Experience the Big Library on the first Friday of every month (July-Dec 2026) as we celebrate its 175th anniversary.
Experience the Big Library on the first Friday of every month (July-Dec 2026) as we celebrate the 175th anniversary of one of Britain’s most extraordinary historic libraries.
This introductory experience invites you to explore the magnificent space at your own pace and discover some of the treasures that have shaped the Big Library’s remarkable legacy over the past 175 years.
The Library is home to more than 50,000 volumes, including unique early manuscripts and rare first editions. Highlights on display include a first edition of Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species, The Nuremberg Chronicle (1493), an early edition of Sir Isaac Newton’s Principia Mathematica, and an illuminated manuscript The Esh Missal.
Alongside these iconic works, you can also discover up to six changing books or manuscripts – refreshed monthly to reveal new stories from the collection.
Pre-booking essential, timeslots are:
11:30am - 12pm
12:15am - 12:45pm
1:30pm - 2pm
2:15pm - 2:45pm
Get a National Art Pass and explore Ushaw Historic House, Chapels And Gardens
You'll see more art and your membership will help museums across the UK
National Art Pass offers available at Ushaw Historic House, Chapels And Gardens
Visitor information
Address
Woodland Road, Durham, DH7 9RH
0191 373 8500
Opening times
Daily, 10am - 4pm
