We use cookies to make the site simpler. Find out more about cookies
... a thousand years, a million stories
Dorset History Centre is the archives service and local studies library for Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole. We house Dorset's local archives - from council records to personal collections.
See our opening times, how to get to us and what to expect when you visit.
Descriptions of records we hold on the history of people and places in Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole.
Information about our enquiry, research and copying services plus tips for your research.
We care for and provide access to thousands of archive collections.
Our conservation and preservation activities ensure the longevity of the collections.
Deposit records, volunteer with us or find support for your project.
Resource packs and information on the records we hold related to curriculum topics.
Hire our well equipped, ground floor lecture room for your meeting or event.
We are dedicated to preserving, sharing and celebrating the rich heritage of Dorset.
🚨 NOTICE TO ALL VISITORS 🚨 (update) DHC will be undergoing some renovations works throughout November. As such, t… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…
Dorset History Centre is open 9am to 5pm Tuesday to Friday and 9am to 4:30pm on the first and third Saturday of each month.
Email: archives@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk Full contact details for Dorset History Centre
This form is to report content that is wrong, or any issues or feedback you have about the web page.
Contact us if you want to get in touch about a council service instead.
All fields are required.
Leave your email address so that we can provide a response.
This helps us direct your feedback to the appropriate council.
An error has occurred. Please check the form details and try again.