Difference between revisions of "Research venues"

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Research Venues - Where and How
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[[Category:General Reference]]
  
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This page will contain info relating to reseach venues.
 
  
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=='''National Archives'''==
  
*name of the  place to research
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National Archives search your bags. Guildhall & First Avenue House (wills) scan your bags. Lockers at First Avenue House are big enough to take a suitcase, I don't think any of the others are.  
 
 
*Address
 
 
 
*Opening times
 
 
 
*Accessibility
 
 
 
*special considerations.
 
 
 
* peoples experiences/thoughts that might help you
 
 
 
'''Key points in visiting any research venue.'''
 
 
 
Go equipped ( small change, pencils, paper,basic notes.........)
 
 
 
Plan ahead
 
 
 
Dont take small children- they will soon get bored and distract you.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
=='''FRC & National Archives'''==
 
 
 
The Family Records Centre
 
1 Myddelton Street
 
London
 
EC1R 1UW
 
 
 
Website [http://www.familyrecords.gov.uk/frc/ A mine of info]
 
 
 
Disabled visitors may need to pre-book, especially a parking space [http://www.familyrecords.gov.uk/frc/visits/special_needs.htm special needs guidance/help availible]
 
 
 
You do not need a Reader's Ticket to use the services of the FRC.
 
Guide dogs permitted but no other pets.
 
Mobile phones and pagers must be in silent mode or switched off.
 
 
 
[http://www.familyrecords.gov.uk/frc/visits/guidance_users.htm For full llist of specific rules and regulations]
 
 
 
 
 
FRC & National Archives search your bags. Guildhall & First Avenue House (wills) scan your bags. Lockers at First Avenue House are big enough to take a suitcase, I don't think any of the others are.  
 
  
 
The entrance is on the right of the wedge-shaped building.; go up the steps or the ramp to the front door. There is an attendant who will want to check your bag. Best to go down to the basement to start with; here are toilets, refreshment area and cloakroom to leave coat (it gets warm upstairs). You will need a pound coin for a locker. Going back upstairs, walk through past the shop into big room dealing with BMD certificates.  
 
The entrance is on the right of the wedge-shaped building.; go up the steps or the ramp to the front door. There is an attendant who will want to check your bag. Best to go down to the basement to start with; here are toilets, refreshment area and cloakroom to leave coat (it gets warm upstairs). You will need a pound coin for a locker. Going back upstairs, walk through past the shop into big room dealing with BMD certificates.  
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The floor above deals with census data; and there are interesting books.
 
The floor above deals with census data; and there are interesting books.
  
The rooms, particularly the Map Room is huge, stuffy and with a very low ceiling, which personally makes me feel a bit queasy. You have to be very quiet in there and there's a couple of security guys who parade around the room - think school exams .
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The rooms, particularly the Map Room is huge, stuffy and with a very low ceiling, which personally makes me feel a bit queasy. You have to be very quiet in there and there's a couple of security guys who parade around the room - think school exams.
  
 
The register indexes are actually huge books, and heavy! Take down one book at a time and see what you can find. All the books are alphabetical by surname, Just a matter of working round all the other people, and getting through the years you want.
 
The register indexes are actually huge books, and heavy! Take down one book at a time and see what you can find. All the books are alphabetical by surname, Just a matter of working round all the other people, and getting through the years you want.
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FRC has a sandwich carousel, drinks machines etc but they can run out. TNA has a big cafe/restaurant, but there is also a water cooler & you can take your own sarnies.
 
FRC has a sandwich carousel, drinks machines etc but they can run out. TNA has a big cafe/restaurant, but there is also a water cooler & you can take your own sarnies.
National Archives.Do not eat or drink anywhere else in the building.
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National Archives. Do not eat or drink anywhere else in the building.
 
The cafe is good and I like the fact that you can use the computer there to see if your documents are ready.  
 
The cafe is good and I like the fact that you can use the computer there to see if your documents are ready.  
  
  
The security folk can be a bit intimidating, and they need to be vigilant may wander where you are working andcheck your belongings as you move around the building - dont feel intimidated.There's one particular man on the "going up the stairs" security check who is a mite scary! Woe betide you if you have loose papers in your possession!The research staff are all very helpful.
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The security folk can be a bit intimidating, and they need to be vigilant may wander where you are working and check your belongings as you move around the building - don't feel intimidated. There's one particular man on the "going up the stairs" security check who is a mite scary! Woe betide you if you have loose papers in your possession! The research staff are all very helpful.
  
  
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Staff have always been very helpful - ie printing off census from film.
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Staff have always been very helpful - i.e. printing off census from film.
 
 
You can use biro at the FRC.
 
  
It is due to close early 2008.
 
  
 
=='''London Metropolitan Archives'''==
 
=='''London Metropolitan Archives'''==
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EC1R 0HB
 
EC1R 0HB
  
Opening hours
 
Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9.30am - 4.45pm
 
Tuesday and Thursday 9.30am - 7.30pm
 
see website for 2007 saturday dates
 
  
LMA website: [http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/Corporation/leisure_heritage/libraries_archives_museums_galleries/lma/lma.htm LMA]
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LMA website: [http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/Corporation/LGNL_Services/Leisure_and_culture/Records_and_archives/ LMA Website]
  
For people with disabilties visiting the LMA [http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/Corporation/leisure_heritage/libraries_archives_museums_galleries/lma/visitor_information/access.htm disabled access services]
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For people with disabilties visiting the LMA [http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/Corporation/leisure_heritage/libraries_archives_museums_galleries/lma/visitor_information/access.htm Disabled Access Services]
  
 
By Tube: Circle / Metropolitan / Hammersmith & City Line to Farringdon
 
By Tube: Circle / Metropolitan / Hammersmith & City Line to Farringdon
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Seems to be a long walk from any public transport.
 
