Join the Baskerville Society for a private tour of Lichfield Cathedral library and view it's significant holdings of manuscripts and books which include the Duchess of Somerset’s bequest made in 1673, amounting to 1000 volumes from the late Duke’s library.  The bequest included the fifteenth-century MS of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, Orders of Charles I for the regulation of the Prince’s Household and the eighth century St Chad Gospels (which the Duchess had looked after during the Civil War). 

Other volumes of interest include a Henry VIII Great Bible, a 1578 Bishops’ Bible and a fine collection of rare and interesting King James’ Bibles (including a Baskerville Bible and his Book of Common Prayer).  As well as theological books the library contains a substantial collection of books on geography and travel.  It also houses a significant collection of early printed and manuscript music from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, mostly church music but also instrumental music.  The most important works are the seven Barnard part books, the most complete set in existence and an invaluable resource for Tudor church music.

Bookings should be made in advance HERE

TICKET PRICE £18. Payment by cheque or cash on the day.