National Library of Scotland

Robert Burns and the Glenriddell Manuscripts

  • Dates and times
    22 January 2026, 5:30PM to 6:30PM
  • Type
    Talk
  • Location
    George IV Bridge
  • Price
    Free Book now
Robert Burn's Glenriddell Manuscript open showing the title page and portrait of him.

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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