Seems to be a long walk from any public transport.
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Few printers - and they're coin-operated and don't give change. It's worth having small change with you: 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p unless you reckon you'll be doing so much it's worth buying a card.
 
Few printers - and they're coin-operated and don't give change. It's worth having small change with you: 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p unless you reckon you'll be doing so much it's worth buying a card.
  
  
=='''The General records Office , Southport'''==
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=='''The General Records Office, Southport'''==
  
 
The GRO is not a venue that you can visit and conduct your own search.they do, however have occasional open days when visitors may be shown around the venue.
 
The GRO is not a venue that you can visit and conduct your own search.they do, however have occasional open days when visitors may be shown around the venue.
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The tour is not so much as to help with family history research but more of an insight as the the way the venue is run and how orders for certificates are processed. There may , on these open days, be a chance to attend seminars and learn more about researching family history.
 
The tour is not so much as to help with family history research but more of an insight as the the way the venue is run and how orders for certificates are processed. There may , on these open days, be a chance to attend seminars and learn more about researching family history.
  
=='''British Library IOC Reading Room, London '''==
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=='''British Library Reading Room, London '''==
  
 
Address The British Library,
 
Address The British Library,
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Opening times vary according to the day and are best confirmed on the website
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Opening times vary according to the day and are best confirmed on the website.
 
 
(This contains the records of the East India Company -- company records, muster rolls, BMDs ships logs, check it out on a2a before you go. If you have relatives from the Raj, thenabouts or thereabouts, this is for you.) ''needs substitution -not clear''
 
  
 
Registration necessary to use the facilities, but this is quick and easy. Go up the escalators and follow the signs for registration.
 
Registration necessary to use the facilities, but this is quick and easy. Go up the escalators and follow the signs for registration.
 
   
 
   
You fill in a form on computer, are given a queue number and wait to be called by a member of staff who will ask to see a photo ID of some sort -- passport driving licence etc, and proof of address -- bank statement, utility bill etc. there is a full list of possibilites on their web site.
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You fill in a form on computer, are given a queue number and wait to be called by a member of staff who will ask to see a photo ID of some sort -- passport driving licence etc, and proof of address -- bank statement, utility bill etc. there is a full list of possibilities on their web site.
  
 
They then take your photo and issue you with a readers card.
 
They then take your photo and issue you with a readers card.
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Be prepared to have your plastic bag carefully searched when you come out. Staff are polite and courteous when doing so, and when you consider what treasures they hold, you can't blame them.
 
Be prepared to have your plastic bag carefully searched when you come out. Staff are polite and courteous when doing so, and when you consider what treasures they hold, you can't blame them.
 
Working conditions comfortable.
 
Working conditions comfortable.
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=='''PRONI'''==  
 
=='''PRONI'''==  
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Contact Reader Services for details on group visits.
 
Contact Reader Services for details on group visits.
  
Public Holidays 2007
 
 
Monday 19 March Monday 28 May Monday 24 December
 
Monday 9 April Thursday 12 July Tuesday 25December
 
Tuesday 10 April Friday 13 July Wednesday 26 December
 
Monday 7 May Monday 27 August
 
 
PRONI will be closed for stock-taking from Monday 26 November 2007 to Friday 7 December 2007
 
 
How to get there.
 
How to get there.
 
By Bus:
 
By Bus:
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Ladywell House for census, population, household and vital statistics data is located in Corstorphine on the west side of Edinburgh. Head west on the A8 from the city centre and turn left at the Drumbrae roundabout. At the second set of traffic-lights turn left into Ladywell Road. Ladywell House is on the left about 75 meters further on.
 
Ladywell House for census, population, household and vital statistics data is located in Corstorphine on the west side of Edinburgh. Head west on the A8 from the city centre and turn left at the Drumbrae roundabout. At the second set of traffic-lights turn left into Ladywell Road. Ladywell House is on the left about 75 meters further on.
 
The Edinburgh buildings are normally open to customers between 09:00 and 16:30 hours, Monday to Friday.
 
The Edinburgh buildings are normally open to customers between 09:00 and 16:30 hours, Monday to Friday.
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'''Monreith House'''
 
'''Monreith House'''
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Open by appointment
 
Open by appointment
  
=='''County venues'''==
 
 
A list of venues within each County:
 
 
For each CRO the website is listed on the relevant county page within  [[World_Index_Page#The_British_Isles|The British Isles]] section.
 
 
Please refer to this for specific directions and opening times
 
 
 
'''Bedfordshire''' 
 
 
Address:Pilgrim Centre, 20 Brickhill Drive Bedford MK41 7PZ
 
 
 
 
'''Berkshire '''
 
 
Address: 9 Coley Avenue ,Reading,Berkshire, RG1 6AF
 
 
CARN card needed
 
Some on site parking
 
About a 20 minute walk from the station
 
Don't think there's anywhere to eat or grab a drink nearby - they have a drinks machine and a place where you can eat
 
free lockers and loos
 
friendly and helpful staff
 
 
 
 
'''Buckinghamshire '''
 
 
Address: Centre for Buckinghamshire Studies,County Hall,Walton Street,Aylesbury, Bucks. HP20 1UU
 
 
Parking is a pain
 
Finding the CRO  is tricky - it's almost on the inner ring road close to  "The Blue Leanie" - a modern blue-glass-covered building that leans
 
 
 
'''Cambridgeshire''' 
 
 
Address:Ground Floor, Shire Hall, Castle Hill, Cambridge, CB3 0AP
 
 
The County Record Office, Cambridge is located on the ground floor of Shire Hall and is very small and cramped though staff are helpful
 
One mile north of the city centre and two miles from the railway station.
 
 
Disabled access is available. Please telephone the Record Office in advance of your visit wherever possible, especially if you need a parking space reserved, or you require wheelchair access; or else inform main reception (which is up a small flight of stairs from the road level) of your requirements upon arrival at Shire Hall.
 
