Robert Burns and the Glenriddell Manuscripts
Schedule
Thu Jan 22 2026 at 05:30 pm to 06:30 pm
UTC+00:00Location
National Library of Scotland | Edinburgh, SC
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.
When you book an event, your personal information will be held and used by the National Library of Scotland and our third-party suppliers for the purposes of allowing you to attend the event and for audience research. For more information, visit the National Library of Scotland privacy pages, in particular the events notice and feedback and complaints notice. We expect attendees to behave respectfully towards presenters, guests and other audience members.
Where is it happening?
National Library of Scotland, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, United KingdomEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 0.00

















