HES Archives and Library

Step inside the HES Archives and Library in Edinburgh and explore Scotland's past through over five million historic photographs, drawings and more.

About HES Archives and Library

	John Sinclair House 16 Bernard Terrace, Edinburgh South EH8 9NX
	01316688600
	HES Archives and Library Website
	Follow histenvscot on Twitter
	Facebook information can be found here

Our extensive archive in Edinburgh spans a whole range of buildings, archaeological monuments and industrial and maritime sites, giving unparalleled insight into Scotland’s stories.

The archives – compiled and managed by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) – first began in 1908. Today, we hold more than five million items and continue to record all aspects of the historic environment.

What to see and do:

Discover information about Scotland's places through documents and books

Browse architects’ drawings, historic photographs or excavation archives

Trace our changing landscape through historic and modern maps and photographs

Consult the National Collection of Aerial Photography - advance bookings are required

Access online resources such as Canmore and Scran

We take every opportunity to ensure the details for HES Archives and Library are accurate, if any of the above information is incorrect we would appreciate if you could take a minute to suggest an edit.

All information (whether in text or photographs) is supplied in good faith but should not be relied upon as being a statement of representation or fact.

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Upcoming Events at HES Archives and Library

Exhibitions

Rosslyn Chapel & Scottish Antiquaries Exhibition

9th November 2023 - 1st October 2024

HES Archives and Library, Edinburgh South

Historic Environment Scotland Archives acquired the Rosslyn Album in 2021 and this exhibition presents images from the archive collections relating to Rosslyn Chapel and the contents of the album.