Robert Burns and the Glenriddell Manuscripts

Thu Jan 22 2026 at 05:30 pm to 06:30 pm

National Library of Scotland | Edinburgh

National Library of Scotland
Publisher/HostNational Library of Scotland
Robert Burns and the Glenriddell Manuscripts
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Curator Ralph McLean explores Robert Burns’ Glennriddell Manuscripts, which contain one of the greatest collections of the Bard's work.
About this Event

Discover the incredible story of the Glenriddell Manuscripts - the biggest collection of Robert Burns’ original writings in the world.

This unique collection includes poems, songs, and letters that Burns himself gave to his friend, Robert Riddell. It contains original versions of famous works including ‘Holy Willie’s Prayer’ and ‘Tam o’ Shanter’.

Manuscripts Curator Ralph McLean explores the manuscripts’ colourful history. Learn how they passed through various hands before becoming a founding item of the National Library of Scotland. This talk will also reveal their fascinating connection to another major treasure - Burns’ First Commonplace Book.



About the speaker

Ralph McLean is Manuscripts Curator for the National Library of Scotland’s long 18th century collections. His remit covers 18th century literary manuscripts including those of Robert Burns.




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Event Venue & Nearby Stays

National Library of Scotland, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Tickets

GBP 0.00

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