Behind the Scenes at the British Library

See behind the scenes at this unique site, a former munitions factory now home to a living collection that gets bigger every day. There are world-altering documents and manuscripts by history’s most original thinkers. Centuries of books, newspapers and maps, and a growing archive of everything published in the UK.
Discover more about the Library’s history, collection and the role of their Boston Spa site on a tour of areas not usually open to the public including the National Newspaper Building, the Collection Care and Digitisation suites, and the Additional Storage Building where you’ll see their robotic retrieval cranes in operation.
You’ll be guided by our knowledgeable, passionate Library staff who will share the Library’s unique quirks.

Timings

Wednesday 16 September:

1000-1230

Thursday 17 September:

1000-1230

Location & directions

The British Library, Boston Spa, Wetherby, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS23 7BQ

Directions:

On arrival please report to the gatehouse where you will be directed to parking: please include your car reg when you book so you can be booked in advance. Public transport to the site is limited. Transdev bus service 7 (Leeds-Wetherby-Harrogate) passes close by, the nearest stop is Walton Corner, a few minutes walk from the entrance.

Contact on day:

Customer Services:

Telephone number:

+441937546060

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

Please email Customer Services Box-office at [email protected] with your full details, the date you wish to book and car registration. We will respond to confirm your place on a first come first served basis.

Booking email:

[email protected]

Booking opens:

14 Aug 2026 12:00 AM

Booking closes:

04 Sep 2026 12:00 AM

Accessibility details

Access to the Additional Storage Building experience is via two flights of stairs so is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with limited mobility. All other areas of the tour have step-free access. Over 18s only: Toilets are by Reception and we have an on site cafeteria where refreshments can be purchased.

Additional information

Tours will be in 2 groups of 12 each day.

Max number of people:

24

Estimated duration:

2 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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