Bradford Archive Service was founded in 1974 as an Archive Department set up by the City of Bradford Metropolitan Council and was accessible in Bradford Central Library.
The Service became part of the West Yorkshire Archive Service in 1982, and is now housed in Margaret McMillan Tower, Prince’s Way, Bradford, BD1 1NN.
The Archive Service collects and preserves resources relating to the culture, history and heritage of the region.
These archives include books and journals, diaries, documents, letters, manuscripts, maps and plans, newspapers and photographs.
Whether you are researching your family history, conducting research for a school, college or university assignment, studying the history of your local area or are researching the history of your house, you will find the documents held of use.
The knowledgeable and helpful staff are always on hand to help should you have any questions on require assistance.
Information about Bradford Archive Service
West Yorkshire Archive Service
Bradford Archive Service
Margaret McMillan Tower
Prince’s Way
Bradford
BD1 1NN
Telephone Number:
0113 3939785
Email:
bradford@wyjs.org.uk
Collections
For details regarding their opening hours and collections, please visit their Home Page and peruse their online catalogue. Collections held by the Office include:
- Church Records
- Family and Estate Records
- Local Authority Records
- Hospital and Health Records
- Manufacturing Business Records
- Trade Union Records
Location and Directions
Bradford Archives is based in Bradford Central Library, the entrance being on the side of Margaret McMillan Tower.
Parking is available at Hall Ings and the Library Car Park. Disabled parking is accessible next to the Library in Sharpe Street.
The Archive is situated close to Bradford Interchange Railway Station and Bradford Interchange Bus and Coach Station.
Making an Appointment
Making an appointment is advisable in Bradford Archives because some records are held off-site and the search-room might be unexpectedly closed because of staffing difficulties.
The staff will be able to advise you at time of booking whether you need to reserve a table, computer or microfiche reader, depending on the resources you want to consult. You have to book in advance if you wish to consult original archive material.
Cold Weather
In cold weather, you are advised to bring a jumper or cardigan with you because the search room can become very cold.
Facilities
No refreshment facilities are available, but cafes are located a short walk from the Archive.
Accessibility
The building is fully accessible to people in wheelchairs.
Research Service
If you are unable to visit in person, they offer a research service.
For further information regarding other Record Offices in Yorkshire, please visit my pages relating to Barnsley Archives, Calderdale Archives, Doncaster Archives, Kirklees Archives, Leeds Archives, Sheffield Archives and Wakefield Archives.