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Contents
What is the Westminster Abbey library
The Westminster Abbey library houses some of the most historical manuscripts from the medieval era. The present library has been in existence since 1591. It has around 14,000 books that are more than 200 years old. It also has a collection of manuscripts and printed manuscript music along with an extensive photographic collection.
About Westminster AbbeyWhy visit the Westminster Abbey library
- Explore the extensive collection: The Westminster Abbey library contains approximately 14,000 volumes, each over 200 years old. These volumes present a unique window into the abbey's rich literary legacy and the historical development of printing and publishing.
- Get your hands on rare historical manuscripts: The library boasts an invaluable collection of ancient manuscripts, historical archives, and documents intricately linked to the abbey's vast history. These rare and significant materials serve as critical resources, offering profound insights, especially for scholars, historians, and researchers.
- Abundance of knowledge for musicians: In addition to the textual materials, the library also houses a notable collection of printed manuscript music. This archive offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the rich musical traditions and compositions integral to the Abbey's storied history.
Highlights of the Westminster Abbey library
Book collection
There are 14,000 books printed before 1801, 60 manuscripts from the medieval period, and a huge manuscript music collection. The most famous include the Litlington missal volumes, Liber Regalis, and the prayer book of Lady Margaret Beaufort, and modern collections like the history of Westminster Abbey, Saint Margaret’s Church, and British coronations.
Muniment collection
The main attraction is the Muniment collection which includes records of land held by the abbey, financial records of administrations of monarchs, Royal charters, minutes of the Chapter meetings, records of leased abbey properties, records of coronations and funerals, documents in Hebrew, and records of the coroner's inquest in Westminster during 1760-1880.
Photographic collections
The Westminster Abbey library has a large collection of high-resolution pictures that you can see to get a sense of the beauty of the abbey from afar. You can also download them for personal use.
View Westminster Abbey’s photo gallery here.
Record series
The Westminster Abbey record series was created in 1997. These documents are mostly related to the abbey and its history and include records, calendars, lists, and indexes. The intention behind making these records is to provide the contents of the collection of the abbey to the general public and scholars who need the resources for academic purposes.
Catalogs
The abbey has an extensive cataloging and indexing system for its medieval, early modern, and most of its modern archives. Westminster Domesday, Liber Niger, and St. Martin Le Grand are the 3 main medieval cartularies. There are also indexes for collections and leased books. The Abbey is also setting up a digital database with a separate index for the library’s contents.
Online records
These include coroner's inquests, Manor and the court rolls, denizens' rolls, and the list of Church of England clergy. The coroner’s inquiries cover judicial inquisitions from 1760 to 1799. The court rolls keep a record of manors, rent paid, and tenants. The 160-foot-long denizens’ rolls were useful in keeping a record of the population and the immigrants of the country.
Plan your visit to the Westminster Abbey library
Timings
Location
Opening hours: 10:30am to 4pm (Monday to Thursday)
Closed on: National holidays and on days when service is held in the abbey
Best time to visit: Check out the library in the early mornings during weekdays for a quieter, more serene experience.
Address: East Cloister, London, SW1P 3PA
The Westminster Abbey Library is situated in the East Cloister of the iconic Westminster Abbey, located in the heart of London.
Closest landmark: Jewel Tower (0.16 km)
History of the Westminster Abbey library
The Westminster Abbey library was a dormitory room in the monastery; later, it was converted into a library in the 16th century. The first 2000 books in this library were installed in 1623 after Dean John Williams installed a book press here at his own expense.
The collection slowly grew in the 17th and 18th centuries when books were bought, bequeathed, or given to the library. Dean Zachary Pearce also left all his books in this library in 1774. The abbey’s collection of books on its history grew over time, and today, it has a magnificent collection of books, manuscripts, documents, and collections that allow you to explore stories of the past.
History of Westminster Abbey
Book Westminster Abbey tickets & tours
Frequently Asked Questions about the Westminster Abbey library
Can the public visit the Westminster Abbey Library?
The Westminster Abbey Library is primarily for researchers and scholars, but access can be arranged by appointment. It is not a typical visitor attraction like the Abbey itself, so plan accordingly if you wish to explore its contents.
Can I access original manuscripts in the library?
Yes, the Westminster Abbey Library houses original manuscripts, including rare texts from the medieval and early modern periods. Access is granted based on the nature of your research and the availability of materials.
How far in advance should I schedule my visit to the Westminster Abbey Library?
It is advised to schedule your visit at least a few weeks in advance, as access is limited, and appointments are subject to availability. This ensures that the library staff can accommodate your research needs.
Can I photograph documents inside the Westminster Abbey Library?
Photography of documents is generally not permitted to preserve the integrity of the materials. However, you may request copies of certain documents, or use digital resources available through the library.
What subjects are best researched at the Westminster Abbey Library?
The library is ideal for researchers interested in British history, religious studies, theology, and the cultural heritage of the Abbey. It’s a treasure trove for those studying church history or the role of the Abbey in British monarchy events.
Can I donate books or manuscripts to the Westminster Abbey Library?
The library accepts donations that are relevant to its collection areas. If you wish to contribute, it is best to contact the library directly to discuss the nature of your donation.
