Cambridge University Library
With a history reaching back 600 years, the library today contains millions of volumes.
Cambridge University Library
Address: 18 Jesus Lane, Cambridge, CB5 8BQ
Visitor centre opening hours, Term time: Tuesday to Friday: 1pm - 5pm, Saturday & Sunday: 10am - 5pm
Visitor centre opening hours, Cambridgeshire school holidays: Monday to Sunday 10am - 5pm
Entry prices: £3.50; children (under 18s) - £2.50; under 5s - free; family (two adults, two2 Children or 1 Adult, 3 Children) - £10.00
Parking: Closest is Park Street Car Park
Toilets: Yes
Refreshments: Tea Room open through the day
It started as a collection of books stored in the University treasury and now keeps over eight million books and journals, with two million open for browsing. Don’t forget your glasses.
Although part of the university and free for students the library can be accessed by members of the public for a fee. Just remember to turn your phone to silent.
There’s a changing calendar of exhibitions too, and an online archive where you can virtually explore any you’ve already missed, as well as frequent talks. There are also special collections that include some of the library’s oldest artifacts and manuscripts.
It’s a striking building just a short walk from The Backs. There are a lot of different rooms with different opening times that can be found online so you make sure you can find what you’re looking for before you set off.
Find out more about the library online.