The Middle Temple Archive is responsible for the records and archives created by the Inn, and its function is to acquire, preserve and make available those records to the Inn, its members and staff. We aim to provide members of the Middle Temple with a direct and tangible connection with and understanding of the rich and diverse history, heritage and culture of their Inn of Court.

The archive contains a wide range of different types of record from a period spanning over centuries of the Inn’s history. These include records of the governance of the Inn, such as the Minutes of Parliament and a wealth of other committees, financial archives which record in detail the Inn and its members’ transactions and outgoings, records relating to the food and wine consumed by Middle Templars through the ages, material pertaining to the history and development of legal education, and, of course, the records of the Inn’s many thousands of members.

In order to assist members and researchers, many of the key series of records, covering many centuries and spanning a range of subjects, have been digitised and made available online. The Archive also publishes a monthly 'Archive of the Month' article to provide insight into specific themes and topics from Middle Temple history.

Access

Access to the Middle Temple Archive is available, where possible, to members of the public, and the archive staff are happy to answer enquiries made by email (preferred) or post. However, since we are a private archive, resources are limited, and the first priority is to serve the needs of the Inn, its members and its staff.

Owing to these resource limitations, physical constraints and conservation requirements, we aim to provide as much access as possible online. Before contacting us, please consult the Sources & Resources section of the website, which includes research advice, guidance to sources and a range of online resources.

Visits to the archive, where deemed necessary (most enquiries can be answered adequately by email or post), are at the Archivist's discretion and by appointment and prior arrangement only.

Please use the contact details below.

Data Protection & Freedom of Information Statement:  Documents are held in compliance with both the Data Protection and Freedom of Information Acts.