Level 5, Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London SE1 8XX

The National Poetry Library


The National Poetry Library is a free public collection housed at Royal Festival Hall in London's Southbank Centre. Situated on the fifth floor of the Royal Festival Hall, overlooking the river Thames, the library aims to hold all contemporary UK poetry publications since 1912.

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About



The National Poetry Library is a hidden gem in the heart of London, England that is a must-visit destination for poetry enthusiasts and tourists alike. Located within the iconic Southbank Centre, this unique library houses one of the largest poetry collections in the world, with over 200,000 items ranging from contemporary poetry to rare first editions.

As a tourist, the National Poetry Library offers a one-of-a-kind cultural experience that is sure to enrich your visit to London. The library is open to the public and admission is free, making it an accessible and affordable attraction for travelers of all backgrounds.

Upon entering the library, visitors are greeted with a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. The library is located on the fifth floor of the Southbank Centre and offers stunning views of the Thames River and the city skyline.

The National Poetry Library’s collection is vast and diverse, with works from poets of all backgrounds and nationalities. Visitors can browse the shelves and discover new voices or delve into the works of their favorite poets. The library also offers a range of services, including free Wi-Fi, printing and photocopying facilities, and access to online poetry resources.

In addition to its extensive collection, the National Poetry Library hosts a range of events and exhibitions throughout the year, including poetry readings, talks, and workshops. These events provide visitors with an opportunity to engage with poets and other poetry enthusiasts and to deepen their appreciation for this art form.

For those who are new to poetry or who want to learn more about the craft, the National Poetry Library offers a range of resources and tools to help visitors get started. The library’s knowledgeable staff are always on hand to answer questions and offer guidance, and the library also offers a range of educational materials and online resources to help visitors explore poetry in more depth.

Overall, the National Poetry Library is a unique and enriching destination for tourists visiting London. Whether you are a poetry enthusiast or simply looking for a new cultural experience, this library offers something for everyone. With its welcoming atmosphere, stunning views, and vast collection of poetry, the National Poetry Library is a must-visit destination that should not be missed.

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Opening Hours

Thursday 12–8 pm
Friday 12–8 pm
Saturday 12–8 pm
Sunday 12–8 pm
Monday Closed
Tuesday 12–6 pm
Wednesday 12–8 pm

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