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.


Visit our online catalogue

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.

Until Friday 27 June 2025, the searchroom is open on Tuesdays to Fridays, 9.30am – 4.30pm. From the week commencing Monday 30 June 2025, our new searchroom opening hours will be Tuesdays to Thursdays, 9.30am – 4.30pm. 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

View all displays

Opening times for spring 2025

4 February 2025 — 29 June 2025

Monday
Closed
Tuesday
9.30am–4.30pm
Wednesday
9.30am–4.30pm
Thursday
9.30am–4.30pm
Friday
9.30am–4.30pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed