Research

Need to undertake research, but cannot make a visit to us? We can help.

Some information on what research we can do

What can we do for free?

We can provide details about our records and other sources held at the Royal Berkshire Archives (RBA) as well as how they can be used for research. We can also provide guidance on where to look for records not held at the RBA.

What do we charge for?

If we need to look at records held at the RBA for you we need to charge a fee. Currently we charge £39.00 per hour with a minimum half hour charge of £19.50.

From 1st April 2024 this will be charged at £41.00 per hour with minimum half hour charge of £20.50.

So that we can make effective use of the time you will be paying for, please provide us with as much information as you can. Please email or write to us using the guidance below:

  • Make your requirements as specific as possible
  • State exactly what information you are seeking
  • Give us any relevant details you already have.

We will then assess your enquiry and provide feedback as to how we may be able to help you together with a quote for any research we can do. If you then wish to proceed with the research, payment is required in advance. Please see our Make a Payment page for options on how to pay.

Searches will be carried out either until the time paid for has been used, or until the information requested has been found.

Please be advised that only the most specific of searches (e.g. one entry in a parish register) can be completed within 30 minutes.

Whether you would like us to see what we have or would like us to carry out research on your behalf, please get in touch via our Contact Us page.