Windsor Castle’s Royal Library

Founded in the 1830s by William IV, the Royal Library at Windsor Castle houses over 45,000 rare books and manuscripts, including treasures from the Tudor era to the present day. 

Spanning three historic rooms previously used by Catherine of Braganza as a bedchamber, a study and treasury by Henry VII and an indoor walking gallery by Elizabeth I, the collection features early printed works by William Caxton, annotated Shakespeare folios, illuminated manuscripts like the Sobieski Hours, and literary gems from Dickens, Byron, and Hardy. Reorganised by Prince Albert for accessibility, the Library covers a variety of topics from history and religion to language, antiquities, and fashion and many more.

Join our curator as we explore the history and uncover some of the highlights of the Royal Library at Windsor Castle.