 
There is limited parking in the visitors car park at Shire Hall. If this is full then the car park attendant will advise you of alternative parking arrangements. Park and ride is a good option
 
 
'''Huntingdon Branch'''
 
 
Located in its own building a short distance from the Market Square, close to the Cromwell Museum. There is free long stay car parking available at the Riverside car park, about 10 minutes walk away. This car park is free.
 
 
The railway station is about ten minutes walk away, and the bus station, situated next to the Library, is about five minutes walk away.
 
 
Opening times
 
Closed all day Monday.
 
Tuesday–Thursday: 09.00 – 17.15
 
Friday: 09.00 – 16.15
 
Closed at lunchtimes: 12.45 – 13.45
 
 
 
The Record Office is open on the second Saturday in each month, from 9.00 until 12.00 noon, by appointment only.
 
 
Appointments advisable  before visiting. If you have not made a prior booking, and the searchroom is full, then you will be turned away.
 
 
A valid CARN readers ticket is required. These can be issued free of charge as long as you provide official proof of name & address (such as a driver's licence, bank or pension book, gas bill, etc.).
 
 
There are no drink or food facilities in the Record Office itself, nor is there a public area to eat your own food. However, there are many cafes and pubs within easy walking distance in Huntingdon.
 
 
The searchroom is at the top of a steep flight of 21 stairs. A newly-installed stairlift now operates alongside the stairs.
 
 
 
'''Cheshire'''
 
 
Address: Cheshire and Chester Archives and Local Studies Service,Cheshire Record Office, Duke Street, Chester, Cheshire. CH1 1RL.
 
 
Monday 1.00pm - 5.00pm 
 
Tuesday 9.00am - 5.00pm
 
Wednesday 9.00am – 5.00pm
 
Thursday 9.00am - 5.00pm 
 
Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm
 
3rd Saturday in the month  9.00am – 4.00pm
 
 
By Rail:It is about 30 minutes walk to the Cheshire Record Office. Free Rail Link buses run from the railway station to the city centre. 
 
Bus Bus stations and Park and Ride services are also indicated on the location map.
 
For Cheshire Bus Services tel : 01244 602666
 
Parking Please note  there is no car parking at the Record Office except for disabled badge holders outside the office on Duke Street.  Some nearby sites and Park and Ride services
 
 
You will need a carn ticket.
 
 
It is always advisable to make an appointment before visiting.
 
Last orders for documents 45 minutes before closing daily; there is no lunchtime production between 12.30pm – 1.30pm. (It would be helpful if document requests are presented by 12.15pm to allow enough time for production).
 
 
Cloakroom provided. Lockers are available. No large items of luggage such as large briefcases, rucksacks or suitcases.
 
 
You should read the searchroom rules, hand in your CARN ticket and sign the register.
 
 
Staff at the reception desk will allocate you a table or microfilm reader. It is advisable to pre-book this.Some of the machinery is quite old.
 
 
Your CARN ticket will be returned to you when you leave.
 
 
There are toilets available, including a toilet for disabled people.
 
Area set aside for the consumption of readers' own refreshments with a tea / coffee machine and water dispenser.
 
There is a wide selection of cafes, pubs etc. nearby.
 
 
 
'''Cornwall'''
 
 
Address: Old County Hall, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3AY
 
Situated in Truro, Cornwall Record Office lies in the grounds of the Old County Hall site and is clearly marked by a sign stating 'County Records'.
 
 
The building is constructed on one level for easy access and toilets and a seating area are available in the foyer. There are no refreshments available at the Record Office, but a supermarket and café are located very near by.
 
 
Wheelchair access tables are available in the searchroom but please contact us before your visit to ensure maximum assistance.
 
 
Truro Railway Station is about five minutes walk away. Local bus services operate from the centre of Truro to the Railway Station.
 
 
Onsite parking at Old County Hall requires a permit which can be obtained from the Record Office. Pop in and pick up a permit before you go and park. A small number of disabled parking spaces are available immediately outside the Record Office.
 
 
Need a valid readers' ticket/Carn Visitors will also need pencils, as no pens are permitted in the searchroom.
 
 
Lockers provided in the foyer. The lockers use a £1 coin which is refundable. Only notepads, pencils, laptops and cameras are permitted in the searchroom.
 
 
The Record Office operates a system of timed productions. These take place every 30 minutes and in order to ensure the smooth running of the service, we ask that a maximum of 3 document request slips are submitted per collection. Please note that productions are suspended between 12:15pm and 1:30pm. Gloves and other preservation aids will be issued with documents, where necessary.
 
 
Mobile phone or pager is switched off.
 
 
When you arrive you will be asked to sign in the visitors register
 
 
Laptops and Cameras -Laptops may be used at the owner's risk and a mains operation power supply is provided.
 
 
Photography is allowed subject to a small charge and the completion of a copyright declaration form. However, we ask that you do not use a flash.
 
 
 
 
'''Cumberland'''
 
 
Address:
 
Cumbria County Council : Archives : Record Offices : Kendal Record Office
 
 
Easy enough to find but off site parking.
 
 
Offices themselves are in the bowels of the basement but very friendly staff.
 
 
Toilets available (free)
 
 
Cafeteria/coffee shop - not known but as it's in the town centre it's not far from those facilities anyway.
 
 
 
'''Derbyshire'''
 
 
Matlock Records Office 
 
 
Address:  New Street, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 3AG.
 
 
Opening hours:  Monday  -  Friday 9.30  -  16.45hrs.  Restricted service available between 12.30  -  2.00hrs. . Open one Saturday per month. 
 
 
Small onsite car parking facilities, plus roadside parking.  Office situated on steep hill. Matlock railway station  ten minutes’ walk.    Lockers provided for personal items.  White gloves provided.    Advisable to prebook visit and documents required.
 
