If you’re looking to do some sightseeing whilst in Oxford we recommend you make a visit to The Bodleian Library. This is one of Oxford’s biggest landmarks and is a sight to behold with its stunning architecture. It’s a working library which forms part of the University of Oxford and it’s not one library but many libraries which make up the largest university library system in the UK. The Bodleian Library is also the second-largest library in Britain and is not to be missed.

Entry to the exhibitions is free and no pre-booking is required whereas entry to the Divinity School is £2.50 per person with pre-booking. A fun fact about the Library is that when you join the Bodleian Library as a reader, you swear — in your native language — never to set fire to it!

What libraries should I visit in Oxford?

The Bodleian Library has its rich history not only in printed form but also in its architecture and is a must-see cultural destination in the heart of Oxford. This is one of the oldest and most important nonlending reference libraries in Britain.

Here you can explore historic spaces that you might recognise from popular films and TV series such as Harry Potter and A Discovery of Witches. The Old Library is one of the oldest libraries in Europe. It has three historic reading rooms: the Lower Reading Room, the Upper Reading Room and the Duke Humfrey’s Library. You will find free, inspiring exhibitions featuring the libraries’ rich collections, two unique gift shops and a fantastic café. And as if that isn’t enough, they also host a wide variety of events and courses for you to try.

  • There are limited parking spaces available on Broad Street and Parks Road
  • There is wheelchair access
  • The suggested duration of this activity is 1-2 hours
  • Exhibitions are open Monday – Saturday: 10am–4.30pm | Sunday: 11am–4.30pm
  • Divinity School and Tours are open Monday – Saturday: 9.30 am–5 pm | Sunday: 11 am–5 pm

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