The Durham Probate Records chiefly comprise the following documents:
We hold contemporary (registered) copies of wills for 1858 to 1940, relating to County Durham only. Some related registers for the same period are also held, as detailed within the catalogue.
Original wills and other probate records dated after 1857 are held by Principal and District Probate Registries. Copies of post-1857 wills held by us cannot be photocopied or photographed, and are not available online. For copies of post-1857 wills, consult the HM Courts and Tribunals Service webpage about searching for probate records.
Digital images of most of the pre-1858 Durham Probate Records are available from the North East Inheritance catalogue online.
When using the images on familysearch, note:
The collections mentioned above are located at Palace Green Library. Our current opening hours are as follows, by appointment only (see below).
See separate Libraries and Site Information guide for further information on Palace Green Library, and for disruption due to roofing works during 2024-2025, visit our guide.
Appointments are required for all visits, please use the enquiry form to book. Appointments need to be made at least three working days in advance, and we will need to know the full list of document references or shelfmarks of the items you wish to consult before we can confirm your booking. If you are unsure of how to do this or need assistance please contact us and we will be happy to help.