Cambridgeshire Archives holds archives and other information sources relating to the former administrative areas of Cambridgeshire and Isle of Ely (that's the present-day districts of East Cambridgeshire, South Cambridgeshire, Fenland, and the City of Cambridge).
______________________________________
The office also has a library of national and local history publications, to help research.
Our helpful staff are always on hand to offer advice, process document requests and guide you through the lists and indexes to help you find what you are looking for.
How to find us
We are located on the ground floor of Shire Hall, Castle Hill, Cambridge, just inside the main entrance. On arrival, visitors should report to the main reception desk. Appointments are not always necessary but are strongly advised, especially for those wishing to consult maps or use microfilm and fiche.
The office is a member of the County Archive Research Network (CARN) and all users of the search room are required to have a valid CARN readers ticket. 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.).
Our opening times
Tuesday–Thursday: 09.00 – 17.15*
Friday: 09.00 – 16.15
Closed at lunchtimes: 12.45 – 13.45
Closed all day Monday.
* On Tuesdays, the office has extended opening until 21.00 by prior appointment only. Please contact us by 2.00 pm that afternoon to order any records you require for the evening.
A Research Service is available for anyone who is unable to visit in person.
There are currently four Park & Ride sites around Cambridge at Babraham Road, Cowley Road, Madingley Road and Newmarket Road. Bus services run frequently from the railway station to and from the city centre as well as between the city centre and Shire Hall.
Disabled access is available. If possible, please telephone the Record Office in advance of your visit for advice on wheelchair access and parking
There are various pubs serving food close by and a wider range of eating places in the town centre about 10 minutes walk away. Visitors are also welcome to use the facilities at the Bailey Rooms, at the far northern end of the Shire Hall site.
Please note that Cambridgeshire Archives is currently unable to accept deposits or donations of original records. For more information, please follow the link in the right-hand column to "Acquisitions policy."