British Library - Elizabeth and Mary, Beethoven and Paul McCartney

 

The British Library For research, inspiration and enjoyment

Wherever you are, we’ve got something for you We’re welcoming you back this autumn with our biggest season yet. Join us at the Library and online for our season of events and blockbuster exhibitions, with exceptional manuscripts, handwritten letters and unseen material from our collection.

Elizabeth and Mary: Royal Cousins, Rival Queens 8 October 2021 – 20 February 2022 Step back into a dangerous world of plots, espionage and treachery to explore the turbulent relationship between Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots in their own words. Book now Beethoven 3 December 2021 – 24 April 2022 See the mind of a creative genius at work through extraordinary handwritten manuscripts and letters, and discover how Beethoven challenged conventions and overcame deafness to become one of the most influential composers of all time. Book now

Paul McCartney: The Lyrics 5 November 2021 – 13 March 2022 Free, no need to book A display of lyrics behind the most famous songs of all time. Showcasing previously unseen material from Paul McCartney’s personal archive, our free Entrance Hall display celebrates the life and art of one of the world’s most successful songwriters and performers. Find out more Treasures Gallery Open daily and free, no need to book Jane Austen, Leonardo da Vinci and Magna Carta. Original works, letters and extraordinary manuscripts from the greatest minds in history, all together in one place. Experience over 2,000 years of stories in our permanent gallery, free for everyone to visit. Find out more

Events at the Library and online Brian May, Elif Shafak, Tsitsi Dangarembga and Hugh Bonneville join us for events at the Library and online – and even a few in Leeds – as we welcome you back to in person events again this autumn. Find out more

Not sure what to choose? Choose it all Free entry to our blockbuster exhibitions. Priority booking for our intimate talks. The idyll of calm in our Members’ Room. All for you when you become a Member. Join today