The Maughan Library, King's College London
Explore London's grand neo-Gothic Maughan Library, a historic fireproof archive turned vibrant university research hub at King's College London.
The Maughan Library is the main research library of King's College London, housed in a striking 19th-century neo-Gothic building on Chancery Lane. Originally built as the Public Record Office, it is renowned for its Victorian architecture, fireproof design, and rich history dating back to medieval times. After a major renovation, it reopened in 2002 as the largest new university library in the UK since World War II, offering extensive collections and a unique historic atmosphere.
A brief summary to The Maughan Library
- Chancery Ln, London, WC2A 1LR, GB
- +442078484440
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9 am-7 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-1 am
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays between 9am and 7pm for full access to study spaces and collections.
- Take time to admire the Victorian architectural details like the painted zinc ceilings and cast-iron shelving.
- Explore the rare collections, including historic legal documents and original manuscripts.
- Use the library’s café and group study rooms for a comfortable academic experience.
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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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Chancery Lane Station (Central Line), approximately a 5 to 10-minute walk to the library. Services run frequently, and an Oyster or contactless card fare costs around £2.50.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Chancery Lane, including routes 8, 25, and 242. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on starting location. Bus fares are about £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations typically takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic, with fares ranging from £8 to £15.
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Walking
If you are nearby, walking to the Maughan Library offers a pleasant urban stroll through historic legal London. Walking times vary but expect 10 to 20 minutes from central areas like Covent Garden or Holborn. The terrain is flat and accessible.
The Maughan 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 The Maughan Library
Historic Foundations and Medieval Origins
The site of the Maughan Library has a history stretching back to 1232, when King Henry III established the "House of Converts," a sanctuary for Jews who had converted to Christianity. This medieval complex evolved into the Rolls Estate, housing the Rolls Chapel and serving as the residence of the Master of the Rolls, custodian of the Court of Chancery's records. Over centuries, the chapel was rebuilt multiple times, including a notable 1617 reconstruction by Inigo Jones, with remnants such as an arch, stained glass panels, and a mosaic floor still visible today.Transformation into the Public Record Office
In the mid-19th century, the site was repurposed as the Public Record Office, designed by Sir James Pennethorne beginning in 1851. This building was pioneering as England's first purpose-built fireproof structure, constructed to safeguard the nation’s most important legal and governmental documents after the devastating 1834 fire at the Palace of Westminster. The design featured compartmentalized storage cells, cast-iron shelving with slate shelves, and no heating to minimize fire risk. Additions included a clock tower with a water tank and ornamental pepper-pot towers, with decorative zinc panels painted to resemble wood — a rare surviving Victorian technique.Architectural Significance and Renovation
The Maughan Library is a Grade II* listed neo-Gothic masterpiece with Victorian detailing, including a distinctive dome influenced by the British Museum’s Round Reading Room. After the Public Record Office moved to Kew in the late 1990s, King's College London acquired the building in 1998. A £35 million renovation led by Gaunt Francis Architects transformed the former archive into a modern university library, balancing preservation with new functionalities such as group study rooms, lifts, and a student café. The project retained original features like two storage cells and cast-iron doors, blending historic austerity with warm wood and natural light.Collections and Academic Role
Today, the Maughan Library serves as King's College London's main research library, hosting extensive collections across arts, humanities, science, and law. It houses notable archives such as the Carnegie Collection of British Music, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Historical Collection, and rare incunabula. The library also preserves valuable medical and military archives, including original manuscripts and letters from historic figures like Joseph Lister. This blend of rich heritage and academic resources makes it a vital hub for scholarship.Cultural and Educational Importance
The Maughan Library stands not only as a repository of knowledge but also as a symbol of London's legal and academic history. Its location in the heart of legal London, on historic Chancery Lane, connects it to centuries of judicial tradition. The building’s adaptive reuse from a fireproof government archive to a vibrant university library exemplifies successful heritage conservation, recognized by awards such as the 2003 City Heritage Award. Named after alumnus Sir Deryck Maughan and his wife Lady Maughan, the library reflects the ongoing legacy of philanthropy and education.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to the Maughan Library encounter an atmosphere of scholarly gravitas enriched by the building’s architectural grandeur. The interplay of gothic arches, painted zinc ceilings, and tessellated floors creates a distinctive environment that inspires study and reflection. The library’s design maximizes natural light while preserving historic elements, offering a serene yet intellectually stimulating space. Whether exploring rare collections or simply admiring the Victorian craftsmanship, the Maughan Library offers a unique blend of history and modern academic life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hare Pl
0.2 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
Prince Henry's Room
0.2 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
3 Gunpowder Square
0.2 km
A modern square in London’s financial district commemorating the dramatic history of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot and Guy Fawkes’ daring conspiracy.
