What makes it 88% Solo-Friendly: The library offers free Treasures Gallery, quiet reading rooms with Wi-Fi, regular talks, and easy public access, so a solo visitor can spend hours learning without needing companions.
Why 1-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to see the Treasures Gallery, apply for a Reader Pass, and explore public spaces without rushing.
Sir John Ritblat Treasures Gallery:
View the Magna Carta, Beatles lyrics and other highlights free of charge.
Tip: No booking needed; gallery closes at 17:00 on busy days—arrive early.
Apply for a Reader Pass:
Register for free to use any of the 11 quiet Reading Rooms.
Tip: Bring ID and a photo; then order items from the collection and use Wi-Fi and outlets.
Self-guided building tour:
Explore the public spaces, galleries and book handling room with a digital guide.
Tip: Download the British Library’s free digital guide before you arrive.
Conservation Studio Tour:
Join a behind-the-scenes look at book repair and preservation.
Tip: Tours run first Thursday monthly; book your free spot at the Information Desk.
Business & IP Centre workshops:
Attend free talks on copyright, market research and start-up advice.
Tip: Check the online events calendar and reserve your place in advance.

Lonni Besançon
I am a big fan of visiting libraries as a tourist and this one is definitely a must see. Grand and beautiful with historical pieces and nice exhibits. It’s also a very nice building and only some temporary exhibitions require a paid ticket. Definitely worth a quick stop for those visiting and who are in the neighbourhood.
Hywel Maslen
The British Library is always a pleasure to visit and undertake research. The system is well organised and one can visit a number of rooms and order documents and books. There is also a newsroom for micro films of many publications. There are cafes and a restaurant here which have some good quality food and drinks. There is also free WiFi.
Bruno Rodrigues
The facility is amazing, but I just wholeheartedly hope that the new online system they’re switching to is better. The current one does not make it clear which volumes from book collections are available in the London Unit or in the Boston Bar unit. Also, it was just when I was inside the engineering library that a slightly rude librarian explained to me that all books older than 10 years are take...
M
A library may not typically be on a tourist’s must-see list, but the Treasures Gallery at the British Library is well worth a stop on your visit to London. This free, permanent exhibition showcases some of the world’s most iconic works, including Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks, Beethoven’s music books, the Beatles’ handwritten lyric notes, the Magna Carta, and the Gutenberg Bible - offering a rare ...
dave p
This is a wonderful place to wander around and enjoy some of the literature and writing from history. There are lots of people studying here at the many desks and areas provided. There are plenty of bathrooms, eateries and seating here. I thought there might be a little more in the exhibition room, but what they do have, is very interesting.
Special exhibitions and workshop schedules change periodically; check bl.uk/visit for current dates.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Treasures Gallery entry | GBP 0 |
| Reader Pass registration | GBP 0 |
| Building Tour (optional) | GBP 10 |
| Coffee at café | GBP 3.5 |
| Conservation Studio Tour | GBP 0 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 13.5 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: 96 Euston Rd., London NW1 2DB, UK
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