Visit Lambeth Archives
Lambeth Archives is the borough's record office and local history library. It is open to the public, free of charge.
Whether you want to trace your family history, a house history, discover the origins of your neighbourhood or look at the records of Lambeth Council, staff will guide you through our collections of historical material and and assist you.
The Lambeth Archive is located in the Minet Library.
Services
To use the archives, you do not need a ticket or library card.
- Free research facilities, including internet access and microfilm readers
- Advice and guidance from our staff.
- A paid search service if you are unable to visit us - please use the printable search service request form to request this.
- Services for schools and colleges.
- Exhibitions, talks and events.
- Guide to Lambeth Archives - a guide to our documents and records.
- Local history publications for sale.
- Postcards for sale.
- Copying services.
Collections and holdings
See our collections and holdings page to find out about the local and family history resources you can access.
Visiting the Archives
Opening hours
Our public search room is open at the following times:
- Monday: 1pm - 8pm
- Tuesday: 10am - 6pm
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 10am - 6pm
- Friday: 10am - 1pm
- Saturday: 9am - 5pm
- Sunday: Closed
Adress and contact details
Lambeth Archives
Minet Library
52 Knatchbull Road
London SE5 9QY
Phone: 020 7926 6076
Fax: 020 7926 6080
Email: archives@lambeth.gov.uk
Local transport
Tube: Brixton
Rail: Loughborough Junction
Buses: 3, 59, 133, 159, 333, P5
See a location map for Minet Library
Access for people with disabilities
The Minet Library and the Archives are on one level, and there is wheelchair access to the building and a disabled toilet. Registered assistance dogs welcome.
We strongly recommend that disabled users contact us in advance of visiting (particularly for a first visit).
Refreshments
There are no refreshment facilities at the Archives, so you are advised to bring your own. Food and drink cannot be consumed on the premises but you can sit and eat in the nearby Myatt's Field park.
Lockers and coat racks
Coats and bags must go in the lockers provided.
Telephones and computers
Mobile phones must not be used in the reading room. You are welcome to bring personal computers - we have a limited number of power points available.
Camera use
Cameras can be used to take photographs of documents - there is a flat fee of £2. You must seek permission from staff first, make a list of everything you photograph and sign to say your photographs are for personal use only.
Useful websites