The British Library

Extremely efficient and well-stocked library, that feels like a cathedral and doubles as a co-working space (you don't have to be a library member to use desks and WiFi). It's incredible how they can be so good, and offer it all for free. EFFICIENT: My pass was renewed in 4 minutes (from entering the room to leaving it with the pass that has been printed for me). Don't forget your ID document(s) - details on the BL website. Note that the registration room closes 2h before the library, and is closed on Sundays.Most books are in the library, and the librarians will get them in 70min after they were ordered. Possible to order books from home to save time. You cannot take your bags inside, but it's possible to take phones, laptops, paper and pencils (but not pens). WELL-STOCKED: BL's vaults hold 14 million books, including every book single printed in the UK and Ireland. They don't have the museum exhibition catalogues though.

The British Bookstore is a literary treasure nestled in the heart of British culture. This cozy haven for book lovers offers a unique experience that combines Britain's rich literary tradition with the comfort and warmth of a modern space.From the moment you walk through the door, you're immersed in a world of letters and words. Antique wooden shelves house a vast collection of books, spanning from classics of British literature to the latest offerings from contemporary authors. Whether you're in search of a Jane Austen masterpiece, an intriguing Agatha Christie mystery, or the latest creation from a talented emerging author, you'll find something to quench your reading thirst here.What makes this bookstore even more special is its passionate and knowledgeable staff. The booksellers are always eager to help you find that perfect book, offering recommendations based on your personal tastes and literary interests. They also host regular literary events, from author readings to book clubs, fostering interaction and discussion among the reading community.The ambiance is as charming as the book selection. The décor is a blend of the traditional and the modern, with comfortable armchairs and a cup of tea or coffee always at the ready for you to enjoy while perusing a book or delving into a deeper read. Soft music and dim lighting create a cozy atmosphere that invites you to linger for hours.In summary, the British Bookstore is a place where a passion for literature meets Britain's rich literary heritage. Whether you're an occasional visitor or a regular patron of this literary nook, you'll feel right at home here. It's a place where stories come to life, and each visit is a new literary adventure. Whether you're a lover of classics or a fan of contemporary literature, this bookstore is a must-visit destination for anyone who values the magic of books.

I went to the Fantasy exhibition which is brilliant.I love the whole feeling here anyway. Cafe, shop, spaces to sit. The Treasures of the British Library exhibition and just the fact that they preserve books

Featured A rather magical fantasy exhibition with beautiful copies of famous fantasy novels as well as appreciating the deep fantasy worlds of video games like dark souls and Skyrim. Opportunity to see original props and costume from Jim Jenson's 'the dark crystal' the library itself is mostly off limits to those without passes but it's still a beautiful sight

The British Library isn't what it once used to be. Many sections have been closed off to the public and though there is an exhibition on the ground floor exploring the likes of religion, artists, architecture, Shakespeare, modern day writing all in literature form, it's a shame that not all of it is accessible in depth. It's a good thing entry is free to the public as charging for entry would feel like one big con. If you're a bookworm then this is the place to be but if you're passing through, the visit will be very fleeting, so just a head's up.

The Treasures of the British Library is one of my favourite exhibits in London (and that is a big claim).The real bonus is its free!So many glorious and ulta rare books from Shakespeare's 1st Folio to original letters.

Fantasy Realms of Imagination exhibition: A tasteful delight with exhibits from books, arts, films, board games and even computer games. This exhibition walks you through four of these categories in the following order; Fairy and Folk Tales, Epics and Quests, Weird and Uncanny then finally Portals and Worlds. I was delighted to see one of my favourites on exhibit which was the dark fantasy film Pan's Labyrinth by director Guillermo del Toro.

A 90s postmodern building housing a huge collection of books with a free exhibition of amazing rarities, including two copies of the original Magna Carta and the 4 folios of Shakespeare’s work. It’s a half an hour - at least - nicely spent among humanities great treasures.

Wonderful exhibitions. So many cool texts to see. Even if you don’t visit to study there’s still a lot to explore. Probably on a weekday though as some places are closed on a Sunday like the Asian and African studies. The shop is cute too!

Cool place to go to see all things book related. Some displays of some really old books and cool area where you can see all these books going up high. Cafes to get food n drink. Seemed to be a lot of people studying and meeting up - was busier than I expected it to be on a weekday. Good to try and plan what to see if you haven’t got lots of time to spare. Exhibition of old books etc can be found on Upper ground floor on the far left as you enter the premises.