The Record Office houses the Quarter sessions and Magistrates Courts’ records from Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland as well as the records of the Police of both Leicestershire and Rutland counties and the Borough of Leicester. We also have records of several historic gaols as well as part of the current Leicester Prison archive.
Details of opening for public access and / or research services Monday, Tuesday and Thursday: 9:15 – 12.30; 13.30 – 17:00
Wednesday: 9:15 – 12:30; 13.30 – 19.30 (18.00 in December and January)
Friday: CLOSED
Saturday: 9:15 – 12:15
Sunday: CLOSED
The Record Office is closed on the Saturday of Bank Holiday weekends.
Accessibility and disability arrangements / Covid requirements Mobility
This is a wheelchair friendly site with a ramp leading from the street up to the main entrance. The inner door is automatic through to the reception, refreshment area and public toilets. All public areas are on the ground floor.
There is an accessible toilet with sliding door near the reception area with a pull-switch alarm for visitors to activate should the assistance of reception staff be needed within the toilet.
All tables are suitable for most standard wheelchairs. There is space at the searchroom tables for a companion to assist.
Most catalogues and indexes are at a medium or low level. Some shelves, especially for library books, are up to 1.8 metres high and others are at floor level. Please ask staff for assistance if necessary.
Most of our chairs are adjustable and on castors. We recognise these are not suitable for all visitors and an alternative can be easily provided.
Visual
We have two specialist film/fiche reader machines and a high magnification reader for physical records.
Hearing
An induction hearing loop is fitted at both the reception and searchroom counters. Staff have been trained to be responsive to those with hearing problems.
Learning Difficulties
We recognise that the Record Office can be very confusing and using original documents can be difficult. Staff are happy to explain how to use the records but cannot devote a huge amount of time to individual visitors. Please contact us about particular needs and we will try to ensure someone can be available to assist.
Assistance Dogs
Assistance dogs are always welcome, although we cannot accommodate other dogs or animals in the public rooms.
Breastfeeding
We are happy to welcome people who are breastfeeding and can make a private space available if required. Nappy changing facilities are also available.
Visiting with Children
Children are welcome in all the public areas including the searchrooms. Younger children can get bored so please bring books or toys to entertain them.
We aim to be accessible to all visitors. If you have a particular requirement or we can help to make your visit more comfortable, please contact us using the details below.
