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The Cranston Library

St. Mary Magdalene, Chart Lane, Reigate, Surrey, RH2 7RN

  • 07 Sep 2024
  • In person
  • Pre-booking not required

Discover a tiny, exquisite parish library founded in the early 18th century, a forerunner of today’s public libraries. Find out about its history, and the story of its remarkable founder, Andrew Cranston.

Founded on 14 March 1701, the library is situated in a small chamber above the vestry in the parish church of St Mary Magdalene, Reigate, Surrey, where it has been since its foundation. Possibly the first public lending library in England, it contains works of literature, history, geography, science, classics and theology.

Timings & Tours

Saturday 07 September:
1000-1600

Location & directions

St. Mary Magdalene, Chart Lane, Reigate, Surrey, RH2 7RN

Contact on day:
Hilary Ely 07783 955021
Telephone number:
+447783955021

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

The library located in St Mary Magdalene Church, and is reached via a narrow staircase, with no alternative access. Owing to the size of the room, the number of visitors at a time is restricted to 8. No pre-booking is required, but there may be a queue or a delay.

Additional information

Facilities listed above are in St Mary Magdalene Church which is open at the same time, so you can combine visits.

Max no of people per tour:
8
Est. tour duration:
0 hour(s) 20 minute(s)

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