Love has been a driving force throughout history, inspiring some of the most beautiful and enduring works of art and literature. But it has also been the cause of some of the most dangerous and scandalous love affairs in British history. Now, for the first time, love letters from some of these infamous love affairs will be on display at The National Archives in a new exhibition titled “Love Letters”.
Opening on Saturday, 24 January 2026, the exhibition will showcase a collection of love letters that offer a glimpse into the passionate and often tumultuous relationships of some of Britain’s most notorious figures. Among the most intriguing exhibits is a never-before-seen love letter from John Cairncross, the “fifth man” of the infamous Cambridge Five spy ring.
For those unfamiliar with the Cambridge Five, they were a group of British spies who passed classified information to the Soviet Union during World War II and the early years of the Cold War. The group consisted of five members, all of whom were recruited while studying at Cambridge University. They were known for their intelligence and charm, but also for their dangerous and clandestine activities.
John Cairncross, the “fifth man”, was a key member of the Cambridge Five and played a crucial role in passing sensitive information to the Soviets. But what many may not know is that he was also involved in a passionate love affair with a fellow spy, who is believed to be the recipient of the love letter on display at the exhibition.
The letter, written in 1943, is a testament to the intensity of their love and the risks they were willing to take for each other. In it, Cairncross expresses his undying love and devotion, despite the dangers they faced as spies. He writes, “My dearest, I cannot imagine my life without you. You are my everything and I would risk everything for you.”
This love letter is just one of the many fascinating exhibits that will be on display at the Love Letters exhibition. Other notable love affairs featured include that of King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, who famously exchanged love letters while Henry was still married to his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. Their love ultimately led to the English Reformation and Anne’s tragic downfall.
Another famous love affair that will be showcased is that of Lord Nelson and Lady Emma Hamilton. Their passionate love letters, written during the Napoleonic Wars, reveal the depth of their love and the sacrifices they were willing to make for each other. Their story is one of love, scandal, and tragedy, making their letters a must-see for visitors to the exhibition.
But the Love Letters exhibition is not just about famous and dangerous love affairs. It also features letters from ordinary people, showcasing the universal experience of love and its power to inspire and transform lives. From soldiers writing to their sweethearts during war to love letters between same-sex couples, the exhibition celebrates the diversity and complexity of love.
The National Archives is excited to present this unique and captivating exhibition, which offers a rare glimpse into the private lives of some of Britain’s most intriguing historical figures. Love Letters is a reminder that love knows no boundaries and has the ability to both unite and divide us. So mark your calendars and don’t miss the opportunity to see these intimate and revealing love letters from British history.
