British Library

Photo of the courtyard of the British Library showing a modernist clocktower in the background. — Photo by me. There's an Origin Coffee kiosk here!

Photo of the courtyard of the British Library showing a modernist clocktower in the background. — Photo by me. There's an Origin Coffee kiosk here!

While the British Library is mostly, well, a library, replete with reading rooms and quiet researchers there are frequent events for the general public.

The permanent exhibition - Treasures - lets you see famous manuscripts from throughout history, from the Magna Carta to lyrics from The Beatles.

Free - Paid exhibitions

Exhibitions

A Silk Road Oasis: Life in Ancient Dunhuang

Learn about the ancient oasis of Dunhuang which thrived on the Silk Road, revealing the lives of artists, merchants, and monks from over 1,000 years ago.

£8.00

Until 23 Feb 25

Social History Religion

Medieval Women: In Their Own Words

See and learn about the lives of medieval European women through over 140 items including rare manuscripts, an ivory cross, and early artwork.

★★★★★ Telegraph

£17.00

Until 2 Mar 25

Feminism Classical Art

Talks

Matrix, Marie de France and Medieval Women

Lauren Groff discusses violence, sensuality, and religious ecstasy in the medieval world through narratives of historical figures.

£10.00

14 Jan 25 19:00- 20:15

Literature Feminism

Where Will American Politics Go From Here?

This event looks at the impact of the recent U.S. presidential inauguration and reflects on American democracy and future political challenges.

Sold out

23 Jan 25 18:30- 19:30

Libraries and AI: Opportunity or threat?

A panel will discuss AI’s impact on libraries, focusing on the balance between enhancing services and ethical concerns like privacy.

Free

23 Jan 25 19:00- 20:30