The archives, which are held in special storage conditions, date from the 12th century to modern times and come in many different formats including charters, court rolls, deeds parish and non-conformist registers, maps, letters, diaries, accounts, books, wills, photographs and films. They are created by a wide range of organisations, families and estates, parish churches, businesses, societies and individuals.
The records relate primarily to the county of Northamptonshire. However, the records of the diocese of Peterborough covering Northamptonshire, the Soke of Peterborough and Rutland and some of the records relating to other counties are also held. The record office has copies on microfilm and microfiche of records that are not held locally, including census returns for the county.
Making the most of your visit
Whether you are researching your family, local or house history or are working on a school or college project it’s worth visiting us to see the records and resources that we look after.
You don't need to make an appointment to visit, but we are part of the County Archive Research Network. To register with the Research Network you will need to bring personal identification with you. Archives are unique and irreplaceable and we have a role to play in ensuring that tney service for posterity. The Research Network helps us ensure that the records are secure and cared for at all times.
Staff will advise you on the safe handling of archives. You must only use pencil at all times. You must not eat or drink in the office, other than in the refreshment area and smoking is not permitted. Individual security lockers are provided for you convenience, as coats and bags cannot be taken into the research area.
Feel free to contact us before you visit for advice on our collections and the sources that might be of interest to you. Microfilm and microfiche copies of records and reference books are available throughout office opening hours.
Original archives are kept in specialist storage and are brought to you on request at set times throughout the day. However, they are not available on Thursday evenings or Saturday mornings unless they have been ordered in advance.
Orders for documents can be received by post, fax, email or telephone at least 24 hours in advance.
Please ask or consult our website for more details.
If you are unable to visit, or would like more extensive help with detailed searches, we offer a fee-paying research service. The record office will copy records in its care if it is possible to do so without damaging the original.
Copying
Digital copies up to A1 and photocopies up to A3 can be supplied.
We can also copy microfilm and microfiche resources.
Copies of parish registers can be supplied on microfiche.
Details and current charges for these services are available from the office or on our web site.
Please ask for advice about other forms of copying and about permissions in respect of any publication you may be considering.
Surfing at the record office
Free access to the internet is available at the record office, opening other avenues of research and complementing the sources held locally
Talks and Group Visits
We can make arrangements for groups to visit the office. Talks on the work of the record office and on sources for local history can also be given in your community, both during the daytime and the evening. Please allow sufficient notice when suggesting possible dates as the service is subject to availability of staff. A donation is requested towards our fund for the acquisition and preservation of archives.
Services to owners of documents
The record office is pleased to receive archives into its care. Documents may be donated to the office or placed in our custody. In both cases, we undertake to look after the records, to list them and provide access to them. Please contact the county archivist if you would like further advice.
Opening Hours
Monday Closed
Tuesday 9am – 4.45pm
Wednesday 9am – 4.45pm
Thursday 9am – 7.45pm
Friday 9am – 4.15pm
Saturday 9 am – 12.15pm
(Saturdays – Two per month only, usually the 1st and 3rd Saturday in each month but subject to variation. Please check before you plan your visit)
How to Contact Us
Northamptonshire Record Office
Wootton Hall Park
Northampton
NN4 8BQ
Tel: (01604) 762129
Email: archivist@northamptonshire.gov.uk
Web site: www.northamptonshire.gov.uk
