Neath Antiquarian Society Archives

Where we are and when we are open.

What is available?

The Neath Antiquarian Society Archives is the West Glamorgan Archive Service's branch office in Neath. It is the home of the Neath Antiquarian Society and holds their historic archive collections. There is a searchroom where the original documents can be consulted, and where a member of staff is available for advice.

There are a variety of sources in the searchroom that will help you to research your family history. There are digital copies of local parish registers, and a free internet service to enable you to access online family history websites. There is also a library of books on local history.

Opening hours

Monday 9.30am-12.30pm, 1.30pm-4.45pm (Closed on bank holidays)
Thursday 9.30am-12.30pm, 1.30pm-4.45pm

Prior booking is essential:

Numbers are restricted, so it is necessary to book in advance and to book the first ten documents you want to see in advance too. Further documents can be requested during your visit. To make a booking email us or phone 01792 636589.

You can search our catalogue  online to find the reference numbers of the documents you need. If you are not sure what you need to look at, send us an email to let us know what you want to find out, and we will advise you.

There is a new readers' ticket:

Our old reader's ticket system has come to an end and you will need to apply for a new reader's ticket, the Archives Card. This gives you access to other archive services around the country. You can apply online and collect your ticket when you visit. Register for a reader's ticket.

Social distancing:

Wearing a face covering is no longer mandatory, but if you are able to we advise you to wear one when entering and leaving the building and when talking to members of staff.

Please note that due to the need to maintain social distance, we are not able to offer one-to-one support with using a computer.

Looking for a quick look-up or a copy of a map or document?

For a modest charge, we can help you without the need for a visit. Email us with your query and we will do our best to help you.

Where we are:

Neath Antiquarian Society Archives
Neath Mechanics' Institute
4 Church Place
Neath SA11 3LL
Phone: 01639 620139

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Getting there

The Neath Antiquarian Society Archives is situated in the Neath Mechanics Institute which is in Church Place, opposite St Thomas' Church. The bus station at Victoria Gardens is a couple of minutes walk, whilst the railway station is about 10 minutes away on foot.

Building accessibility

The Neath Mechanics' Institute is a historic building, and there are three steps up to the door with a hand-rail. 
Alternative provision can be made in Neath Civic Centre if a wheelchair user or other person with impaired mobility cannot physically access the building. This service is by advance appointment only, during normal opening hours. 
The resources which can be made available at Neath Civic Centre include documents from the Neath Antiquarian Society collections, and family history and other resources available in the service point. 

Parking

Neath town centre has a multi-storey car park and several street-level car parks, the closest of which is on Water Street. There is no parking outside the building.

Facilities

There is a toilet for use by visitors. 
Neath town centre is close at hand, with a variety of cafes, pubs and restaurants.