The Lit & Phil

The Lit & Phil is a literary hideout in the heart of Newcastle. We are the largest independent library outside London and one of the most prestigious and beautiful libraries in the world.  Free to visit, visitors can lose themselves in a truly beautiful place, browse over 200,000 books and CDs, take in a concert or talk, or just relax with a coffee and soak up the 200 years of history.

Our books range from 16th century tomes to modern fiction, and we have the largest music collection in the North of England plus a dazzling events programme packed with jazz, folk and classical music, celebrity author evenings, theatre and storytelling, poetry reading and classes covering everything from bookbinding to Latin, fine art to creative writing. 

We are a sanctuary for book lovers, an oasis for musicians and a realm of magic and mystery for children and the young-at-heart. 

Here on our YouTube channel we will give events previews and literary serials - coming soon!