St Clement Danes Church
0.3 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
Ludgate Circus
0.4 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
Holborn Viaduct
0.5 km
A grand Victorian bridge spanning London's hidden Fleet valley, blending engineering innovation with ornate artistry and rich history.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.5 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
The Old Watch House
0.5 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
Victoria Embankment
0.6 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.8 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Queen Anne Statue
0.8 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
Observation Point
0.8 km
Discover breathtaking views and iconic landmarks at Observation Point, a must-visit scenic attraction along the River Thames in London.
South Bank Community Area
0.8 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
Temple Bar London
0.8 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Dunstan-in-the-West
0.1 km
Discover St Dunstan-in-the-West, a neo-Gothic marvel on Fleet Street with a rich history spanning over a millennium and unique octagonal design.
John Wilkes statue
0.1 km
Explore the dynamic bronze statue of John Wilkes on Fetter Lane, celebrating a fiery 18th-century champion of freedom and London’s political heritage.
The Old Bank of England
0.2 km
Discover the historic charm of The Old Bank of England, a premier pub in London, offering delicious food, local brews, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Dr Johnson's House
0.2 km
Step into the historic home of Samuel Johnson and explore the birthplace of the English dictionary in the heart of London’s literary past.
Hodge The Cat Statue
0.2 km
Discover the charming bronze statue of Hodge, Samuel Johnson's beloved cat, perched on a dictionary in historic Gough Square, London.
Temple Bar Memorial
0.2 km
Uncover the historical significance of Temple Bar Memorial, a captivating landmark in the heart of London, reflecting the city's rich heritage and culture.
The Seven Stars
0.2 km
One of London’s oldest pubs, The Seven Stars blends centuries of history with a lively legal atmosphere and eclectic charm in Holborn.
Fleet St
0.2 km
Historic London street famed as the traditional home of British journalism, rich in literary heritage and hidden urban secrets.
The Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn
0.2 km
Explore the historic legal heart of London at Lincoln's Inn, where centuries of law, architecture, and tradition converge in a serene urban oasis.
Temple Church
0.2 km
Explore the exquisite Temple Church, a 12th-century architectural marvel in London, rich in history and breathtaking beauty.
Royal Courts of Justice
0.3 km
Explore the Royal Courts of Justice, a stunning Gothic architectural masterpiece in London, showcasing the city's rich legal history and vibrant culture.
London Silver Vaults
0.3 km
Explore the world’s largest underground silver marketplace beneath historic Chancery Lane, where centuries of craftsmanship shine behind steel vault doors.
Middle Temple Venue Hire
0.3 km
A stunning Elizabethan hall at the heart of London’s legal heritage, blending history, architecture, and tradition in a serene riverside setting.
Staple Inn
0.3 km
Discover Staple Inn, London’s last Tudor timber-framed Inn of Chancery, a historic legal and wool trading hub that survived fire, war, and centuries of change.
The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple
0.4 km
Discover the historic heart of English law and royal heritage at the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, home to stunning Elizabethan architecture and centuries of tradition.
Essential places to dine
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.4 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Sarastro
0.7 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.8 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Margot
0.8 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.8 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.8 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Balthazar
0.8 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
St. John
0.9 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.9 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Chez Antoinette
0.9 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.9 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Punch & Judy
0.9 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Circus
1.0 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Twinings - The Strand
0.3 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
The Store X
0.4 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
not just a shop
0.5 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.8 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.8 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Smithfield Market
0.8 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
j-me original design ltd
0.8 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Sugar And Style
0.8 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.9 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.9 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.9 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.9 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Persephone books
1.0 km
Discover the hidden treasures of 20th-century women’s literature at Persephone Books, a Bloomsbury gem celebrating forgotten female voices.
Rokit Covent Garden
1.0 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
1.0 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Parrot
0.4 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Plume Wine Bar
0.8 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Be At One - Russell Street
0.8 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.8 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Princess Louise
0.8 km
Step into the Princess Louise, a stunning Victorian gin palace in Holborn, where opulent interiors and rich history blend in a timeless London pub experience.
Lyaness
0.8 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.8 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.9 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Beaufort Bar
0.9 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
The Understudy
0.9 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
American Bar
0.9 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Crusting Pipe
0.9 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.9 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
The Duke
0.9 km
A classic Bloomsbury pub offering warm hospitality, traditional drinks, and hearty British fare in a cozy setting.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
1.0 km
London’s intimate chocolate cocktail bar blending rich flavors, stylish ambiance, and over 20 unique chocolate-infused drinks.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.7 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Proud Late
0.8 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.8 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
London Best Night Clubs
1.0 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
The Roxy
1.1 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.1 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.2 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Ivy Club
1.2 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Heaven
1.2 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.4 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Club49Soho
1.4 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
1.5 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.5 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Cirque Du Soul
1.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Styles
- Gothic Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
