The Library

An outstanding collection

Sir Paul Getty spent 25 years assembling one of the finest private collections of books and manuscripts in the world. When he moved to Wormsley, he commissioned the building of the castellated Library, as an extension of the main house.

The Estate continues to invest in this outstanding collection – which features the first edition of Caxton’s printing of The Canterbury Tales, Anne Boleyn’s Psalter and the first folio of Shakespeare’s “Comedies, Histories and Tragedies”. Other highlights include manuscripts dating from the 12th to the 15th Century, important Bibles and extraordinary modern bindings.

A unique venue

This magical literary venue is a fitting auditorium for private readings such as Shakespeare, Shelley and Keats or poetic reviews. The Library’s exclusivity makes it a classic setting for hosting VIP clients or fundraising occasions in a place few can experience. There are few locations to be found that house such an extent of literacy magnitude, leaving those fortunate enough to visit in appreciative awe.

For those with a desire to bring an educational aspect to their event, this beautifully curated Library would prove to be ideal for those wishing to facilitate small gatherings in the most uniquely placed position,

Its Wedding Licence for a congregation of up to 15 people makes it one of the most exclusive places in the country in which to be married.

Tours

The Estate is delighted to make available certain exhibits to the public that they consider to be of an educational and cultural nature. Certain works of art will be accessible to the public on days on which library visits, garden visits, cricket events or the Garsington Opera events occur. These include sculptures by Damien Hirst, Thomas Schutte, Mel Kendrick, Barry Flanagan, and Tristano di Robilant.

Access to view these works is made available through public tours for those who are ticket holders of the above events.

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