Helpful staff.    Toilet facilities available.
 
 
 
 
 
'''Devon'''
 
 
Devon Record Office
 
 
Address:  Great Moor House, Bittern Road, Sowton, EXETER
 
 
Opening hours:  Monday-Friday  10.00 – 18.00 hrs.  Open 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month (except Bank Holidays)  09.30 – 12.30 hrs. 
 
 
31 designated parking spaces made available for visitors to Devon Record Office at the front of Great Moor House, access via Bittern Road.    Local bus services to and from Exeter city centre and railway station.
 
 
CARN ticket required.  Prebooking not required unless you wish to use microfiche reader.    Lockers available (£1 coins required –refundable).    Accommodation in search rooms available for laptop owners
 
 
Excellent facilities for disabled visitors including parking, ramp at entrance, toilets.  All public areas in Record Office are on ground floor.
 
 
 
 
Plymouth and West Devon Record Office
 
 
Open Monday -. Friday, closes early on Fridays.
 
Free car parking facilities in Clare Place, close to Records Office.  Bus service from town centre and railway station. 
 
Helpful staff.    Only one reader with printer available.
 
 
 
Plymouth Central Library
 
 
Holds a lot of general resources including local Parish Register films.
 
Specialist Naval studies section.
 
 
 
 
'''Dorset'''
 
 
Dorset History Centre / Dorset Records Office
 
 
Address:  off Bripport Road, Dorchester, Dorset.
 
 
Opening hours.  Monday/Tuesday/Thursday/Friday 09.00 – 17.00 hrs.  Wednesday 10.00 – 17.00 hrs.  Saturday 09.00 – 16.30 hrs.
 
 
Limited car parking available, permit available from reception.  Car parking facilities nearby and railway station 10 minutes walk.
 
CARN ticket required.    Pre-booking necessary should you wish to use fiche reader.  Staff available to answer queries.
 
Lockers available for handbags and personal belongings. 
 
Public common room  for eating and drinking - tea and coffee available. 
 
Toilet facilities including access for disabled visitors.
 
 
 
 
'''Durham'''
 
 
Address:
 
 
 
 
'''Essex''' 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Gloucestershire'''
 
 
Bristol Central Library.
 
 
Address:  College Green, Bristol BS1 5TL
 
 
Opening hours Monday/Tuesday/Thursday  09.30 - 19.30 hrs.  Wednesday 10.00 – 17.00hrs.  Friday/Satuday 09.30 – 17.00 hrs.  Sunday 13.00 – 17.00 hrs.
 
 
Bristol central library has a family history room upstairs.    Holds copies of microfiche of local newspapers, census returns, street directories and IGI.    Small onsite café but no parking.  Not child friendly.  Staff normally available to offer help.
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Hampshire'''
 
 
Address:
 
Fascinating town or, rather, city to wander round. Very close to the station. Free parking. Garden with seats outside the building.
 
Quite large. Very helpful staff, and last time the archivist helped search for a registration.
 
Refreshment area on top floor, tables, chairs and vending machine
 
Winchester Records Office
 
You need your CARN card to get in (Don't just show it on arrival at the foyer-reception and lock it in a locker, like I did at first! you won't be able to get any interesting original records out.)
 
 
Only a couple of readers with printers.
 
 
 
 
'''Herefordshire '''
 
 
Herefordshire Archive Service
 
 
Address:  Harold Street, Hereford.
 
 
Opening hours:  Monday/Tuesday/Thursday/Friday 09.15 – 16.45 hrs.  Wednesday 10.00 – 16.45hrs.  Saturday (2nd in each month) 09.15 – 16.45 hrs.
 
 
Limited parking facilities for disabled drivers (3 spaces).  20 minutes walk from railway and bus stations.
 
 
CARN ticket required.  Booking necessary.  Disabled toilet facilities and lift to first floor searchroom.  Refreshments vending machine (small change needed as 50p and £1 coins not accepted).  Various cafes nearby.
 
 
 
 
'''Hertfordshire''' 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Huntingdonshire '''
 
 
Address:
 
 
 
 
'''Kent '''
 
 
Centre for Kentish Studies:
 
Address:  Sessions House, County Hall, Maidstone
 
 
Opening hours:  Monday closed.  Tuesday – Friday 09.00 – 17.00 hrs.  Saturday (2nd and 4th of each month only) 09.00 – 13.00 hrs.
 
 
Holds official records including those of the County Council, parishes, and boroughs, as well as documents deposited by individuals and businesses
 
Booking essential.  Disabled visitor access.  Laptops permitted.
 
 
 
Canterbury Cathedral Archives
 
 
Address:  The Precincts, Canterbury, Kent,
 
 
Opening hours:  Monday – Thursday 09.00 – 17.00 hrs.  Friday closed.  Saturday (1st and 3rd in each month) 09.00 – 113-00 hrs.
 
 
Holds the records of the Cathedral, Canterbury Diocese, Canterbury City Council and of individuals and businesses of the Canterbury area.
 
 
Car parking facilities close by.  Park and ride schemes available.  Few minutes walk to railway station.    Onsite parking for disabled visitors (advance notice required), lift available to first floor searchroom, TV scanner for visually impaired.  Wheelchair accessible toilets available in the Cathedran Precincts.
 
CARN ticket required.
 
  
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==LDS Family History Libraries==
  
East Kent Archives Centre:
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*[http://www.familytreeforum.com/content.php/366-Latter-Day-Saints-Family-History-Libraries A Guide to the Latter Day Saints Family History Libraries]
 +
<br><br>
  
Address:  Enterprise Zone, Honeywood Road, Whitfield, Dover
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==Bank of England Archive & Museum==
 
Opening hours:  Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday 09.00 – 17.00 hrs.
 
