Sir Benjamin Heywood, 1st Baronet Bt FRS (12 December 1793 – 11 August 1865) was an English banker and philanthropist.
Benjamin Heywood was born on 12 December 1793 in St Ann's Square, Manchester.
He lived at "Claremont" to the north west of the city centre in Irlams o' th' Height.
He was an enthusiast for workers' education and was a founder of the Manchester Mechanics' Institute, serving as its president from 1825 until 1840.
Heywood briefly served as Member of Parliament for Lancashire from 1831 until 1832, receiving his baronetcy in recognition of his work in support of the 1832 Reform Bill.