Go To The Lit & Phil: Newcastle’s 200-Year-Old Literary Haven (Free to Read!)

#newcastletrips #newcastle #litandphil #booklovers #freeactivities #history #architecture Tucked in the heart of Newcastle, the Lit & Phil is a living relic of the Enlightenment—a private library open to all. Founded in 1825, its grand neoclassical Reading Room (complete with a legendary stuffed monkey perched among the shelves) invites wanderers to lose themselves in centuries of knowledge. While membership unlocks borrowing privileges, anyone can settle into leather armchairs, soak up the stained-glass glow, and read for free. Explore rotating exhibitions, catch live talks or music, or simply marvel at the soaring ceilings and mahogany shelves that have inspired generations of Geordie bookworms. 📚 Tip: Visit during one of their free lunchtime concerts or author talks—history feels alive here. 📍 Address: 23 Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE 🕒 Hours: Mon–Sat 9:30am–5pm (check website for event times)