Front entrance of the London Archives building at 40 Northampton Road, Clerkenwell, London EC1

London Metropolitan Archives

London Archives Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The London Archives, formerly the London Metropolitan Archives (LMA), is the United Kingdom’s leading centre for the preservation and exploration of London’s documentary heritage. Since its establishment in 1965, it has brought together records from the London County Council and Middlesex County Council, forming a repository that traces the city’s story from 1067 to the present day. This vast collection includes manuscripts, maps, photographs, films, and official documents that illuminate the evolution of London’s communities, governance, and built environment.

Managed by the City of London Corporation, The London Archives is committed to public engagement, offering exhibitions, talks, and educational programmes. Following its rebranding in August 2024, the Archives now emphasise digital innovation, wider accessibility, and a renewed focus on serving Londoners and global visitors alike. Whether you’re researching your family tree, delving into academic studies, or simply curious about the capital’s past, this guide provides everything you need to plan a visit—including hours, ticketing, exhibitions, facilities, and nearby attractions.

For the latest updates, visit the official London Archives website and consult FamilySearch’s guide for additional research resources.

Introduction
Origins and Evolution of The London Archives
Institutional Significance
Recent Developments and Rebranding
Notable Exhibitions and Public Programmes
Collection Highlights and Research Facilities
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Travel Tips
Accessibility and Visitor Facilities
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visual and Interactive Resources
Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations
References

Repository block of the London Archives building on Northampton Road, Clerkenwell, London EC1

Front entrance and main building of the London Archives at 40 Northampton Road in Clerkenwell, London EC1

Origins and Evolution of The London Archives

Founded in 1965, The London Archives unified the collections of the London County Council and Middlesex County Council, creating an unparalleled record of the city’s development across nearly a millennium. Its collections span parish registers, census data, wills, and unique material documenting London’s diverse communities, architecture, and social changes. The archive’s holdings reflect the daily life, governance, and transformation of London from medieval times to today, serving historians, genealogists, and the general public.

Institutional Significance

As a major public resource, The London Archives preserves the administrative memory of the capital while actively supporting research, learning, and cultural engagement. Its free, open-access policy ensures that anyone can explore London’s historical records. The institution’s outreach includes public exhibitions, lectures, community programmes, and partnerships with local schools and organisations, fostering a broad understanding of London’s heritage (City of London Corporation).

Recent Developments and Rebranding

The rebranding to The London Archives in August 2024 signals an expanded mission: enhancing digital accessibility, advancing innovative exhibitions, and serving a more diverse audience. Improvements include a revamped online catalogue, digitised records for remote access, and new participatory programmes. The commitment to free access and inclusivity remains central, welcoming both local and international visitors (The London Archives Official Website).

Notable Exhibitions and Public Programmes

Current and Upcoming Exhibitions

London in the Second World War (24 February – 30 October 2025):
This exhibition features London County Council bomb damage maps, photographs by police photographers Cross and Tibbs, personal diaries, and oral histories. It highlights the impact of wartime and the city’s postwar reconstruction efforts.
Book free tickets
Lost Victorian City (13 May 2024 – 5 February 2025):
Explore rare photographs and documents depicting the dramatic transformation of Victorian London, with images of vanished landmarks and street scenes.
More information

Public Programmes and Learning

Talks and Lectures: Covering London’s architecture, social history, and more.
Workshops: On archival research, family history, and document care.
Community Initiatives: Collaborations with schools and local groups, including interactive programmes for Key Stage 2 and above (School programmes).
Youth Volunteering: Launching 2026, engaging young people in archival work.

Collection Highlights and Research Facilities

Key Holdings:
- William the Conqueror’s Charter (c.1067)
- Magna Carta (1297)
- Shakespeare’s Blackfriars Deed (1613)
- Victorian photographs and bomb damage maps
- Oral histories, including the HIV/AIDS crisis
Research Support:
- Expert archivists and librarians on hand for guidance
- Digitised collections and self-service facilities
- Access to the Guildhall Library Service for over 200,000 books on London’s history (Explore collections)
Facilities:
- Reading rooms, microfiche readers, computers, and mediatheque stations
- Free Wi-Fi
- Lockers and storage for personal items

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Travel Tips

Location: 40 Northampton Road, Clerkenwell, London EC1R 0HB
Opening Hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- One Saturday per month (check official website for dates)
- Closed Fridays, Sundays, and bank holidays
Entry and Tickets:
- Admission to exhibitions and public areas is free
- Some workshops or tours may require advance booking or a fee
- To access original documents, register for a free History Card onsite with valid photo ID
Directions:
- By Tube: Farringdon and Angel stations (10–15 min walk)
- By Bus: Routes 55, 243, 214, and others stop nearby
- By Train: Farringdon station (National Rail and Thameslink)
- Travel information
Cycling and Parking:
- Bike racks and lockers available; car parking is limited, so public transport is recommended
- Accessibility Guide

Accessibility and Visitor Facilities

Accessibility:
- Step-free entry, lifts, accessible toilets, induction hearing loops
- Guide dogs welcome; staff assistance available on request
- Accessibility guide
Amenities:
- Visitors Lounge with lockers and information points
- No on-site café; food allowed in lounge area
- Numerous local cafés and restaurants in Clerkenwell (Local Area Guide)
General Tips:
- Bring valid ID for History Card registration
- Use pencils (not pens) for note-taking
- Large bags and coats must be stored in lockers
- Photography of documents permitted with staff permission; daily license may apply

Nearby Attractions

Museum of London
Smithfield Market
Barbican Centre
British Museum
Clerkenwell Green

All are easily accessible by public transport and can be visited on the same day for a broader historical experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the London Archives’ visiting hours?
A: Monday–Thursday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm; one Saturday monthly. Closed Fridays, Sundays, and bank holidays.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, entry to exhibitions and public areas is free. Some events or tours may require a ticket.

Q: Do I need a History Card?
A: Only if you wish to access original archival materials. Register for free onsite with valid photo ID.

Q: Is the building accessible for those with disabilities?
A: Yes, with step-free access, lifts, accessible toilets, and staff support.

Q: Can I park on site?
A: Limited parking; public transport is recommended. Accessibility parking details are online.

Q: Are children welcome?
A: Yes, and family-friendly workshops and events are regularly scheduled.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, during special events or by advance booking for groups.

Visual and Interactive Resources

Virtual tours and interactive maps available via the official website
London Picture Archive: over 250,000 digitised images and films (London Picture Archive)
Curated digital displays and the Mediatheque on-site

Suggested image alt-texts:

Exterior of The London Archives building in Clerkenwell, London, showing main entrance
Display case with William the Conqueror’s Charter
Photograph of Shakespeare’s Blackfriars Deed
Victorian-era street scene in London
Map of The London Archives’ location and transport links

Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations

The London Archives stands as a vital gateway to London’s history, offering free public access, modern research facilities, and a diverse programme of exhibitions and events. Its central location, expert staff, and commitment to accessibility make it an essential destination for anyone interested in the city’s past. Explore rare documents, participate in engaging programmes, and discover the stories that have shaped London over centuries. Plan your visit today by checking current hours and exhibitions on the official website, and enhance your experience with the Audiala app for curated tours and updates. Immerse yourself in the archives and uncover the narratives that define one of the world’s greatest cities.