Overview
Step inside the HES Archives and Library in Edinburgh and explore Scotland's past through over two million historic photographs, drawings and more.
Our extensive archive in Edinburgh spans a whole range of buildings, archaeological monuments and industrial and maritime sites, giving unparalleled insight into Scotland’s stories.
What to see and do
- View architects’ drawings, historic photographs and excavation archives
- Discover information about Scotland's places through documents and books
- Trace our changing landscape through photographs and fieldwork records
- Browse the library collections, searchable through the Library Catalogue
- Access online resources such as Canmore and Scran at dedicated search terminals
- Speak to expert staff about your research questions or for support searching the collections
Group visits and information sessions
Our archives offer visits free of charge for community, educational and professional groups. These include an overview of how we care for the archive, how it can be used and a display of archival material for attendees to browse.
We can also provide information sessions (online and in person) to community groups, local libraries, specialist networks and educational settings. These introduce the archive collections and demonstrate how to use our online resources to learn more about your local area.
Please email archives@hes.scot to enquire about availability.
Unable to visit in person?
If you are unable to visit us in person, our enquiries and digitisation services are available to help you access the collections.
Enquiries can be made by email, and staff will search the archives on your behalf. Please note staff cannot carry out research on your behalf.
Digitisation and licensing requests can be made through each of our online webservices or by emailing archives@hes.scot.
Online talks
Our Archives Talks are hosted quarterly, and advertised through the our What’s On page. Talks are recorded and available to view on YouTube.
