Gladstone's Library: A Sanctuary for Scholars and Writers
2024-07-30
Previously known as St Deiniol's Library, Gladstone’s is a residential library in Hawarden. The library is the only residential library in the UK, and has 26 bedrooms, a restaurant, and various reading rooms. Whether you're seeking inspiration, deep study, or a peaceful getaway, Gladstone's Library provides an unparalleled experience that celebrates your love of learning.
A Brief History
Gladstone's Library, established in 1895, is the realisation of William Ewart Gladstone's vision, a four-time British Prime Minister and prolific writer.
At the time when he was alive, Gladstone allowed the locals and children to get access to his library and use his books. Later, before his death, he decided to contribute even further to the library by donating 40 thousand pounds and giving up his own collection. With this final act of generosity, the library was officially established.
In 1898, Gladstone passed away. Appeals were made to fund the library and create a building for it. The Gladstone family also funded the residential wing of the library, and the library welcomed its first resident in 1906.
The Library Collections
The collections at Gladstone's Library are vast and varied, encompassing a broad spectrum of subjects. There are various books on theology, philosophy, history, and literature.
Around 20 thousand books are in Gladstone’s own collection. Additional books can amount to around 150 thousand volumes of books and journals. Another notable collection is Glynne-Gladstone Archive, which includes letters of correspondence concerning the family, business, and estate. Among the topics you will find are theology, history, literature, culture, and politics.
One fascinating thing about the library is its unique cataloguing system. It is a departure from Dewey’s tradition, although some of the newer collections are on the basis of Dewey’s system.
A Silent Library
For a person who longs for a quiet holiday filled with reading, writing, and studying, Gladstone’s Library is like an oasis within the UK. Among the people who visit the library are academics, students, and all lovers of literature.
The reading rooms at Gladstone's Library are designed to provide a haven of tranquillity and focus. The popular belief is that writers have managed to write up to 300 volumes of books in these reading rooms.
With all the necessary facilities, such as Wi-Fi, and access to hundreds of books, you are sure to enjoy reading, writing, and reflecting. Here, you will also find other researchers, academics, and historians with shared interests and likely future friends.
Food for Thought Cafe
Here, you can try a host of local specialties and lovely drinks.
The Food for Thought Cafe at Gladstone's Library is a welcoming and inclusive space, open to both residential guests and day visitors. Guests can enjoy a selection of delicious lunch dishes, made with locally-sourced ingredients. The cafe also features an array of homemade cakes and scones, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or enjoying a hot drink.
Speaking of drinks, the cafe boasts an impressive selection. The hot drinks menu includes various types of tea and a range of coffee options, ensuring that you can find your perfect pick-me-up.
Visiting Gladstone’s Library
Gladstone's Library welcomes visitors throughout the year. The reading rooms are open from 9 am to 5 pm, and the whole library is open seven days a week.
The library hosts a lot of workshops, courses, and talks. It is a good idea to check the library’s calendar beforehand to see what’s on. Most of the courses are held by great educators and wonderful scholars, and are easily sold out.
The library is located on Church Lane in Hawarden, and is about 10 minutes by car from the Northop Hall Hotel. If you are taking a train from Bidston or Wrexham, then you should get off at Hawarden railway station. The station is only a 6 minutes walk from Gladstone’s Library.
With its rich history, extensive collections, and serene atmosphere, Gladstone’s Library offers a unique retreat for scholars, writers, and anyone with a passion for learning. If you are on a tour of Wales and consider yourself a bookworm, this library is the place for you. You may stay some nights while attending a workshop or a particular course or simply reading and studying in one of the reading rooms.
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