british library tour

British Library

Top choice in North London

Consisting of low-slung red-brick terraces and fronted by a large piazza with an oversized statue of Sir Isaac Newton, Colin St John Wilson’s British Library building is an architectural wonder. Completed in 1998, it's home to some of the greatest treasures of the written word, including the Codex Sinaiticus (the first complete text of the New Testament), Leonardo da Vinci's notebooks and two copies of the Magna Carta (1215).

The most precious manuscripts are held in the Sir John Ritblat Treasures Gallery, including stunningly illustrated religious texts, Shakespeare's First Folio (1623), a Gutenberg Bible from 1455, a copy of The Diamond Sutra in Chinese dating to 868 – the world's oldest block-printed book – as well as handwritten lyrics by the Beatles and the score to Handel's Messiah .

Book a one-hour guided library tour (adult/child £10/8) for an eye-opening glimpse into the inner workings of the library and its treasures. Tours can be arranged on the website.

96 Euston Rd. NW1

Get In Touch

0330-333 1144

https://www.bl.uk

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British Library in London: a Full Guide for Visitors (+ pics!)

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From Shakespare to Beatles lyrics, the UK has produced some incredible texts, lyrics, manuscripts and more.

While some have been lost to the ages, much of what remains is on display at the British Library in the “Knowledge Quarter” of London, right near King’s Cross Station.

Visitors can spend time getting up close and personal to everything from the Magna Carta (yes, the real one) to ancient religious manuscripts.

It’s one of the most iconic things to do in London, perfect for any reader, and will change your perception of what it means to be a library.

This isn’t just “London’s library,” this is the UK’s library, a safe place for its most precious works and a beacon of hope for the future that we can learn from, appreciate, and build on these past writings, formulas, and drawings.

On top of that, there is a significant amount of indoor and outdoor space to use at leisure, whether you want to take a break from walking, meet up with a friend, or just sit and marvel at all that the British Library has to offer.

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The Absolute Must-Knows (from a Londoner)

• 😍 Cheapest Way to See it All: Get the London Pass here (yes, it’s worth it)
• 🎭 Cheapest site for West End theatre tickets: London Theatre Direct
• 🚕 Cheapest and most reliable airport transfer service: Welcome Pickups
• 🚉 Cheapest Way to Book Train and Bus Tickets: Omio
• 🔌 Most Reliable Adapter for UK Plugs: This one

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History of the British Library

The British Library was founded in 1973 as part of the British Library act.

Not only is it one of the world’s largest collections of books, but it is meant to be the UK’s main hub of information, to help further progress in research, the arts and humanities, science, and more.

The British Library as you see it today is the coming together of multiple libraries and organizations, including the British Museum Library as well as the National Lending LIbrary for Science and Technology.

As you walk around, notice the architecture within the library. Can you see any odes to its history as an old rail goods yard?

This library opened to the public in 1997 and was officially inaugurated by HM Queen Elizabeth II.

IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?

In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.

• Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site .
• International debit cards without fees – do not get stuck paying extortionate foreign fees when using your card abroad (and the UK is almost all card these days). I use the Wise debit and travel card which you can apply and learn more about here .

Who should go to the British Library?

Unlike many attractions in London that are good for the whole family, the British Library will really hit home for certain types of people.

I would recommend that you visit the British Museum if:

• you’re an adult visitor to London who wants to see the major sites
• you’re a child with an excitement about reading or understanding of big names like Shakespeare
• you identify as a “reader” and love books

While this covers many people, I would not recommend that those with small children spend a lot of time here, as they would have more fun at a place like the Science Museum or Natural History Museum that are more interactive.

They are welcome, of course, but probably won’t want to spend the same amount of time wandering around the cases of sacred texts as you do, so turn it into a lunch stop for them and get something in the café and then take a quick tour of the Treasures of the British Museum exhibit before you leave.

Where is the British Library?

The British Library is easily accessible from a few tube stations, being just a short walk from King’s Cross and Euston Station.

It is in the heart of Central London, and so close to everything that it’s easy to add into your London itinerary (psst – if you need help organizing your London itinerary, don’t forget to take advantage of my UK itinerary planning services here !).

