Lunchtime Talk: The English Print Revolution
Discover how Westminster-based printer William Caxton played a vital role in the revolutionary history of the printed word.
Join Dr Michael Durrant and Dr Karen Attar from the University of London as they step back in time to 15th century Westminster to mark the 550th anniversary of William Caxton bringing the printing press to England. Find out how printing has shaped both our language and the way that we consume the written word to this day.
About the Lunchtime Talk Series
Held on the second Wednesday of every month at St Margaret’s Church, our Lunchtime Talk series invites visitors to explore different aspects of Westminster Abbey’s rich history. Each talk features expert speakers and unique perspectives, perfect for anyone interested in art, architecture, and heritage.
About Michael Durrant and Karen Attar
Dr Michael Durrant is Lecturer in Book History and Programme Convenor for the MA/MRes in the History of the Book at the Institute of English Studies, School of Advanced Study, University of London. His research focuses on early modern print culture, with interests in early modern printers, paratexts, and the material and social lives of books. He is the author of The Dreadful Name of Henry Hills: The Lives and Afterlives of a Seventeenth-Century Printer (Manchester University Press, 2026) and has published on early modern material texts, book use, textual transmission, and literary culture. He is co-editor of the forthcoming Routledge Companion to Book Studies and has worked closely with libraries, archives, and museums on research, teaching, and public engagement.
Dr Karen Attar is the Curator of Rare Books and University Art at Senate House Library, University of London, and was for many years a research fellow at the University’s Institute of English Studies. With Michael Durrant, she co-curated the Library’s exhibition ‘The English Print Revolution: Caxton and Beyond’. She has published widely on the history of libraries and library collections. Her most significant publication is the third edition of the Directory of Rare Book and Special Collections in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (2016).
Ticketing information
This event does not include entry to Westminster Abbey. We recommend looking at the Visit us pages to plan a visit during opening hours.
If you would like to look around the rest of the Abbey during your visit then we recommend you do so before you attend the Lunchtime Talk. This is to allow you enough time to see as much as possible.
Free for Associates but booking is required. Admission will be granted upon presentation of a valid Association membership card.
Age suitability
This event is for adults and young people over the age of 16, please see our family pages for information and events to explore this theme as a family.
Timings
Doors will open at 12:45pm and the talk will begin at 1:00pm. There will be time for an audience Q&A from 1:40pm.
Meeting location
This event takes place in St Margaret's Church, please follow main visitor entry route through the security check where the event will be signposted.
Access and security
Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone).
On your arrival, your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, large backpacks or folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you.
The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking. [email protected]
Filming and photography
Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted in St Margaret's. See our photography policy for more information.
