HES Archives and Library

  • John Sinclair House, 16 Bernard Terrace, Edinburgh EH8 9NX

  • 0131 651 6872
 

Visiting us

We're always happy to welcome visitors into the archive. Whether you're new to exploring archives or a seasoned researcher, our friendly team is on hand to help you on your visit.

On arrival, you will be asked to sign in to the building, and directed to the lockers provided. Bags, coats, food and drink must be left in the lockers but you may bring the following in to the search room and library:

  • Pencil, notebook
  • Laptop, tablet
  • Camera, smartphone

Find out more about what to expect on your visit, read our FAQs

Please watch our informational video for visitors to the Archive Search Room:

Archive collections

If you'd like to view original historic photographs, drawings and manuscripts, search Canmore - the online catalogue of the HES Archives - to find the items that you would like to see in person.

When you book to visit, you can request up to ten items to view on your visit. We'll contact you to confirm that they will be available for you on your arrival.

You will be asked to provide photographic identification and proof of address on arrival. Please get in contact with us if you do not have appropriate identification

To request books and journals, search online and let us know what you want to consult.

Photography

If you would like to take photographs during your visit, please speak to the member of staff on duty in the search room. Many of our collections can be photographed, however some may have restrictions in place due to copyright or data protection legislation.

Read our FAQs

Opening times

Tues to Fri: 10am to 4pm, advance booking required.

Sat to Mon: Closed

Facilities

Download our visitor app

Discover more on the go – the Historic Scotland app lets you find out about Scotland’s most iconic places wherever you are.

Plan your visit

More than 20 of our sites are now open. Please book your tickets in advance.

Become a member

Join Historic Scotland to visit our properties free of charge for a full year and support our work at the same time.

Hire a site for filming

Use one of our fantastic locations on your next shoot for an awe-inspiring backdrop to your work.

Learning visits

Our 300+ historic places serve as creative inspiration for all sorts of learning activities – and for learners of all ages.

Search our events

See the past brought to life by the imaginative year-round programme of events at our properties.