Suffolk Archives
With a National Art Pass you get
Discover Suffolk’s rich history through documents, exhibitions, learning activities and a welcoming community hub at Suffolk Archives in Ipswich.
Unrivalled historical sources
With over 900 years of material, Suffolk Archives in Ipswich cares for parish registers, maps, photographs, newspapers and personal papers. The collections trace every aspect of the county’s past, from medieval charters to contemporary oral histories. Whether researching family genealogy, local buildings or broader social history, visitors can find fascinating documents. Archivists and volunteers help guide enquiries, ensuring the material is accessible to specialists and beginners alike.
Rooted in the community
The flagship centre, The Hold in Ipswich, opened in 2021 in partnership with the University of Suffolk. Light-filled and accessible, it houses public exhibition galleries, study spaces and classrooms. Branch sites in Bury St Edmunds and Lowestoft extend access countywide, keeping the service rooted in communities.
Family-friendly activities
Talks, workshops, school programmes and family-friendly exhibitions bring history to life. Creative projects and collaborations encourage people to see archives as inspiring and relevant.
Why you should go
Over 900 years of historic records
Accessible and open to all
Talks, workshops and family-friendly events
Visitor information
Address
The Hold, 131 Fore Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP4 1LR
01473 264520
Opening times
Monday - Saturday 10am-5pm (exhibitions)
Tuesday - Saturday 10am-4.30pm (archives)
