Local history

Explore amazing archives, images and library books at Tower Hamlets Local History Library and Archives. The collections include historic documents from 1384, maps, plans, photographs and newspaper cuttings.

Discover

• your family history and explore research tips in our user guides
• the history of your building and street
• the history of changing communities in Tower Hamlets
• research themes for community heritage groups and students
• the history of London’s world famous East End

You can also

• attend events and exhibitions
• develop your own heritage project
• add your own material to the collections.

The council also keeps a record of all births, marriages and deaths that have taken place in the borough since 1837. Order a certificate from Tower Hamlets Register Office.