Learn: Learn
Local and national archives, large and small, public and private, general and specialist will open their doors throughout the year to celebrate the wealth of archive material across the UK.
What are archives?
Archives are collections of documents that have been created by an individual, family, business or organisation and have been specially chosen to be kept permanently. They can be written papers, digital documents, illustrations, maps, photographs or visual and sound recordings. An archive holds documents of historical importance, but the documents do not have to be very old!
What can I find out?
Practically anything! There are more than 2000 organisations across the UK and Ireland which hold a huge variety of archives. You can trace your family tree or discover the history of your house. Archives can help with school, college or university work or help in legal matters. Whether your favourite hobby is stamp collecting or bee-keeping there will be archives somewhere that will interest you!
Where are archives kept?
Not in dusty attics! Many archives are looked after by professionals in clean strong rooms that ensure a secure and safe environment for their continued survival. Normally they are made available to the public in a supervised search room where staff on duty will be able to provide advice and help. Most are free.
How can I find archives?
Places that keep archives are usually called a record office or an archives repository, or another similar name. Major national and university libraries as well as museums and businesses often hold archives. There are local record offices throughout England, Wales and much of Scotland. There is a directory called ARCHON which provides links to most record offices and other archive-holding institutions in the UK.