  
Holds material for the Dover, Shepway and Thanet District Council areas, including records of local authorities, schools, hospitals, businesses, families and estates, as well as microfilm copies of local census returns.  No parish records held.
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*[http://www.bankofengland.co.uk/about/history/archive/index.htm Bank of England Archive]
Booking essential.  Disabled visitor access.   Laptops permitted
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<br>
 +
If you find any relatives that worked at the Bank of England, a visit to their archive is highly recommended, and the archivists are so very helpful.
  
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I started off with a father and two sons there, and after my visit, I came away with the father's father, another two sons, 2 son in-laws, and a father-in-law.
  
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You first look at the salary ledgers to give you an 'election' date into the bank, that date allows you to go to what amounts to the Governors 'appraisal books' which give date of birth, family relationships, religion, schooling, past employment, political or club memberships, attributes and weaknesses. They are carried out annually and note promotions and demotions, and the general performance of the employee. Then back to the salary books for date of 'quitting' retirement and death together with the pension value and any purchased investments, and sometimes the will itself.
  
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I became overwhelmed by it all, and have had to make another appointment for a return visit.
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It is by appointment only, cameras allowed - they will only photocopy 2 or 3 pages.
 +
It's a remarkable place.
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<br><br>
  
'''Lancashire '''
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==National Newspaper Archives==
  
Address:  
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*[http://www.bl.uk/collections/newspapers.html British Library ~ Newspapers]
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<br>
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Check their website to see if they advise about parking. I've not seen any available spaces. Colindale is within sight of the underground station, so it may be worth finding parking near a station further out. You can eat sandwiches on the premises, but the area isn't overflowing with pleasant little cafés.
  
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The catalogue is online, so you can browse this to decide what is likely to be of use. Bear in mind that the best period for obituaries is probably from the turn of the last century to about 1960. Men are more likely to get obituaries than women, and if you are really lucky you can get a funeral notice as well, with list of mourners, who sent wreaths etc.
  
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Have a look at their online database to see what papers they have and which ones you may want to look at. You can order up to four items online prior to your visit which will be ready and waiting for you when you arrive meaning you can get straight into your research the moment you are there.
  
'''Leicestershire'''
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Newspapers eat up time but, assuming you already know the date and place of death, your search may not take you very long. If you look at two or three different papers for different areas and periods, you do get a strong feeling of what was important to the readers and a real flavour of the times, even if you don't find anything promoting your research
 
 
The Record Office for Leicestershire, Leicester & Rutland
 
 
 
Address:  Long Street, Wigston Magna, Leicester, LE18 2AH
 
 
 
Opening hours:  Monday/Tuesday/Thursday 09.15 – 17.00 hrs.  Wednesday 09.15 -. 19.30 hrs.  Friday 09.15 – 16.45 hrs.  Saturday 09.15 – 12.15 hrs.
 
 
 
Free visitors car park close to Records Office.  One designated space for disabled visitor (please contact office prior to visit).    Several public free/pay car parks close by.  Bus service from town centre and railway station.
 
 
 
Toilet facilities.  Disabled visitor access.  Drinks vending machine and rest area near reception where visitors may eat and drink.
 
Magnifying glasses may be borrowed from the searchroom counter.  All microfilm/microfiche readers in the searchroom have magnification controls - one special microfilm/microfiche reader has greater magnification to assist readers with visual impairment.  Guide dogs admitted.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Lincolnshire'''
 
 
 
Address:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''LONDON (Middlesex)''' 
 
 
 
Address:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Norfolk'''
 
 
 
Address:
 
A pain to get to by public transport as its out of the city centre, though there is a bus service from the rail station that drops you on the roundabout nearby.
 
It closes at 12.00 on Saturday, but many of the parish records are available on microfilm/fiche at the Millennium Library in Norwich, which is open all day.
 
Staff efficient, but I didn't find them as friendly as other places.
 
 
 
 
 
'''Northamptonshire'''
 
 
 
Address: Records Office
 
Wootton Hall Park
 
Northampton
 
NN4 8BQ
 
 
 
 
 
Not easy to find, but once you have, parking is free and plentiful. All on one level in a modern building. Not really walkable from town centre or the station. Helpful staff. No refreshment facilities. Lockers for belonging (staff provide a token for use). Reader card needed.
 
 
 
'''Northumberland'''
 
 
 
Address:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Nottinghamshire '''
 
 
 
Address:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Oxfordshire '''
 
 
 
Address:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Rutland''' 
 
 
 
Address:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Shropshire'''
 
 
 
Address:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Somerset'''
 
 
 
Address: 
 
Somerset Record Office
 
Obridge Road
 
Taunton
 
TA2 7PU 
 
 
Telephone  01823 278805 (enquiries), 01823 337600 (appointments) 
 
 
 
Opening Hours:
 
Monday  2.00 pm - 5.00 pm 
 
Tuesday - Friday  9.00 am - 5.00 pm 
 
Alternate Saturdays  9.15 am - 12.15 pm 
 
 
 
Not within easy walking distance of the station but there are plenty of taxis. There is a small car park.
 
 
 
Appointments are essential and you will need a Reader's Ticket so take proof of ID. CARN tickets are acceptable.
 
 
 
Quite small and cramped and on one level. Free lockers, basic drinks available (make it yourself and put money in the box). Cotton or latex gloves (sold at reception) are required if you view original documents.
 
 
 
Friendly and helpful staff who photocopy while you wait.
 
 
 
 
 
'''Staffordshire'''
 
 
Walsall Local History Centre
 
 
 
Address:  Essex Street, Walsall, WS2 7AS
 
 
 
Opening hours.  Monday closed.  Tuesday 09.30 – 17.30 hrs.  Wednesday 09.30 – 19.00 hrs.  Thursday 09.30 – 17.30 hrs.  Friday 09.30 – 17.00 hrs.  Saturday 09.30 – 13.00 hrs.
 
