The Lit & Phil Library, Newcastle upon Tyne
Discover Newcastle’s historic Lit & Phil Library, a grand neoclassical haven with over 200,000 books and a vibrant cultural scene.
The Lit & Phil Library, located at 23 Westgate Road in Newcastle upon Tyne, is the UK's largest independent library outside London. Established in 1825, this stunning neoclassical building houses over 200,000 books and a vast music collection, offering a peaceful haven for readers, researchers, and culture lovers. It hosts a rich calendar of events including talks, concerts, and workshops, welcoming visitors six days a week with free entry.
A brief summary to Lit & Phil Library
- 23 Westgate Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, GB
- +441912320192
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-7 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-1 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day for a quieter experience and to fully explore the extensive collections.
- Check the event schedule to attend talks, concerts, or workshops held regularly in the library.
- Enjoy a coffee at the library’s café area to relax while soaking in the historic atmosphere.
- Take a free guided tour to learn about the library’s fascinating history and architecture.
- Be aware that some accessibility lifts may be temporarily out of order; check current access information before visiting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro
Take the Tyne and Wear Metro to Central Station, which is a short 5-minute walk from The Lit & Phil Library. The Metro runs frequently with tickets costing around £2-£4 depending on distance.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near Westgate Road, including services from the city centre and surrounding areas. Buses run regularly with fares typically under £3. Check local timetables for exact routes and times.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Newcastle city centre. A ride from the main train station to the library takes about 5 minutes and costs approximately £5-£8 depending on traffic.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking to The Lit & Phil is an easy option. The terrain is flat and accessible, taking around 10-15 minutes from Newcastle city centre landmarks.
Lit & Phil Library location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lit & Phil Library
A Storied Legacy of Learning and Enlightenment
Founded in 1793 and housed in its iconic neoclassical building since 1825, The Lit & Phil Library has been a beacon of knowledge and culture in Newcastle for over two centuries. Originally established by a group of like-minded gentlemen, the Literary and Philosophical Society created a permanent home that would nurture intellectual curiosity and community engagement. The building itself is a masterpiece, featuring a magnificent main reading room illuminated by three large dome lanterns, which historically was the first public room lit by electric light when Joseph Swan demonstrated his invention here in 1881.An Expansive Collection for Every Interest
Today, The Lit & Phil boasts an extensive collection of more than 200,000 books spanning every imaginable genre, from classic literature and history to poetry and biographies. In addition to its vast book holdings, the library is renowned for its music collection, which includes over 20,000 CDs and LPs, primarily classical music, along with scores and sheet music. This rich repository supports visitors seeking both academic research and leisurely reading in a tranquil setting.A Vibrant Cultural Hub with Diverse Programming
Beyond its role as a library, The Lit & Phil serves as a lively cultural centre for the North East of England. It hosts a diverse range of events such as author talks, poetry readings, concerts spanning jazz, folk, and classical genres, workshops, storytelling sessions, and literary festivals. Many of these events take place within the awe-inspiring reading room, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the historic ambiance while engaging with contemporary cultural experiences.Architectural Elegance and Inviting Atmosphere
The building’s neoclassical architecture provides a grand yet welcoming environment. Visitors can admire the intricate design details and the serene atmosphere that makes it an ideal place for study, reflection, or socializing. The library’s proximity to Newcastle Central Station makes it easily accessible, yet it retains a somewhat secretive charm, often described as a hidden gem by locals and visitors alike.Access and Membership Benefits
The Lit & Phil is open six days a week, with varying closing times, and entry is free to all. While membership is not required to visit, members enjoy additional privileges and support the library’s independence and ongoing growth. The library is committed to accessibility, though some lifts may be temporarily out of order, and it encourages visitors of all ages and backgrounds to explore its resources and events.A Sanctuary for Book Lovers and Culture Seekers
Whether you are seeking a quiet place to read, a venue for cultural enrichment, or a glimpse into Newcastle’s rich intellectual heritage, The Lit & Phil offers a unique experience. Its blend of historic significance, vast collections, and vibrant programming makes it a must-visit destination for locals and travelers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St John the Baptist Church
0.1 km
Medieval sanctuary with eight centuries of history, treasured stained glass, and architectural gems hidden in Newcastle's city centre.
