Using the Archive
Anyone can visit the Bank of England Archive by appointment, as long as they are doing genuine research.
We recommend that you consult our online catalogue before you visit and let us know what records you would like to see. The catalogue contains descriptions of records, rather than the records themselves.
Online catalogue
If you cannot find what you are looking for, you are welcome to contact us with a brief summary of your research and we will be happy to advise you. In the case of genealogical enquiries, we can usually check a small amount of salary ledgers or customer account or stock indexes.
Making an appointment
The Archive is open by appointment only. We are open Monday to Thursday between April and October. We are open Tuesday to Thursday between November and March. Our opening hours are 10am to 4.30pm.
Appointments must be booked at least one working day ahead, via email or phone. We advise you to book well in advance and before making travel arrangements, as demand is high throughout the year and we cannot guarantee space will be available at short notice.
Each individual visitor requires an appointment, and appointments are for the named person only. If you are planning to visit with a colleague, friend or relative, each person will require a separate appointment. If you are unable to visit in person, you are welcome to send someone on your behalf.
ID requirements
Every visitor must provide, before their first visit, two separate forms of proof of identity, one showing a photograph (for example a passport, national identity card or driving licence) the other showing your address (for example a utility bill or bank statement).
During your visit
On arrival, researchers must complete a user registration form agreeing to the Bank’s conditions of access.
Wi-Fi is available in the building.
The search room is open at lunchtime, though no files can be ordered between 12.30pm and 1.30pm. There is a seating area available, where visitors can eat their lunch. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own reusable bottles and cups, which they can refill at our water dispenser.
Self-service photography
We are unable to provide copies of documents, but researchers are welcome to use their own cameras or other devices to make copies for private or non-commercial research. Please bring your own camera as we are unable to lend you one. Stands for cameras are available. Cameras may only be used in designated areas, and after you have completed the appropriate copyright agreement.
Please make sure that you are happy with the quality of your images before you leave the search room, as we are unable to retake photographs on your behalf.
Access to records