 
 
Onsite car parking facilities.  Few minutes walk from Walsall town centre.    CARN ticket required.  No appointment necessary unless you wish to use microfilm/fiche readers.  Staff knowledgeable and friendly– willing to  provide guidance on an individual basis and help with the setting up of machines.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Suffolk''' 
 
 
 
Address:
 
Free parking. No refreshment facilities as such, but a table and a few chairs with drinks machine.
 
Very helpful.
 
 
 
 
 
'''Surrey '''
 
 
 
Southwark Local History Centre:
 
 
 
Address:  211 Borough High Street, London SE1 1JA
 
 
 
Limited on street parking.  NCP car park in Snowsfields.  Close to Borough tube station, 10 mins walk to London Bridge rail station.   
 
Appointments not necessary, although advisable if you wish to use microfilm readers.
 
 
 
Disabled access and toilet facilities.  No onsite refreshment facilities – plenty in surrounding area.
 
 
 
One FTF member has commented that they found the building very difficult to locate, rooms very cramped and although the staff tried to help, their knowledge was limited.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Sussex '''
 
 
 
Address: East Sussex Records Office, Lewes
 
 
 
Easiest to get there by train as nowhere to park nearby, be prepared for the steep walk into town.Always book a seat before you go
 
 
 
Be prepared for a long wait if you are ordering up items from the strong room
 
The air conditioning keeps the room cool, so take a cardy/jacket even when it's hot outside
 
There's not too many places to eat nearby mainly pricey coffee bars, so take a packed lunch. There is no where to eat inside the record office itself, although there are benches available outside, which make a nice place to sit and eat when the weather's warm & dry
 
 
 
Toilets are free as well as the lockers.
 
Lewes is a historic town - if you have time visit the castle and if you have time for shopping, take a look at the second hand book shops
 
 
 
 
 
West Sussex Records Office
 
 
 
The collections include records of local government from the sixteenth century, the Diocese of Chichester and its parishes and those of businesses, families, estates, societies and schools.    Also records of West Sussex hospitals, the West Sussex Constabulary and The Royal Sussex Regiment.
 
 
Full access for disabled visitors.  Toilet facilities, lockers available, refreshment area.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Warwickshire '''
 
 
 
Warwickshire County Record Office
 
 
 
Address:  Priory Park, Cape Road, Warwick CV34 4JS
 
Tel: +44 (0) 1926 738959
 
 
Opening hours:  Monday closed.  Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday 09.00 – 17.30 hrs.  Friday 09.00 – 17.00 hrs.  Saturday 09.00 – 12.30 hrs.
 
 
 
Limited on site car parking with dropping off zone and disabled spaces.  Telephone in advance for reservation of disabled parking space.  Wheelchair access.    Pay and display car parking available near by.      No appointment necessary unless you wish to use the GRO indexes.  CARN ticket required.    Free admission.  Volunteers available to provide detailed information on sources and equipment in searchroom.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Westmoreland  '''
 
(Westmoreland is served by the Cumbria Archive Services, Kendal being the principal office)
 
 
 
Kendal Records Office
 
 
 
Address:  County Offices, Strickland Gate, Kendal, Cumbria.
 
 
 
Opening Times:  Monday -. Friday  09.00 – 17.00 hrs.
 
 
 
Limited car parking available, permits available from Reception.  Kendal town centre 5 minutes walk.  Railway station 2 miles from Records Officfe, taxi/buses available.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Wiltshire '''
 
 
 
Wiltshire and Swindon Record Office
 
Address:  Bythesea Road, Trowbridge, Wiltshire
 
 
 
Opening hours:  Monday to Friday 9.15 - 17.00 hrs, Wednesday evening open until 19.45 hrs.
 
 
 
CARN ticket required.  Public areas comprise of three search rooms and a catalogue room where documents may be consulted and staff available to advise.    Prebooking advisable.    Limited parking spaces available at County Hall, two multi-storey car parks nearby.    Toilet and lift facilities.  Access for disabled visitors.  Lockers available for bags and personal belongings.    Refreshment area with drinks machine.
 
 
 
Documents are not produced from the strong rooms between 12.20 . 1.30 hrs, and after 16.30 hrs (19.15 hrs on Wednesday evening)
 
 
 
IMPORTANT:  The office will be closed on 17th April 2007 in preparation for the transfer of the archives to the new Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre in Cocklebury Road, Chippenham.    It is hoped that the new Centre will be open to the publick on 31st October 2007.    There will however, be a reduced service for users of microfiche readers at Trowbridge Reference Library, and although staff will continue to respond to email/postal/telephone queries, no original records will be produced during this period.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
'''Worcestershire '''
 
 
 
 
 
The Worcestershire Record Office has two public branches
 
Enquiries concerning the use of original documents should be referred to the County Hall Branch.
 
Family history enquiries should be referred to the History Centre.
 
 
 
Address:
 
Record Office, County Hall,Spetchley Road,Worcester,WR5 2NP
 
 
 
Worcestershire Library & History Centre
 
Trinity Street,Worcester,WR1 2PW
 
 
 
Opening hours for both
 
 
 
Mon & Fri 9.30am - 7.00pm
 
 
 
Tue-Thur 9.30am - 5.30pm
 
 
 
Saturday          9.30am - 4.00pm
 
 
 
 
 
Book to use the facilities at either branch.Plenty of search room assitants to aid in your searching.
 
The most appropriate branch for family historians to visit is the History Centre.
 
 
 
There is no car park at the History Centre
 
Fully accessible to wheelchair users and includes disabled toilet facilities. There is a rest area with hot and cold drinks available. Bags in the lockers provided. Copying facilities are available.
 
 
 
The History Centre is also a distribution centre for records compiled by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
 
 
 
 
 
'''Yorkshire'''
 
 
 
Address:
 
North Yorkshire County Council: Local studies
 
 
 
Very easy to find but limited parking spaces. Very helpful staff. Free loos. Small coffee room for patrons usage and only a small donation requested.
 