Newcastle city walls
0.2 km
Medieval stone fortifications protecting a border town from Scottish invasion, now a historic monument woven into Newcastle's urban landscape.
The Black Gate
0.2 km
Medieval fortress gateway where Newcastle's story began, now fully accessible with rich exhibitions.
Newcastle Keep
0.2 km
Climb 99 steps through four centuries of medieval power and emerge onto rooftop views that define Newcastle.
Castle Wall Well
0.3 km
A medieval well marking Newcastle's 13th-century defensive walls and urban heritage.
Grey St
0.4 km
Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
The High Level Bridge
0.4 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
The Guildhall
0.4 km
Discover Newcastle’s historic Guildhall, a stunning 17th-century civic landmark rich in architecture and medieval heritage.
Blackfriars Medieval Friary
0.5 km
Medieval Dominican friary where kings once stayed, now a living centre of craft, culture, and cuisine.
Richard Grainger Memorial Fountain
0.5 km
Historic granite fountain honoring Richard Grainger’s transformative 19th-century urban vision in Newcastle’s iconic Grainger Town.
Durham Tower
0.5 km
Medieval stone sentinel guarding Newcastle's ancient western walls since the 13th century.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
0.5 km
Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
New Bridge Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of New Bridge Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, home to captivating museums and lively local attractions.
Oriental Garden
0.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Oriental Garden in Newcastle upon Tyne, a peaceful escape filled with lush greenery and vibrant flora.
11 Waterloo St
0.5 km
Historic industrial heritage meets contemporary urban design on Newcastle's transforming Waterloo Street.
Unmissable attractions to see
Newcastle Cathedral
0.2 km
Discover over 900 years of history, stunning stained glass, and the iconic Lantern Tower at Newcastle Cathedral, a spiritual and cultural beacon in the city center.
Site of Anglo-Saxon Church
0.2 km
Explore Newcastle’s ancient heart where Roman roots, Anglo-Saxon heritage, and medieval stone keep converge in Castle Garth’s historic site.
Newcastle Castle
0.2 km
A Norman fortress at the heart of Newcastle, where royal power, rebellion, and city history converge above the River Tyne.
Bigg Market
0.2 km
Historic medieval market turned vibrant nightlife hub with over 30 listed buildings in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Castle Garth
0.2 km
Explore the medieval heart of Newcastle with panoramic views from the iconic Castle Keep and historic Black Gate at Castle Garth.
Castle Garth & The Black Gate
0.2 km
Explore Newcastle’s medieval gateway, The Black Gate, a historic fortress entrance turned vibrant urban hub steeped in centuries of history.
Newcastle Ghost Walks - Haunted City Tours
0.2 km
Explore Newcastle’s haunted streets and historic landmarks on immersive ghost tours filled with chilling tales and authentic paranormal encounters.
The Glamorous Owl
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s artisan jewellery boutique and creative workshop hub nestled in the historic Old George Yard.
Long Stairs
0.3 km
Historic medieval stairway linking Newcastle’s Quayside to the city centre, rich in legends and scenic views.
Grainger St
0.3 km
Historic heart of Newcastle with elegant architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant urban culture.
High Bridge
0.3 km
Walk Newcastle’s oldest route from the Castle Keep to the River Tyne along High Bridge, a historic street at the heart of the city’s medieval core.
The Stand Comedy Club
0.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s premier comedy venue with sharp wit, lively performances, and a welcoming bar atmosphere at The Stand Comedy Club.
