History and Heritage

Archives and Library

Planning your Visit

The Library and Archives are situated in the Cathedral Precincts. Please come to the main Cathedral gate (Christ Church Gate), and ask for directions there, and a map. Researchers do not have to pay for admission to the Precincts.

It is advisable to reserve a place in our searchroom (run jointly with the Cathedral Library) Classes and group visits can be arranged, usually for Fridays. Please contact us for details.

Opening Times  
Monday - Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday

Closed (except for special classes and

group tours)
Saturday
(1st and 3rd in the month)		 9am - 1pm

Regular closures include all Public Holidays, and Cathedral Schools

Day (usually the 2nd Tuesday in November). In addition we are

closed in January (usually the second fortnight) for stocktaking.
Access
  • Parking for disabled readers (advance notice and vehicle details required)
  • Lift available to first floor searchroom
  • Across-desk loop system
  • TV scanner for the visually impaired
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilets are available in the Cathedral Precincts

Researchers using the Archives should have a County Archive Research Network (CARN) ticket. To obtain a CARN ticket please bring with you two passport sized photographs and some proof of identity (such as a driving licence) showing your name, address and signature. If you already have a CARN ticket issued by another office, you can use that here.

Contact Details

Canterbury Cathedral Archives and Library
The Precincts
Canterbury
Kent, CT1 2EH
Tel: +44 (0)1227 865330
Textphone: +44 (0)1622 605249
Fax: +44 (0)1227 865222 (specify "Archives")
Email: archives@canterbury-cathedral.org