Local History

Information on how to contact the Local History Library & Archives, our location, andFind opening hours.

Our current exhibition Next Stop – 900 Years of Public Transport in Tower Hamlets, explores the fascinating history of public transport in the East End over nine centuries. It spans the construction of the Bow Bridge in the 12^th century, the opening of the Elizabeth Line in the 21st, and the Victorian innovations in steam and underground travel in between.

Explore our current events, including our exhibition programme.

This is a historical research and public art project which aims to increase awareness of the long history of the African presence in the borough of Tower Hamlets.

Search our to catalogue to discover material held by Tower Hamlets Local History Library & Archives. Our collections include an extraordinary range of original archival documents, books, pamphlets, periodicals, maps, photographs and films.

Find out more about our services, read our policies and impact reports, and apply for volunteer roles.

View digitised archives, read our user guides, and listen to our oral history recordings and podcasts.

Browse some of our 36,000 images reflecting life in Tower Hamlets over the centuries.

Access free online resources including Ancestry Library Edition, the British Newspaper Archive, and BFI Replay.

Explore our events which aim to engage people with the rich history of the East End through our collections.

Be the first to hear the latest news and information coming straight from the Local History Library & Archives team with their regular newsletter.

Discover the history of Tower Hamlets through led and self-guided walks.