A Hadrian's Wall Milecastle Plaque
0.3 km
Discover the Roman frontier’s footprint in Newcastle at the Hadrian's Wall Milecastle Plaque on historic Westgate Road.
St Aidan and St Cuthbert Stonework
0.3 km
Intricate stone carvings celebrating St Aidan and St Cuthbert’s enduring legacy in Newcastle’s rich Christian heritage.
St. Mary's Cathedral
0.3 km
A majestic neo-Gothic cathedral crowned by a soaring spire, embodying Newcastle’s rich Catholic heritage and architectural splendor.
Essential places to dine
The French Quarter
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and an exceptional wine selection in a chic bistro nestled within Newcastle’s historic Westgate Road arches.
Super Natural Newcastle
0.2 km
Discover vibrant vegan dining and creative cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s historic Grainger Street at Super Natural Newcastle.
Kafeneon
0.2 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm Mediterranean hospitality in the vibrant heart of Newcastle’s Bigg Market.
Hibou Blanc
0.2 km
Elegant French-British cuisine and refined hospitality in Newcastle's historic Bigg Market.
Pinocchio Ristorante
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with handmade pasta and stone-baked pizzas in a lively, welcoming Newcastle setting.
Kaltur Wine Bar & Restaurant High Bridge
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and fine wines in a cozy, lively wine bar setting at Newcastle’s historic High Bridge.
Miller & Carter Newcastle
0.3 km
Savor expertly aged British steaks in a stylish, welcoming setting at Miller & Carter Newcastle on Mosley Street.
Kaltur Wine Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and wine bar offering cozy, intimate dining with an open kitchen in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Barluga
0.3 km
A vibrant gastropub on Newcastle’s historic Grey Street, blending modern British cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and stylish setting.
House of Tides
0.3 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in a historic 16th-century merchant’s house on Newcastle’s scenic quayside, blending rustic charm with modern British cuisine.
Portofino Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a stunning Victorian setting with warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere in Newcastle.
Prima Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality beneath Newcastle’s historic High Level Bridge at Prima Restaurant.
Pleased To Meet You
0.3 km
A stylish, late-night bar and restaurant in Newcastle’s city centre, blending rustic charm with vibrant cocktails and seasonal British cuisine.
Gino D'Acampo Restaurant Quayside Newcastle
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining with stunning River Tyne views in a bright, stylish riverside setting on Newcastle’s vibrant Quayside.
Simla Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with a modern touch in Newcastle’s warm and elegant Simla Restaurant, perfect for romantic and lively dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Living Essential
0.2 km
Grainger Street's go-to for stylish, affordable homewares that make city living cozy and practical in Newcastle's heart.
Newcastle Gifts
0.2 km
Discover authentic Geordie souvenirs, local art, and NUFC treasures at this charming Neville Street gem opposite Central Station—your perfect Toon memento stop.
Earl and Coco
0.2 km
Quirky treasures and artisan delights await in this hidden gem of Newcastle's Grainger Town, where every find tells a story.
Retro , Vintage Clothing Newcastle.
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Retro Newcastle, your go-to boutique for retro clothing in the heart of the city.
UpSide Down Presents
0.3 km
A vibrant, independent gift shop under Newcastle’s railway arch, packed with Geordie souvenirs, original cards, and quirky presents for every occasion.
Souvenirs upon Tyne
0.3 km
Discover authentic Geordie treasures in Newcastle’s smallest independent souvenir shop nestled under a historic railway arch.
Phillips & Wilde
0.3 km
Discover exquisite gift baskets and gourmet hampers in Newcastle's iconic Grainger Market – perfect for festive cheer, corporate gifts, or personal indulgences amid vibrant market buzz.
Garms Newcastle
0.3 km
Small, curated vintage clothing shop on Grainger Street, blending durable classics with street-ready retro finds.
Analog
0.4 km
Curated vintage and second‑hand clothing tucked into Alley 3 of Newcastle’s Grainger Market — small stall, big finds.
