Bristol Archives

We look after the archives of the city of Bristol and surrounding areas, as well as the British Empire & Commonwealth Collection. We make them available to everybody, free of charge.


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Visitor information

You don’t need to book an appointment to visit our searchroom. But if you do, we’ll have your first two documents waiting for you when you arrive.

The searchroom is open on Tuesdays to Fridays, 9.30am – 4.30pm and on Saturday 12 April, 10am – 4pm. Our opening hours will be changing. Further details will be issued in due course – please see our opening times for updates.

Please do not visit if you feel unwell or have COVID-19 symptoms. Please respect the staff and visitors who choose to wear face coverings.

What’s here at Bristol Archives

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Opening times for 2025

4 February 2025 — 30 April 2025

Monday
Closed
Tuesday
9.30am–4.30pm
Wednesday
9.30am–4.30pm
Thursday
9.30am–4.30pm
Friday
9.30am–4.30pm
Saturday
Open 10am - 4pm on Saturday 12 April
Sunday
Closed