Derbyshire Record Office

Derbyshire Record Office collects and preserves resources relating to the County of Derbyshire in order to safeguard them for future generations. 

These resources cover more than four miles and are accessible free of charge.  

Derbyshire Record Office provides the Archive Service for Derbyshire, Derby City and the Diocese of Derby.  

Professionally trained Archivists care for all the documents in the Archive, which include documents, manuscripts, maps and photographs.

Documents come from many different sources, such as individuals, families and/or organisations, so will be useful whatever your research interest, whether you are researching the history of a house, conducting research for a school, college or school project, studying family history or have an interest in local history.  

Resources held include census returns, parish registers, wills and testaments and quarter sessions records.

Their friendly and helpful staff are always on hand to offer advice should you have any questions or require assistance.

Information about Derbyshire Record Office

Collections

For information regarding their collections, please peruse their online catalogue.

Opening Hours

Opening Hours can be found by going to the appropriate section of their Visiting Us page. 

Location and Directions

Derbyshire Record Office has a car park, which includes three disabled spaces.

Advance Booking

If you wish to consult census returns, GRO Indexes, newspapers or parish registers on computer or microfilm, booking a reader’s space in advance of your visit is crucial.  You do not need to book a reader’s space if you would like to consult books or archive materials.  

It is also possible to pre-order three items you wish to consult before you arrive.

Photography and Photocopying

It is possible to use a camera to take photographs of documents but there are restrictions on what documents you can photograph because of Copyright Law.  

Taking photographs of some documents is not permitted because they are fragile and can be damaged easily.  You have to purchase a photography licence before you can take photographs of documents.

You are allowed to make your own paper copies from microfilm and microfiche, but the Office makes a charge to people using this service.

Computers and Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building.

The Office’s computers provide internet access.

You are welcome to use your own laptop in the Office, and power points are provided.  

Accessibility

The building is fully accessible, with a ramp providing access to the building, and lifts available once inside.  The building is completely suitable for wheelchairs.  

If you are disabled, and wish to consult records on microfilm, the Office asks that you inform them in advance of your visit so they can give you a machine with easy access.

Refreshments

A break room is available in the Office, where you are free to eat your own food.  A drinks machine is also accessible.

Research Service

If you cannot visit in person, they offer a research service. They also provide a list of Record Agents, who, for a fee, can conduct research on your behalf.

Readers’ Tickets

Derbyshire Record Office accepts the Archives Card.  If you wish to use their computers, you are required to show your Derbyshire Library Card, which you can register for if you do not already have it.  You have to show ID showing your name and address to register for a card. 

When you arrive at the Office, you will be asked to sign the visitors book.