Tian's Gifts
0.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and charming treasures at Tian's Gifts, nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Soul Rebel (Newcastle)
0.4 km
Discover a unique fusion of stylish apparel and holistic wellness at Soul Rebel, Newcastle's premier destination for fashion and self-care.
The Yesterday Society Vintage Boutique
0.4 km
Discover vintage treasures and retro style at The Yesterday Society, a charming boutique nestled in Newcastle’s historic Grainger Market.
Quayside News
0.4 km
Discover Quayside News, your charming convenience store in Newcastle, perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, and local treats while exploring the Quayside.
Box it up gifts
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and locally crafted gifts at Box It Up Gifts in Newcastle upon Tyne, a must-visit for every traveler.
Vintagera.co.uk
0.4 km
Discover exquisite handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and bespoke framing in the heart of Newcastle’s vibrant Grainger Market.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Revolution Newcastle Upon Tyne
0.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and handcrafted cocktails in Newcastle’s stunning former bank with soaring ceilings and marble pillars.
Jalou
0.1 km
Experience Newcastle’s chic cocktail haven where Parisian glamour meets hip hop beats and creative mixology.
ChachaBuchi
0.1 km
Rustic glamour meets vibrant nightlife in Newcastle’s chic cocktail bar with alpine-inspired cuisine and lively entertainment.
All Seeing Eye.
0.1 km
Discover Newcastle's speakeasy secret: art deco cocktails behind a hidden door on Groat Market, blending historic intrigue with masterful mixology.
Blackie Boy
0.1 km
Historic Newcastle bar with cosy vibes, free jukebox anthems, cheap drinks deals, and late-night energy in Groat Market's lively heart.
Slug & Lettuce - Central Newcastle
0.2 km
Newcastle's go-to for endless cocktails, bottomless brunches, and non-stop party vibes on Grainger Street – where every hour is happy hour.
Mother Mercy
0.2 km
Newcastle's speakeasy secret: inventive cocktails via roulette wheel in a historic Cloth Market hideaway, blending mixology mastery with intimate Mediterranean chic.
Colonel Porter's Emporium
0.3 km
Newcastle's 1920s explorer's paradise: botanical gardens, vintage cocktails, live music, and hidden discos in historic Milburn House.
The Mushroom Bar
0.3 km
A compact, budget-friendly club-bar on Grainger Street that keeps late-night DJs, drink deals and a party crowd at its heart.
All Bar One Newcastle
0.3 km
Stylish Grey Street bar serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, with tapas and wines in Newcastle's buzzing heart.
The Mad House
0.3 km
Dive into Newcastle’s quirkiest cocktail bar where mad creativity meets bold flavors and unforgettable fun at The Mad House.
Alvinos Bar
0.4 km
A lively Italian-owned bar in Newcastle with creative cocktails, craft brews, live DJs, and a welcoming multi-floor setting on Pilgrim Street.
The Market Lane
0.4 km
Affectionately the 'Monkey Bar,' this Pilgrim Street pub pours quality pints and fosters lively vibes with sports screens, live music, and classic British charm in Newcastle's heart.
Duke Of Northumberland (The Clock)
0.4 km
A welcoming Geordie pub in Newcastle city center, offering traditional fare, seasonal ales, and lively weekend music nights in a cozy setting.
Lady Greys
0.4 km
Cozy, classic Newcastle pub with excellent real ales, friendly staff, and a lively late-night atmosphere on Shakespeare Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Social Club
0.1 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
0.1 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
0.1 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
TheCUT Newcastle
0.1 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
0.1 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
Tup Tup Palace
0.1 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
Flares - Newcastle
0.2 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Popworld - Newcastle
0.2 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
0.2 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Greys Club
0.3 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
Sinners
0.4 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
Digital
0.5 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
World HQ
0.5 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Cosmic Ballroom
0.5 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Powerhouse
0.6 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