 
 
Usual restrictions regarding paper, pencils etc and change needed for the print offs.
 
  
The East Yorkshire CRO has just moved to the new Treasure House
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Latest revision as of 08:03, 12 September 2022



National Archives

National Archives search your bags. Guildhall & First Avenue House (wills) scan your bags. Lockers at First Avenue House are big enough to take a suitcase, I don't think any of the others are.

The entrance is on the right of the wedge-shaped building.; go up the steps or the ramp to the front door. There is an attendant who will want to check your bag. Best to go down to the basement to start with; here are toilets, refreshment area and cloakroom to leave coat (it gets warm upstairs). You will need a pound coin for a locker. Going back upstairs, walk through past the shop into big room dealing with BMD certificates.

There is an information desk, also the counter where eventually you will fill out coloured request forms and pay for your orders.

The first floor contains three areas of registers; births, marriages and deaths.

The floor above deals with census data; and there are interesting books.

The rooms, particularly the Map Room is huge, stuffy and with a very low ceiling, which personally makes me feel a bit queasy. You have to be very quiet in there and there's a couple of security guys who parade around the room - think school exams.

The register indexes are actually huge books, and heavy! Take down one book at a time and see what you can find. All the books are alphabetical by surname, Just a matter of working round all the other people, and getting through the years you want.


FRC has a sandwich carousel, drinks machines etc but they can run out. TNA has a big cafe/restaurant, but there is also a water cooler & you can take your own sarnies. National Archives. Do not eat or drink anywhere else in the building. The cafe is good and I like the fact that you can use the computer there to see if your documents are ready.


The security folk can be a bit intimidating, and they need to be vigilant may wander where you are working and check your belongings as you move around the building - don't feel intimidated. There's one particular man on the "going up the stairs" security check who is a mite scary! Woe betide you if you have loose papers in your possession! The research staff are all very helpful.


The bookshop is well stocked too.


Also, quick word of advice, look up what you want on A2A and order it online before you go - it's incredibly difficult to find stuff on the NA computers.

There is an information desk, also the counter where eventually you will fill out coloured request forms and pay for your orders. Leave enough time for the payment counter; quite a queue builds up from about 2 o'clock.


Staff have always been very helpful - i.e. printing off census from film.


London Metropolitan Archives

London Metropolitan Archives address is:

40 Northampton Road,

Clerkenwell,

London,

EC1R 0HB


LMA website: LMA Website

For people with disabilties visiting the LMA Disabled Access Services

By Tube: Circle / Metropolitan / Hammersmith & City Line to Farringdon Northern Line to Angel Rail King's Cross / St Pancras (about 1km / 0.7 miles walk) Farringdon Station (about 700 metres / 0.5 miles walk)

Bus Routes 19, 38 and 341 to Rosebery Avenue (alight at Tysoe Street or Mount Pleasant) Routes 63 and 259 to Farringdon Road (alight at Bowling Green Lane) Routes 55, 505 and 243 to Clerkenwell Road (alight at Clerkenwell Green)

Walking LMA is situated within easy walking distance of many other archives and historical institutions

LMA lies within London’s congestion Charge Zone. There are no parking spaces at LMA except for blue / orange badge holders. On street parking is metered.

A veritable treasure house. Impressive library of books on all aspects and areas of London and helpful finding aids for all parish records, electoral rolls etc arranged by London Borough. Staff helpful and lots of microfilm readers. Free water plus snacks machines in locker room. Major drawback is that it is only open alternate Saturdays though it does have late night opening during week.

Seems to be a long walk from any public transport.

Few printers - and they're coin-operated and don't give change. It's worth having small change with you: 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p unless you reckon you'll be doing so much it's worth buying a card.


The General Records Office, Southport

The GRO is not a venue that you can visit and conduct your own search.they do, however have occasional open days when visitors may be shown around the venue.

Quite often The GRO will have a stand at a local history fair, and advertise such events at this show. Its well worth a look if you are lucky enough to be in the area.

The tour is not so much as to help with family history research but more of an insight as the the way the venue is run and how orders for certificates are processed. There may , on these open days, be a chance to attend seminars and learn more about researching family history.


British Library Reading Room, London

Address The British Library,

St Pancras,

96 Euston Road,

London,

NW1 2DB

Trains: St Pancras, King's Cross, King's Cross Thameslink and Euston Underground: King's Cross/St Pancras, Euston and Euston Square

Buses 10, 30, 73 and 91 Parking: No car parking for the public onsite.

Car parks in Marchmont Street under the Brunswick Shopping Centre and NCP in Judd Street.

Metered parking is available on Ossulston Street (6 spaces).

Visitors with disabilities are advised to look at the website for specific advice as to accessiblilty

Covered area for bicycles. There are limited spaces available for coaches, and arrangements can be made in advance by contacting Visitor Services:

Tel: +44 (0)20 7412 7332


Opening times vary according to the day and are best confirmed on the website.

Registration necessary to use the facilities, but this is quick and easy. Go up the escalators and follow the signs for registration.

You fill in a form on computer, are given a queue number and wait to be called by a member of staff who will ask to see a photo ID of some sort -- passport driving licence etc, and proof of address -- bank statement, utility bill etc. there is a full list of possibilities on their web site.

They then take your photo and issue you with a readers card.

You then go down to the cloakroom where there are lockers of various sizes -- up to ones that take a suitcase! All need a one pound coin in the slot. Large see-through plastic bags are provided on a table near the entrance. Each reader is entitled to one for a laptop ( all sound must be switched off) and one for files, notebooks etc. Only pencil allowed, no sharp objects permitted, all restrictions spelled out for you on the plastic bags.

