Archive access points

Besides the Essex Record Office in Chelmsford, copies of the records we look after can be accessed at our three Archive Access Points in Saffron Walden, Harlow and Southend-on-Sea. Each archive access point has subscription access to Essex Archives Online, providing access to digital images of parish records, original wills, and electoral registers.

Some records are also available in Colchester Libraries local studies area.

Saffron Walden Library

The Saffron Walden Archive Access Point is staffed during the following hours:

• Tuesdays and Fridays: 9am – 1pm, 2pm – 5pm
• Saturdays: 9am – 1pm

Resources can be used on a self-service basis at other times during library opening hours.

Harlow Museum

The Harlow Archive Access Point is located in study room of Harlow Museum. Harlow Museum is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays and Saturdays, 9:30am - 3:30pm. Please contact them in advance to arrange access to the Archive Access Point.

The Forum, Southend-on-Sea

The Southend-on-Sea Archive Access Point is located in the local history section of Southend Library at The Forum. The Forum is open from 8am to 7pm from Monday to Friday, and from 8am to 5pm on Saturday.

Colchester Library

While not one of our access points, the Local Studies Library still holds a wealth of material related to the history of Colchester and Essex. The Local Studies Library is located in the Quiet Zone on the first floor. There is not always a member of staff on duty in the Quiet Zone, so if you know you will need help, or require non-current material, please contact the library before you visit.

Colchester library is closed temporarily for refurbishment, until summer 2025.