| Day | Opening hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 9am to 5pm |
| Thursday | 9am to 5pm |
| Friday | 9am to 5pm |
| Saturday | Open first Saturday of every month only, 9am to 4.30pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
Visiting us
- Home
- Libraries, history and culture
- Dorset History Centre (Archives)
- Visiting the Dorset History Centre
! Warning
The car park at Dorset History Centre is currently unavailable due to ongoing building works. It will reopen in May 2025. We apologise for the inconvenience.
Opening hours
Appointments
There are a few things you need to do before you visit.
If you want to look at original documents, you need to book an appointment. Contact us to book an appointment and pre-order documents.
Appointments are for up-to 3 hours in either the morning or the afternoon. The morning session runs between 9.30am and 12.30pm. The afternoon session runs between 1.30pm and 4.30pm.
Please note that the main searchroom closes for one hour between 12.30pm and 1.30pm for staff lunch. The library and family history computer room remain open during this period.
We also offer group visits for community or educational groups.
Where to find us
Dorset History Centre
Bridport Road
Dorchester
Dorset,
DT1 1RP
Parking
We have limited parking on the paved area at the back of Dorset History Centre. This includes 3 disabled bays.
You can buy a ticket using cash, through the JustPark app, or by calling 07520 634455 and paying by card.
| Time | Charge |
|---|---|
| up to 30 minutes | 50p |
| up to 1 hours | £1 |
| up to 2 hours | £1.50 |
| up to 3 hours | £2.20 |
| up to 4 hours (no return) | £3.50 |
Charges apply Monday to Saturday from 8am to 6pm.
If you are using Dorset History Centre for longer than 4 hours, speak to a member of staff.
Other car parks
The nearest public car park at Top O' Town has both long and short stay parking. Fairfield car park (not available on Wednesdays) is a 10 minute walk from the History Centre. On Saturdays there are plenty of parking spaces available in the car park behind the centre.
See other car parks in Dorchester.
Cycle parking
We have a secure and dry bicycle storage facility at the front of the building. Ask for a key at reception.
Accessibility
All our public rooms at Dorset History Centre, including the search room, are on the ground floor with level access from outside via automatic doors.
There is an accessible toilet at the centre. Hearing loops are fitted at all the enquiry desks.
Find out more about accessibility and how we are making sure everyone can benefit from our services.