The National Archives

Explore 1,000 years of history

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Exhibition

Revolution 250: America's Independence Story 1763–1783

Three visitors observe historical documents in glass display cases within a modern museum gallery featuring red wall panels.

To mark the 250th anniversary of The US Declaration of Independence, our powerful new free exhibition charts the emergence of the United States of America.

News

Latest release of files from MI5

A blurred, moving figure can be seen holding an archive box in the aisle between two rows of archive shelving.

Today, we have made available a selection of previously top secret files from MI5. The files in this release cover a range of events and individuals dating from 1933 to 1975.

Collection blog

A file release from MI5

A photograph of a man and a woman walking down a London street. They are both wearing overcoats and a hat. They are unaware that they are being photographed.

Over 100 Security Service (MI5) files have been released at The National Archives covering a wide range of subjects and individuals.

Talk

Witch hunts and real lives

A black and white etching of a devil, a group of witches, and dragons flying in the sky.

Discover a spellbinding history of witchcraft and witch hunts.

Booking a visit to view original documents

A visitor holds two boxes of records and a volume to a member of staff at the Document Reading Room returns desk.

Find out how you can book in advance to view original documents in our reading rooms.

Explore the collection

Bundles of papers and parchment records tightly packed together.

Choose a topic or time period and start exploring some of our most important and unusual records.

On the Record Podcast

A black and white photo of people celebrating. Text reads, 'on the record'

The National Archives presents On the Record, a podcast that unearths the real life stories found in our vast collections.

Our research & academic collaboration

Learn about our work as an Independent Research Organisation.

Archives sector

Get help to develop your collections and archives services.

Education

View award-winning resources for students and teachers.

Information management

Access best practice in records management and transfer, and information re-use.