Terms of use

Welcome to The National Archives. Please help us safeguard our records by following our visitor regulations. These regulations are also available to view at the welcome desk and from our Enquiry Service Manager.

Policy on fair and reasonable use of website and catalogue data

The terms of use for accessing our website and catalogue data, including automated use, to ensure that they remain safe, secure, and available to everyone.

Digital community guidelines

To ensure a positive experience for all, users must follow these guidelines when engaging with us online.

Privacy notice

Information about how The National Archives handles personal information.

Copyright

The material featured on this website is subject to Crown copyright protection and licensed for use under the Open Government Licence unless otherwise indicated.

Takedown and reclosure policy

A policy setting out when we will remove material from websites or reclose previously open records

Record copying

Terms of use for ordering copies of documents.

Booking events and visits

Terms of use for booking events at The National Archives.

User participation

Terms of use and participation guidelines for user contributions on our website.

Our fees

Find out about the prices we charge for our public services, including research and record copying.

Information we collect online

When you visit this website, we collect website usage information and information about your computer and internet connection, including your computer's IP address, the type and version of browser (such Internet Explorer 7 or Firefox 3.

Cookies

Information about how and why we use cookies on our website.

Policy on fair and reasonable use of the Ministry of Defence access service

Background On 1 December 2025, The National Archives announced the introduction of a new service for access to historical Ministry of Defence Service Personnel records, which will be launched in February 2026.