UK university libraries are more than quiet study spaces—they are architectural landmarks, cultural icons, and some of the most inspiring places you can visit on campus. From centuries-old Gothic halls filled with rare manuscripts to striking modern glass buildings designed for today’s students, these libraries offer unforgettable experiences for visitors of all kinds. Whether you are an international student exploring potential universities, a traveller seeking hidden cultural gems, or an architecture lover chasing breathtaking spaces, this guide highlights the top 10 most beautiful UK university libraries to visit in 2025.
John Rylands Library
Stepping into the John Rylands Library at the University of Manchester, you are immediately struck by its magnificent Neo-Gothic architecture, feeling as though you have entered a Cathedral of Knowledge. This award-winning building (once voted ‘Best Landmark Building’) is renowned for its vaulted ceilings, intricate stonework, and stained-glass windows. It is an exceptional location for capturing that perfect ‘Hogwarts-style’ study photo, particularly in the main reading room, where the light streaming through the tall windows is the secret to a flawless study aesthetic shot. The library also houses one of the oldest surviving fragments of the New Testament, adding a profound historical weight to your studies.
The Bodleian Libraries
The Bodleian Library at the University of Oxford ranks among the world’s oldest and most revered libraries and has served as an iconic filming location for the Harry Potter film series. Its late Gothic architecture, particularly the fan-vaulted ceiling of the Divinity School, perfectly recreates the magical school scenes depicted in the films. For non-Oxford students, guided tours are available, offering a first-hand experience of this 400-year-old bastion of learning. Posing for photographs before the Radcliffe Camera is an unmissable photo opportunity for every visitor to Oxford who appreciates the aesthetics of scholarship.
Palace Green Library
Durham University‘s Palace Green Library is situated at the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nestled between the Cathedral and the Castle, exuding a palpable medieval atmosphere. The library predates the university itself, and its collections include a wealth of medieval manuscripts and early printed books. Its charm lies in its ancient, tranquil setting, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a deeply immersive and historical study experience. Wandering through the ancient wooden shelves, you can truly feel the weight of history—a unique study aesthetic indeed.
The Lionel Robbins Building
In stark contrast to the solemnity of the classical libraries, LSE‘s Lionel Robbins Building is a testament to Modernist aesthetics. The building’s most striking visual feature is its iconic spiral staircase, which coils around a pair of glass lifts, creating an architectural spectacle of geometric precision. This staircase is one of the most Instagrammable interior designs in any library, providing a flawless backdrop for your study photos. The library’s contemporary design and abundant natural light make it the perfect choice for students who prefer an efficient, bright, and modern study environment.
Cambridge University Library
As early as the middle of the 14th century, the University of Cambridge owned and had a small collection of books. However, it was in the second decade of the 15th century that the first university library was built. By the end of the 16th century, the Cambridge University Library had a collection of up to 600 books. However, like other English libraries, the University Library suffered from the destruction and neglect of the Reformation and the following years. A large number of books and manuscripts from the library’s early years have nevertheless survived. Over its subsequent history, the Cambridge University Library expanded and grew by adding important collections and stacks of books. Over six centuries, the Cambridge University Library’s collections have grown from a few dozen volumes in a handful of disciplines to millions of books, maps, manuscripts, periodicals, and an ever-increasing number of electronic resources.
Maughan Library
Inside Maughan Library is a twelve-cornered reading room inspired by the British Museum and a former medieval church, now an exhibition space showcasing the library’s special collections. Once home to the headquarters of the Public Record Office, known as the ‘strong-box of the Empire’, and acquired by KCL in 2001, Maughan Library was named in honour of Sir Deryck Maughan, an alumnus of King’s College London. Designed by Sir James Pennethorne, the building was constructed in 1851 and further extended between 1868 and 1900.
UCL Main Library
Opened in 1828, the Main Library at University College London was designed by renowned architect William Wilkins and houses over 2 million books, including the first edition of Sir Marquis Gratton’s The Mathematical Principles of Natural Science. UCL alumnus Christopher Nolan’s film Inception was filmed in the Main Library. UCL alumnus Christopher Nolan’s film ‘Inception’ was filmed in the Main Library in the Flaxman Gallary under the domed roof of the Main Library. UCL’s Main Library has four floors of impressive artwork, including the Flaxman Gallery and circular sunset lights.
Edinburgh Main Library
Founded in 1580, the University of Edinburgh Library is the largest in Scotland and one of the world’s most significant and essential academic libraries. The University of Edinburgh Library is a rich collection of 3.5 million books, many of which are rare, attracting scholars and researchers worldwide. The University of Edinburgh’s Main Library near George Square is open to all registered users while serving the University’s Faculties of Humanities and Social Sciences, Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, and Science and Engineering.
Wills Memorial Library
The University of Bristol has several libraries, and one of the most highly regarded is the Wills Memorial Library, which has an old-fashioned charm and a bit of a Hogwarts feel to its design. The Wills Memorial Library, located in the Wills Memorial Tower, was designed by Sir George Oatley, built in 1915, and opened in 1925. It is considered one of Britain’s last significant Gothic buildings. It opened in 1925 and is regarded as one of England’s last significant Gothic buildings.
IC Library
Information Commons was completed in 2007 and has a collection of over 1.5 million books. Compared with other libraries, the IC of the University of Sheffield is considered a relatively new building. The Information Commons (IC) is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and has over 500 computers, 1,300 study spaces, up to 100,000 copies of the most popular study materials, and even a shower room, making it a great place to catch up on your deadline. The building has a Study Room with the latest IT systems and a bathroom. IC also offers free computer repair services to TSE students.
FAQ
The libraries in UK universities are known for their grand architecture, serene environment, and extensive collections of books and resources. Many of these libraries have been around for centuries and have been carefully preserved to showcase the rich history and heritage of the university.
Most of the libraries in UK universities are primarily used by students, but they are also open to the public. Visitors can often access certain library areas, such as exhibition spaces or reading rooms. However, borrowing privileges may be restricted to students and staff only.
There is no specific dress code for visiting libraries in UK universities, but visitors are expected to behave respectfully and appropriately. It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing as you may be spending long hours studying or working. Also, remember that some libraries may have temperature-controlled environments, so bringing a light jacket or sweater is advisable.