How to Get to the British Library

You’ll find the British Library at 96 Euston Rd, London NW1 2DB.

It’s an 8 minute walk from King’s Cross Station.

or a 6 minute walk from Euston Station.

British Library Entrance Fee

The best part for visitors is that entrance to the British Library in order to see the Treasures of the British Library exhibit, walk around the interior, or get something from the café is absolutely free.

British Library Opening Hours

Typically the British Museum is open from 9:30am to 8pm on weekdays, and 11pm to 5pm on weekends, but check the schedule here to make sure it’s open during your visit.

British Library Experience

Part of what the British Library offers is an incredible gathering place in London. Outside, you’ll find a courtyard with gorgeous views of neighboring King’s Cross and a nice cafe.

The architecture on the exterior is also stunning and makes for some great pictures.

Head inside and you’ll find another treasure trove of architectural intrigue, as well as “open space” areas to sit down and get some work done or enjoy a brief break in your hectic London day.

Locals in London can sign up for the British Library Membership , which allows them into the exclusive members room and the ability to actually get up close to many of the books, but as mentioned, no one needs to pay a fee to actually enter the building and to wander around and soak up the wonderful texts in the permanent exhibit, Treasures of the British Library.

As you wander around, there are also other things to see, including printing presses and one of the largest stamp collections you’ve ever seen.

Treasures of the British Library

This is the must-do when it comes to the British Library, as this exhibit houses some of the most incredible past works in literature, science, medicine, and politics, including the Magna Carta, Shakespeare’s works, and even Beatles lyrics.

The lights are kept dimmed to preserve the books, creating a spotlight effect on each book that really showcases the incredible history in this room.

As you walk around, you’ll notice everything from scores written by famous composers like Mozart and Purcell.

To religious texts going back centuries.

To literature and printing press originals.

British Library Amenities

In addition to the exhibits, the British Library has plenty of outdoor café space, perfect for the summer months.

Then you’ve got an awesome indoor café, with more spaces to sit.

There’s the bookshop, which has a variety of souvenirs, gifts, and research texts and other reading-themed apparel.

And then you have a cloakroom, toilets on the lower level.

What else should I not miss in London?

If you’re visiting London soon, here’s a very brief rundown of a few of my other favorites to make sure you don’t miss anything!

• Hidden London Walking Tour – this tour is the absolute best if you want to see London in a different light and uncover hidden nooks, crannies, and histories that you won’t get on your normal, run-of-the-mill London walking tour. Click here to check prices and book.
• Historical Westminster Walking Tour with Churchill War Rooms – if you’re a history buff or even mildly interested in all of the insane things that have happened in London, particular during the wars, you have to book this tour which is an absolute bargain for the tour + entry to the Churchill War Rooms (basically two must-dos in one). Click here to check prices and book .
• Cutest London Afternoon Tea on a Bus – want to see the sights and enjoy afternoon tea at the same time on the upper deck? Yes, absolutely you do. This afternoon tea is a real delight and helps you get out and about while also putting your pinkies up. Click here to check prices and book.

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

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Take the Treasures Tour - British Library

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Take the Treasures Tour

The Treasures Tour is a 60-minute introduction to the treasures of the British Library, its history, a bit of its architecture, and the Treasures Gallery. It is usually offered twice a day (once in the morning and once in the afternoon) and is led by a staff member, well-versed in arcane facts about the wealth of manuscripts, books, etc. housed within the building. I took the afternoon tour on a Saturday in August. Only 1 other person was in my group, so our guide was happy to answer all our questions. She also spent extra time with us in the Treasures Gallery recounting interesting details about the Gutenberg and Wycliffite Bibles, and various manuscripts on display. Without in any way being pedantic, our guide also explained and expounded on the differences among the extant versions of the Magna Carta housed in the Library and elsewhere. Although I spent 2 hours after the tour wandering around the Treasures Gallery, what I learned on the tour opened my eyes to details I never would have noticed on my own. I highly recommend booking a tour either online in advance of your visit (as I did) or at the front desk in the main lobby of the Library. Admission to the Library is free; the tour costs 10 GBP, with concessions offered for seniors, students, etc.

