In today’s write-up, we examine some of London’s most beautiful libraries. These gems — some more hidden than others — are all waiting to be explored for their unique features and welcoming atmospheres. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly which libraries to visit while in London.
So brace yourselves, book lovers, students, and anyone else reading, this one might deserve a bookmark for future reference!
Table of Contents
1. British Library
Being the national library of the UK, the British Library is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful libraries in London. While the library holds a key functional role, one ought to appreciate the visual mix of modern architecture with antiquarian charm. There’s certainly something for the eyes to gaze upon.
Over 170 million items are under the British Library’s handle, and their massive collection includes items such as Leonardo DaVinci’s notebooks and original manuscripts by Mozart, Beethoven, and Bach. While you can browse among millions of books, it’s notable that the British Library holds a significant amount of patents, maps, newspapers, sound recordings, and stamps too.
Visit the British Library’s website here.
2. Maughan Library (King’s College London)
The dodecagonal reading room in the Maughan Library is arguably one of the most beautiful sights any book lover can behold. Unfortunately, only King’s College London students have access, and hence, most visitors are limited to admiring the library from the outside. That doesn’t make the building itself any less spectacular, of course. Being located on Chancery Lane and with areas like Covent Garden and Soho nearby, there are plenty of things to keep you occupied.
It’s worth noting that prospective students have the possibility of experiencing King’s College London — including the library — during undergraduate open days. However, for the majority of visitors, that probably bears short-lived applicability.
Visit the Maughan Library’s website here.
3. National Art Library (Victoria and Albert Museum)
The National Art Library is part of the well-renowned Victoria and Albert Museum in South Kensington. With the UK’s most comprehensive public reference collection of literature on fine and decorative arts, the library is an obvious pitstop for museumgoers and art lovers alike.
From the high-ceilinged room to the Victorian-style reading tables, the National Art Library — without a doubt — makes it to the list of beautiful libraries in London. If you consider visiting, be mindful that the library is only open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10.00 to 17.00.
Visit the National Art Library’s website here.
4. Guildhall Library
Now that’s an important-looking building! In all seriousness, the Guildhall Library exerts a momentous role in storing the local history and its many important characters and organisations throughout time. This includes Samuel Pepys, John Wilkes, Thomas Moore, and libraries of Clock Makers’, Gardeners’ and Fletchers’ Companies to mention a few.
You feel increasingly enlightened simply by walking around in here!
From business history to English law, the Guildhall Library provides a comprehensive look at London, government, and our perspective of British society and culture as we understand it today. Their collections span more than 200,000 items on record.
Visit the Guildhall Library’s website here.
5. The British Museum’s Reading Room
At the heart of the Great Court lies the British Museum’s Reading Room — which looks equally beautiful and impressive. Inside this large dome-like structure awaits a world of high points for anyone on the lookout for beautiful libraries.
Be wary though, as the British Museum’s Reading Room isn’t publically available outside of designated tours happening every Tuesday from 11.00 to 11.20 and from 12.00 to 12.20. Tickets to these tours are free but often sold out quickly and for the foreseeable future — so come prepared.
Visit the British Museum’s website here.
6. Peckham Library
Okay, maybe this one isn’t per se beautiful in the traditional sense of the word, but fans of modern minimalistic architecture will admire Peckham Library for its bold and unusual style nevertheless. This L-shaped copper-clad building has won favour with both locals and visitors alike over the years and is now one of the top attractions in Peckham. Plus, I may add, a winner of the Stirling Prize back in 2000.
The rear of the building is covered in coloured glass panels, which make for interesting and quirky views of the London skyline. If you’re in the mood, I suggest coming here at dusk when the panels are all lit up in their various colours.
Visit Peckham Library’s website here.
7. Senate House Library
The Senate House Library is located inside a rather grand Art Deco building in the Bloomsbury district of London. It acts as the central library for the University of London and contains one of the UK’s largest academic collections of arts, humanities, and social sciences.
Engage in intellectual reading while sitting back in one of the library’s many comfortable leather armchairs or inspect the countless isles of books. Either way, the Senate House Library has certainly got an authoritative, and at the same time oddly cosy, vibe to it.
You gain access by becoming a member or by paying £5 for a day ticket. Students at the University of London are free to enter at any time, of course.
