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British Library, London

4.5

#15 of 252 in Museums in London

History Museum Library

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More than a massive repository for books, the British Library also holds significant artifacts and documents, such as the Magna Carta, a Gutenberg Bible, and an original Beatles lyrics sheet. Each year, the world's largest library adds three million new items, requiring some 9.6 km (6.0 mi) of shelf space. You obviously won't see everything on your visit, so take a guided tour to view the most important collections and learn about the building's history and architecture. The Philatelic Exhibition holds some of the world's rarest and most significant stamps; check its schedule for temporary exhibits. If you want to learn more before your visit, download podcasts from the library's website. You can also listen to presentations from past events. Use our London trip planner to add British Library and other attractions to your London vacation plans.

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British Library Reviews

Rate this attraction

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

3,919 reviews

Google

4.5

facebook

4.6

327 likes

• By 516adt

  The Treasures exhibit at the British Library is free, and it's astounding what's in the collection. My companion was super skeptical but it ended up as one of our favorite attractions. The items on....  more »

• By davidbE4763DO

  We were staying next door, and it's free, so I popped in to see what it was all about. The "Treasures Gallery" was fantastic, filled with priceless beautiful and one of a kind works from all around.....  more »

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Google

• By Sulemainn Ar

  I love this place, so many rare and ancient books and the sheer sense of history combined with the modern feel that it now has since the refurbishment. Having said that I think it wasn't fully thought out, there aren't enough seats or tables and most are spread out so not the best use of space. Also would have been nice to see more facilities available for modern gadgets so, power supply points etc. All in all, it's a good place to visit of not do serious work.

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• By Nnenna Umelloh

  I really needed a quiet place to sit down and get some work done. The British library is the perfect place to do that. There's also a cafe and restaurant here which makes everything more convenient. I love coming here.

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