Exploring Architecture: British Library Secret Maps

Exploring Architecture: British Library Secret Maps  

Thursday 8th January 2026, 2pm-3.30pm 

Join RIBA Learning to explore the Secret Maps Exhibition at the British Library. We will meet in the Learning Centre and have a go at documenting our journey to the British Library before checking out the exhibition. After the exhibition visit, we will reconvene to discuss what we saw and use our findings to make plans and document memories through mapping. 

About the Exhibition 

Step into the shadows at Secret Maps, a major new exhibition revealing the stories hidden in some of history’s most mysterious maps. 

Maps have always been more than just tools for navigation – in the hand of governments, groups and individuals, maps create and control knowledge. In Secret Maps, we trace the levels of power, coercion and secrecy that lie behind maps from the 14th century to the present day and uncover the invisible forces that draw and distort the world around us. 

Some of the maps on display reveal hidden landscapes, offering insight into places long forgotten or erased from official histories. Others are purposefully deceptive, designed to protect treasures, mask strategic locations, or reshape the way we see the world. This exhibition uncovers each of their individual secrets, revealing their hidden purposes and power. 

Discover the maps you were never meant to see. 

This event is for anyone aged 55 or over that has an interest in discovering more about architecture, with a chance for discussion.

Free, please book a place.

Exploring Architecture is a monthly free event exploring areas of architectural interest around London, usually on the first Thursday of the month. Each month will take a different format, including tours, creative activities and special insights into the RIBA Collections with an opportunity to socialise.

About the workshop leaders

The workshop leaders are Lil Adams and Edie Parfitt from RIBA Learning. Lil is artist, jeweller and educator, and Edie is an architectural designer with an interest in sustainability and collective learning. The RIBA Learning programme provides exciting opportunities for everyone to explore, question and celebrate architecture.

The British Library is the national library of the UK, holding over 170 million items including centuries-old books, stamps, maps and sound recordings.

Accessibility

There is lift access to each floor of the library, including the basement where the Learning Centre is located. There are accessible toilets on all floors too. Assistance dogs are welcome. More information about travelling to, from and around the library.