We are open as usual: Tuesdays to Fridays 10am-5pm and Saturdays 10am-4pm.
Contact us:
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]

Displays, Exhibitions and Residencies

Find out what’s on in our vibrant new programme of displays, exhibitions and residencies.

Book display – poisonous books

In the mid-nineteenth century, emerald green was the height of fashion. Wallpapers, clothing, children's toys, a number of books in our library appeared in this vibrant colour. But the pigment used contained a dark secret . . . visit our book display to find out more.

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South West Shakespeare Festival

Illustrating Shakespeare We are delighted to be taking part in the South West Shakespeare Festival! Drop in to see beautiful Victorian illustrations of the Bard’s works in our pop-up display […]

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Book display – Illustrating a Victorian Christmas

Tuesday 25th November - Thursday 18th December

In December 1848, the Illustrated London News published a picture of the British royal family, gathered around an intricately decorated Christmas tree. This iconic image caught the imagination of the reading public, and set the tone for what a Victorian Christmas should look like. This display showcases the festive wood engravings that graced the pages of the periodical, the most successful illustrated newspapers of its day. 

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