For the first time ever, Middle Temple Library is opening its doors to the public. Join exclusive heritage tours led by members of the Library and Archive teams, offering a rare glimpse into centuries of legal history.
The first library at Middle Temple existed before 1540. However, left unlocked, eventually all its books were stolen. The Library was refounded in 1641, when Robert Ashley bequeathed 6,000 of his own books and funds for a Library Keeper. The collection grew rapidly and today holds over 250,000 volumes, making it one of the UK’s leading legal libraries.
While the focus is on law, you’ll still find works on philosophy, literature, theology, and more reflecting the broader education of earlier barristers. From 1852, when formal legal training and exams were introduced however, the Library narrowed its scope to law, just as legal publishing boomed.
Over the centuries, the Library has had several homes. Its current building, designed by Sir Edward Maufe (of Guildford Cathedral fame), opened in 1958 after WWII bombing destroyed the previous site. The old entrance steps of the nineteenth century building still remain and can be seen from the windows of the current library.
The Library also houses one of the largest American law collections outside the U.S., thanks to 20th-century donations from the Carnegie Foundation, FOLAL, and U.S. Ambassador the Hon. W. Aldrich.
Join one of our tours to discover how Middle Temple Library continues to shape legal minds and preserve the past.
Next Tour Dates
- Wednesday 15th October: 9:30-10:10
Tickets cost £5 per person.
Tours last 30-40 minutes. Please sign in at the Ashley Building reception by 09:15 to allow all members of the tour to go through security and use the facilities. The tour will start promptly at 09:30.
Email library@middletemple.org.uk to book your place.