Wonderful, amazing, inspiring and accessible. Definitely a place to visit as often as possible. Full of researchers, an exciting list of events to attend and brilliant onset book shops.

The Treasures Room which is free to the public is a treasure trove of original manuscripts, musical handwritten sheets, memorabilia and artwork -- from Mozart to John Lennon to Shakespeare...truly, an experience not to be missed.

Well worth stopping by and spending an hour here. The library is across the street from the St Pancras train station. The rare book room is located on the main floor, walk into the light and temperature controlled space and see incredible artifacts from the past as well as a few contemporary masterpieces. From the Magna Carta to a Beetles song, from a Gutenberg Bible to an Islamic sacred text... an amazing wealth of literary history to be browsed by all interested.

We had limited time in London, but on my bucket list was to see the Codex Sinaiticus on exhibit in the Treasures section of the free British Library. This is one of the very earliest handwritten manuscripts in Greek of the Christian bible from 351 A.D. which includes the complete New Testament. They also hold the 450 A.D. Codex Alexandrinus, however, it was not on display during our visit. Perhaps they rotate them, not sure. The Gutenberg Bible is also there as well as the Magna Carta along with other fragments of the scriptures. An amazing collection.

Close to King's Cross/St. Pancras and Euston stations. Very interesting architecture. The best is amazing "showcase" in the middle of building containing royal collection. Free exhibitions wich you must see if you love books (Magna Carta, various manuscripts , incunabulas etc.). There are few restaurants , Free Wifi, library shop. Very nice courtyard.

British Library

Top ways to experience British Library and nearby attractions

• King's Cross St. Pancras • 5 min walk
• Euston • 6 min walk

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Learning events and workshops

Join us for workshops, tours and events for teachers and schools, families and learners of all ages.

While our digital resources are unavailable, our in-person and online events continue. So, whether you're planning a school trip or looking for a family-friendly activity, we can help.

Follow on X for the latest news and information.

Learning for all

Let our school workshops shed light on topics spanning from sacred texts and intricate artists' books to Black British literature and the history of recorded sound.

Join us for family fun from creative family days to our monthly Family Station , regular under 5s sessions and relaxed openings.

We also offer a range of events and activities for people with additional needs and disabilities including accessible tours, relaxed hours and group workshops.

School workshops in London

School workshops in Leeds

Online school workshops and events

Access events

Access workshops for groups

Family events

Plan your next school trip. We offer hands-on creative workshops, interactive tours with experts and self-guided visits. Our programme is free and sessions take place at the Library, near Kings Cross.

Booking is essential. Please submit a booking request form to request a session.

To find out more information, please email [email protected] .

Beyond the Bassline exhibition self-led visits

Let your students explore the many facets of Black British Music with a self-guided visit to this atmospheric exhibition. Make a day of it by booking alongside one of our facilitated workshops, such as Windrush Voices, Black British Literature or Sound Lab

90 minutes | English, English Literature, History, Music | Primary: Years 3 - 6 / Secondary and FE: Years 7 – 13

Self-guided visits

These flexible visits enable you to lead your group to explore our public spaces and Treasures Gallery. We provide a printed resource to support your visit with activities for learners and information about the Library for teachers

60 minutes | Primary: Years 3 - 6 / Secondary and FE: Years 7 - 13

Making Artists' Books

Learners will make their own artists' books in this hands-on workshop. They will discover what an artist's book is and why they are made

90 minutes | Art and Design | Primary: Years 3 - 6 / Secondary and FE: Years 7 - 13

Exploring Sacred Texts

This workshop explores the richness and diversity of sacred texts from different religions. Learners will look at special texts on display in our Treasures Gallery and engage with items from our digitised collection.

90 minutes | Religious Education | Primary: Years 4 - 6 / Secondary: Years 7 - 9

Windrush Voices

This session explores the arrival of the Empire Windrush in Essex in 1948 and the wider social and historical context of this moment. Students will investigate the experiences of Caribbean people who came to the UK in the 1950s and 1960s in sessions tailored to the ages of participants.

90 minutes | History, English Literature | Primary: Years 4 - 6 /Secondary and FE: Years 10 - 13

Once upon a Time: Tell a Story

Students take a well-known story and develop storytelling skills through performance, strengthening their literacy and language skills. These sessions have been made possible thanks to support from Old Possum's Practical Trust.

