Members of the public can visit Scotland’s national archives at National Records of Scotland (NRS) on 26 September for Edinburgh and East Lothian Doors Open Days.
We’re open to the public throughout the year but on Doors Open Days, visitors can peek behind the scenes and find out more about what NRS does.
Our building General Register House is one of Edinburgh’s most recognisable landmarks and one of the world's oldest working archives. Our records date back as far as the 12th century, touching on virtually every aspect of Scottish life.
Visitors can tour our building, enjoy an introduction to family history research in our Scotland’s People Centre and ask our experts questions about our collections. They can browse and buy guidance books and exciting new Tartan merchandise at our pop-up shop.
It's also the last chance to see our exhibition “For The Safety Of All: Scotland’s Lighthouses”. Our records reveal incredible feats of engineering around Scotland’s beautiful, treacherous coastline. Visitors will also learn about the lives of the men who kept the lights shining.
These records are on display in the spectacular Adam Dome, designed by the renowned architect Robert Adam.
NRS Chief Executive Alison Byrne said:
“General Register House is open to the public throughout the year but we always look forward to Doors Open Day. It’s a great opportunity for first-time visitors to take a look behind the scenes and learn more about our work.
“Last year’s event was great fun for all involved, with over 1,000 visitors. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about Scotland’s history and how you can trace your Scottish ancestry. Come along this year to find out more about what we do.”
General Register House, 2 Princes Street, Edinburgh, will be open from 10 am to 4 pm on 26 September.
Doors Open Days is coordinated by the Scottish Civic Trust.
