliest and rarest examples of commercial cards. We will view the charming and sometimes amusing Christmas cards in particular; including the first printed Christmas greeting card from 1843.

Our traditional Christmas meal, featuring turkey and a mince pie, tea or coffee takes place between the cafe area and the shop of the Manchester Art Gallery. Dietary requirements can be communicated later.

Cost: £45

• Numbers are limited so early booking is recommended.

Image: The Cole Horsley card, designed by J. C. Horsley, 1843, England © Manchester Metropolitan University Special Collections Museum

Further Details:

Cost per person: £45.00

Booking deadline: 01/12/2026

This event is available to Friends of the Whitworth Art Gallery only. If single members wish to book a place for their spouse or partner, they will also need to be a member.

We will assemble at the foyer of the MMU library, M1 5DG at 10.30am. To make viewing the collection easier we will divide the party into two groups, and each tour will take 45minutes. If you would prefer to be part of the second group, starting c 11.30am please let us know. The MMU library is temporarily housed on Oxford Road, at the junction with Chester Street, between the two flyovers. 

From the library make your own way to the Manchester Art Gallery, M2 3JL,  Mosley Street for 12.30. Our aim is to sit down and eat at 1pm

As is tradition the lunch will feature a Christmas quiz.