60 minutes | English, Literacy | Primary: Years 1 - 2

Once upon a Time: Make a Story

Students will create a new story as a class, developing their literacy and language skills through imaginative play. These sessions have been made possible thanks to support from Old Possum's Practical Trust.

Listen Up! Dive into Sound

Hear recordings from our sound archive, from environmental sounds and speeches. This workshop explores how sound can transform a space and capture the imagination.

90 minutes | English, Literacy, Cross-curricular | Primary: Years 4 - 6

Listen Up! Sound Lab

Students use a range of techniques to create, collect, amplify, mix, layer and record sound in this hands-on session.

90 minutes | Music, Cross-curricular, Well-being | Primary: Years 4 - 6

Research Matters

Information literacy, investigation, observation, questioning and source analysis techniques feature in this workshop on research skills.

90 minutes| Information Literacy, Cross-curricular | Primary: Years 5 - 6

Voyage into Maps

Students will explore maps on display in our Treasures Gallery, thinking critically about their many uses and styles.

90 minutes | Geography, Art and Design, History | Primary: Years 3 - 6

Sounds Familiar?

Uncover ways of analysing speech, accent and dialect. This session explores language change and variation, and regional vocabulary, pronunciation and grammar in the UK.

90 minutes | English Literature | Secondary and FE: Years 10 - 13

Exploring Black British Literature

Explore the rich history of Black writing and literature in Britain. Students will reflect on the plurality of themes in a variety of Black British texts using digitised manuscripts and recordings from our collection.

120 minutes | English Literature | Secondary and FE: Years 10 - 13

Develop Your Writing: RLF Bridge

This one-day workshop will improve students' confidence in academic writing. Run by Royal Literary Fund Writing Fellows.

All-day session | History, English Literature, Cross-curricular | Secondary and FE: Years 12 - 13

Students will explore the Library and our Treasures gallery to gain inspiration in this creative writing workshop.

90 minutes | English | Primary: Years 3 - 6 / Secondary and FE: Years 7 - 13

More events

Discover one-off, free events on our Eventbrite page.

Inspire your class with student study days and get inside the minds of famous authors.

Learn without leaving your classroom or step back in time at Temple Newsam. All part of our growing programme of activities in Leeds.

To find out more, please email [email protected] . Booking is essential.

Elizabeth and Mary: Royal Cousins, Rival Queens

Experience Tudor life and explore the turbulent relationship between Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots. Delivered at Temple Newsam, Leeds - the birthplace of Mary's notorious husband, Lord Darnley.

All-day session | History | Secondary: Years 7 - 11

Write Like a Poet

Exclusive to LS postcodes

Learn new ways to tell stories through poetry. Respond to poems by James Berry, Grace Nichols and John Agard in this creative writing workshop. Delivered in your school.

English, Literacy | Primary: Years 3 - 6

Graphic Novels Dramatised

Use drama to share stories in new ways. Explore the story and issues behind Sarah Garland's graphic novel, Azzi in Between, in our interactive drama workshop. Delivered in your school.

English, Literacy, Drama | Primary: Years 3 - 6

Sounds Like a Story

Explore the role of sound in storytelling, with Sally Pomme Clayton and Amin Hassanzadeh Sharif's The Phoenix of Persia. Pupils will be introduced to vocal percussion and sound effect techniques. Delivered in your school.

English, Literacy, Music | Primary: Years 3 - 6

Join us online, wherever you are. With year-round workshops, teacher CPDs and termly activities for your class.

Discover more of our online events on our Eventbrite page.

Livestream famous authors into your classroom, grow your students’ skills with study days and deepen your knowledge with our teacher CPD events – all for free.

We offer free group workshops for people with additional needs and disabilities. Workshops take place at the Library, near Kings Cross.

To book or find out more information, please email [email protected] . Booking is essential.

Books Uncovered

A group workshop designed for young people and adults with learning disabilities. Make and take away your own bound book and learn about the UK's national library.

90 minutes | Free | Age 16+

ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)

Join us for an introduction to the British Library and our collection in this session for adult learner groups at all ESOL levels.

90 minutes | Free