National Records of Scotland

National Records of Scotland collects, preserves and produces information about Scotland’s people and history and makes it available to inform current and future generations. Our records span from the 12th to the 21st centuries, touching on virtually every aspect of Scottish life. We hold and facilitate access to one of the most varied archive collections of records in Britain.

Our collections are held in four buildings in Edinburgh, two of which, Robert Adam’s Neoclassical General Register House and Robert Mathieson’s Italianate New Register House, are listed buildings and outstanding examples of 18th and 19th century architecture. Adam’s elegant General Register House is one of the oldest purpose-built archive buildings still in use in the world.

Since we’re unable to welcome you into our buildings in person this year, we hope we can connect with you on social media while you:

• Enjoy a “virtual visit” below as we take you on a short filmed tour behind the scenes in National Records of Scotland’s New Register House.
• Explore our specially curated digital exhibition on the theme of ‘Edinburgh’s Remarkable Features’.
• Read our blog Open Book about our participation and virtual offering this year.
• View a digital 3D fly-through animation of General Register House from the present day back to the 18th century.
• Watch “Opening the Doors to Edinburgh’s New Town’s Past” a special Doors Open Days talk from Dr Anthony Lewis.