MD Leyden 1793
Holme was born in Kendal on 14 February 1770 and was educated at Sedbergh School. He came to Manchester in 1787 and continued his studies at the Manchester Academy, living in Dr Percival's house as his private secretary. In 1790 Holme when to Göttingen where he studied German language and general literature. He continued his medical studies in Edinburgh from 1791 before returning to Leyden in 1793 where he obtained the degree of Doctor. In 1792 Holme settled in Manchester as a physician and was elected honorary physician to MRI. In 1827 Holme resigned from his positions at MRI and in 1829 was elected physician extraordinary. He was interviewed by a House of Lords Committee in 1818 about the health of children working in factories.
Holme was involved in the Manchester Board of Health and was a long friend of Dr Ferriar. He was a secretary of the Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society before holding the office of vice-president from 1798 until 1844. In 1844 he was elected president, and held this office until his death. Holme was also one of the founders of the Portico Library, first president of the Manchester Natural History Society and of the Cheetham Society, and president of a number of other associations. Holme was fellow of the Linnean Society. Holme was also good friends with John Dalton. Holme died on 28 November 1847, leaving a large portion of his estate to University College London. After his death an incomplete stone cross was found in a box in his study. This was presented to the Manchester Natural History Society Museum. In 1868 the Lancaster Priory Anglian Runic Cross was transferred to the British Museum.