We are open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4pm. On weekdays the office closes 12:30pm to 1:30pm to allow for public areas to be cleaned. There is no public access to the building during this time.
In 2020 we are also open on the following Saturdays 10am to 1pm:
- 26 September
- 31 October
- 28 November
- 19 December
Local studies, including the computer, book and microfilm rooms, will remain closed.
Making an appointment
We're operating an appointment only system for visiting the Record Office and all archives and local studies material must be pre-booked. Please contact us to discuss the availability of reader's spaces and the items you to consult, providing reference numbers if you know them. Bookings must be made at least one week in advance. We're currently booked up to about 3 weeks ahead due to limited spaces to ensure social distancing and the security of the collections.
Items must be pre-booked at the time you reserve a reader's space – no bookings will be made until a list of items to be consulted is provided. Use our research guides and search the online catalogue to find out what is available or contact us for advice.
Unfortunately, we can't guarantee every item will be available as all material will be quarantined after use and no items will be retrieved or exchanged on the day.
If you prefer not to visit, our copying and research service is operating as usual.
Before you visit
If you do not already have an Archives Card, please register for one online in advance of your visit.
We'll not be issuing new cards at present, so you'll not need to provide ID, but by registering we'll be able to log your visit in case of contact tracing. See our privacy notice for more information.
If you feel unwell on the day of your visit, please call us to rearrange your appointment.
When you arrive
Please wait outside to be called into reception. For your safety, only one visitor at a time will be permitted in the reception area.
If you are able to, you will be required to wear your own face covering during your visit.
You will be assigned a ground floor locker for your coat and bags, and you should wash your hands before consulting the material.
You'll also need to bring your own pencils and paper to take notes as these cannot be provided. Pens are not permitted.
You can use your own device to take photographs of material in the collections.
Computer access
There are 2 public computers available which must be booked in advance. One to one assistance with computers is not available at present.
If possible, we recommend that you bring your own laptop or tablet and use our free wifi to access the internet, including the Record Office online catalogue
Facilities and access
An accessible toilet is available.
There are no tea and coffee making facilities.
We have a small car park is on site which includes 3 disabled spaces.
We're currently unable to take any cash payments. Please pay using a contactless card whenever possible.
Postal address
Derbyshire Record Office
County Hall
Matlock
DE4 3AG