Although they may be considered old fashioned by some, library rooms are still a popular addition to many homes. A personal library is not only reserved for scholars, but for all lovers of knowledge, escapism and adventure. Even with the invention of tablets and e-readers to replace books, there’s nothing quite like holding something tangible in your hands, examining the unique cover and enjoying the excitement of turning another page. Whilst people commonly retreat to a library for a place of refuge or a source of enlightenment, libraries differ greatly from home to home, reflecting the personality of each person who owns them.

We have put together our top pick of the best libraries in the UK and overseas. 

1. Heathfield, East Sussex, 6 bedrooms

Built in 1790, this former Coaching Inn has been renovated by the current owners and now boasts six bedrooms, a breakfast-kitchen and expansive reception areas, tastefully decorated throughout whilst retaining much of its period charm and arranged over three floors.

One of the four main reception rooms includes the library and TV room, with reclaimed tile flooring and access to an abundance of natural light and the terrace through bi-fold doors.

2. Sleaford, Lincolnshire, 5 bedrooms

The Eagles is a wonderful executive family home located in an enviable position. The vast double-height reception hall with a striking central staircase presents an impressive welcome into the home, leading through to two grand reception rooms, a bespoke open-plan family kitchen and conservatory, and four bedroom suites.

Additionally, the home benefits from a fitted library with exposed beams ideal for work or leisure, a bar, a spacious garden room and studio, and approximately four acres of gardens with a tennis court.

3. Gauteng, South Africa, 6 bedrooms

Set over three floors, this magnificent Tuscan-style villa incorporates the finest of grand living, boasting focal features such as a sweeping staircase, high ceilings, chandeliers and marble flooring. Large reception areas in this home flow to the outdoor entertaining areas and swimming pool, facilitating exceptional entertaining.

The impressive master suite benefits from a fully fitted library or study, in addition to wide windows and individual balconies offering glorious sunset views of the garden.

4. Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France, 9 bedrooms

This unique and beautifully restored 19th century bastide includes three additional houses, a pool house, guest house and caretaker’s accommodation. This property is set within an impressive 22,000m2 plot of land with two swimming pools, an olive grove and a small vineyard, surrounded by calm, breathtakingly beautiful views. 

Entirely renovated in 2010, the manor house boasts plenty of comfortable rooms for leisure, including a generous library with a fireplace.  

5. Murcia, Spain, 7 bedrooms

This prestigious property is centrally positioned on a large plot in one of the most recognised sports and leisure resorts in Europe, called La Manga Club, attracting an exclusive clientele. This generous seven-bedroom villa benefits from traditional architectural features and high-end finishes, a private swimming pool, landscaped gardens, garage, cinema room, staff accommodation and stunning sea and golf resort views.

The ground floor offers a multitude of reception areas, ideal for reading through the variety of content the bookshelves have to offer. 

6. Chelmsford, Essex, 5 bedrooms

This impressive modern residence boasts five bedrooms, two with en suite showers and one with a balcony enjoying views over the manicured rear garden and adjoining meadow. There is also a recently renovated fitted open-plan kitchen and dining room with glass bi-fold doors leading to the travertine patio and lawned garden beyond.

In addition to a dual aspect lounge with a feature Inglenook fireplace, the home enjoys a second sitting room and a library to offer plenty of space to escape, relax or work in peace.

7. Gauteng, South Africa, 3 bedrooms

This lovely country home in South Africa is set within two acres, offering the best of both worlds with countryside living and easy access into the nearest town. The property features a spacious French Provincial style kitchen, a generous dining room, two lounge rooms including one with a bar and wood-burning fireplace, three bedrooms, a patio area, an outdoor swimming pool and a separate income-generating cottage.

Within the main home, there is a simple, yet sophisticated library and study room with built-in cupboards, ideal for dealing with paperwork or reading.  

8. Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, 5 bedrooms

This spacious five-bedroom family home is situated at the end of a quiet cul de sac boasting a generous south-facing rear garden with an entertaining patio area. The ground floor of this home has been extended, offering a kitchen and breakfast room and five reception rooms including a large sitting room with a feature fireplace and log burning stove.

Adjoining from the hallway, sitting room and family room is the library room, ideally situated for quickly grabbing a book and curling up on the nearest sofa.

9. Cascais, Portugal, 5 bedrooms

Quinta Patino is a luxurious and secure residential development, where you can see elegance and discretion combined with superb design and beautiful gardens with lakes and views of the sea and Sintra hills. This lavish villa has five bedrooms including a maid’s suite, four bathrooms, living room, dining room, leisure suite and private swimming pool.

Adjoining from the living room is a library snug room with plenty of comfortable seating and a desk, ideal for tending to paperwork or relaxing.

10. Halifax, West Yorkshire, 6 bedrooms

Broad Carr House is a wonderful family home set within beautiful grounds with far reaching views over countryside and seven acres of mature gardens with a formal rose garden, a level lower lawn, open park land, stables, woodland and a lake.

With original elements of the house dating back to the mid-seventeenth century, the property is steeped in history. The latest addition to the main house is the fantastically light and airy octagonal library, which occupies a former courtyard.

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