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, but see also below.
For further information on visiting to use the collections, please use our enquiry form.
See separate Libraries and Site Information guide for further information on Palace Green Library.
Due to essential works, there will be a period of restricted access to the Archives and Special Collections throughout April and May. Details of opening times can be found in our Library Sites guide. Appointments will be required for all visits during April and May, please use the enquiry form to book. Please give three working days notice for appointments and include a full list of document references or shelfmarks so that we can best enable your research access.