State Rooms History Events and Weddings Plan a Visit What’s On Early printed books collected by the second Earl Spencer were ‘generally regarded as the greatest in private hands in England or abroad. On a visit in 1828 the artist Benjamin Robert Haydon professed himself amazed by “the first editions, vellum copies, rare Boccacios, unaccountable Dantes, impossible to be found Virgils, and not to be understood first editions of Homer.” Joseph Friedman, 2011 Library The Second Earl Spencer commissioned Henry Holland to make alterations to this room, transforming it from a drawing room into a library to house part of his magnificent collection of books. Holland was also responsible for the plain coved ceiling, the simple acanthus leaf frieze and for widening the original sash window to make the present French doors to the terrace, overlooking the private garden of Spencer House and The Green Park. Indeed, Holland designed the original layout of the garden with an oval path and flowerbeds cut into the central lawn. When to visit Opening hours Open every Sunday (except during August) from 10.30am – 4.30pm (last tour). Access is by guided tour, which lasts approximately 1 hour. FULL VISITOR INFORMATION Quick Links Home House and Collection Events and Weddings Plan a visit What’s On Site Map Recommended Links Accessibility Legal Terms and Conditions Privacy Policy Cookies Disclaimer Copyright and Credits Contact Spencer House 27 St James’s Place London SW1A 1NR Guided Tours Tel: 020 7514 1958 Email: tours@spencerhouse.co.uk Events Tel: 020 7514 1964 Email: events@spencerhouse.co.uk Collection Enquiries (including filming and image requests) Tel: 020 7647 6216 Email: collections@rothschildfoundation.org.uk Before contacting us please see our Privacy Policy How To Find Us Click map for full view © COPYRIGHT 2021. SPENCER HOUSE LIMITED.