The Reading Room is on the third floor, accessible by the lifts right next to the cloakroom. Show your pass on entry. Lots of stuff on public access, indexes mainly in the form of bound volumes, available to help you know where to look on the shelf. Lots of muster rolls, BMDs etc on micro film, machines plentiful and in reasonable working order.

Items not on the shelves have to be ordered. You fill in a request form on the computer, enter your card no and create a password, then find what you want from the catalogue. This is a bit complicated but the staff are pleased to help out. Requested items take 70 minutes to arrive, so work yourself a schedule out accordingly.

Photo copies available. Check at the copy desk, staff will show you what to do or may insist on doing this for you. Copies can also be ordered for later collection or posting at a price of £1 per large sheet plus postage if applicable. They take credit cards.

Excellent loo on the same floor, quite luxurious!

Cafe available downstairs with hot and cold meals, sandwiches, soft drinks teas and coffees. Maybe wee bit pricey . Plenty of seats outside in the courtyard if the weather is fine, so take a packed meal and eat it in the fresh air.

Be prepared to have your plastic bag carefully searched when you come out. Staff are polite and courteous when doing so, and when you consider what treasures they hold, you can't blame them. Working conditions comfortable.


PRONI

Address: 66 Balmoral Avenue

Belfast BT9 6NY

Northern Ireland

Phone: +44 (028) 9025 5905 (Public Search Room)

Fax: +44 (028) 9025 5999

Email: proni@dcalni.gov.uk

Opening Hours Monday 09:00 am to 4:45 pm Tuesday 09:00 am to 4:45 pm Wednesday 09:00 am to 4:45 pm Thursday 10:00 am to 8:45 pm Friday 09:00 am to 4:45 pm


Occasionally, group visits are facilitated outside normal working hours. Contact Reader Services for details on group visits.

How to get there. By Bus: Use Metro 8 or 9 route; buses leave from Donegal Square East in Belfast City Centre. After alighting at Balmoral Avenue, it's only a short walk to the Public Record Office. By Rail: The Balmoral Railway Station on the Lisburn Road is about 400 to 500 metres away.

For further information on travel in Northern Ireland, whether by CityBus, UlsterBus or by NI Railways, see TransLink NI


By Car: PRONI is three miles south-west of Belfast City Centre by either the Lisburn or the Malone Road. Turn into Balmoral Avenue. If approaching by the M1 Motorway, leave the motorway at Exit 2, A55, direction Balmoral, King's Hall. There are very few car-parking spaces available in PRONI and these are allocated on a 'first come first served' basis although those with diabilities that make walking difficult will usually be accommodated, particularly if we are advised in advance of the visit. Cars may be parked locally, although visitors are reminded that cars cannot park in Balmoral Avenue before 9.30 am and after 4.30 pm.

Restaurant facilities: The PRONI Staff Restaurant is open to visiting members of the public between 10.00 am - 3.40 pm. A range of beverages, snacks and confectionery is served throughout the day with a full lunchtime menu service available from 12 noon to 1.40 pm


GROS

Office Locations

The General Register Office for Scotland (GROS) has three offices, two are located in Edinburgh and one in Dumfries:

New Register House

3 West Register Street

Edinburgh

Scotland

EH1 3YT


New Register House for registration matters and family history research is at the east end of Edinburgh's Princes Street, directly opposite the Balmoral Hotel, a few minutes walk from the main Waverley railway station, the bus station and the airport bus stop. There is no space for car parking or for baggage storage. If informed in advance we can make arrangements for customers with disabilities.

Ladywell House

Ladywell Road

Edinburgh

Scotland

EH12 7TF


Ladywell House for census, population, household and vital statistics data is located in Corstorphine on the west side of Edinburgh. Head west on the A8 from the city centre and turn left at the Drumbrae roundabout. At the second set of traffic-lights turn left into Ladywell Road. Ladywell House is on the left about 75 meters further on. The Edinburgh buildings are normally open to customers between 09:00 and 16:30 hours, Monday to Friday.


Monreith House

The Crichton

Bankend Road

Dumfries

Scotland

DG1 4ZE


Open by appointment


LDS Family History Libraries



Bank of England Archive & Museum


If you find any relatives that worked at the Bank of England, a visit to their archive is highly recommended, and the archivists are so very helpful.

I started off with a father and two sons there, and after my visit, I came away with the father's father, another two sons, 2 son in-laws, and a father-in-law.

You first look at the salary ledgers to give you an 'election' date into the bank, that date allows you to go to what amounts to the Governors 'appraisal books' which give date of birth, family relationships, religion, schooling, past employment, political or club memberships, attributes and weaknesses. They are carried out annually and note promotions and demotions, and the general performance of the employee. Then back to the salary books for date of 'quitting' retirement and death together with the pension value and any purchased investments, and sometimes the will itself.

I became overwhelmed by it all, and have had to make another appointment for a return visit. It is by appointment only, cameras allowed - they will only photocopy 2 or 3 pages. It's a remarkable place.

National Newspaper Archives


Check their website to see if they advise about parking. I've not seen any available spaces. Colindale is within sight of the underground station, so it may be worth finding parking near a station further out. You can eat sandwiches on the premises, but the area isn't overflowing with pleasant little cafés.

The catalogue is online, so you can browse this to decide what is likely to be of use. Bear in mind that the best period for obituaries is probably from the turn of the last century to about 1960. Men are more likely to get obituaries than women, and if you are really lucky you can get a funeral notice as well, with list of mourners, who sent wreaths etc.

Have a look at their online database to see what papers they have and which ones you may want to look at. You can order up to four items online prior to your visit which will be ready and waiting for you when you arrive meaning you can get straight into your research the moment you are there.

Newspapers eat up time but, assuming you already know the date and place of death, your search may not take you very long. If you look at two or three different papers for different areas and periods, you do get a strong feeling of what was important to the readers and a real flavour of the times, even if you don't find anything promoting your research