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Archives, films and recordings

The British Council does not physically hold historical archives. Our archival records are deposited in various repositories based on their areas of interest and expertise, and in accordance with negotiated agreements. Records are transferred to these repositories and are generally made available to the public after 30 years Information about access is available from the repository in question or from us.

On this page you will find links to UK repositories where British Council records are held and a summary of the type of material available. Use the links to view contact details and more detailed information about access. Some have an online catalogue allowing you to search or browse.

For information about access to archive material that is under 30 years old or still held by us, or if you have any questions about British Council history please contact us

Public Record Office

Main repository of British Council records and an excellent source of information on public and cultural diplomacy activities overseas 1920s to 1970s

Sir Reginald Leeper    

Tate Gallery

British Council records relating to visual arts promotion. Mainly British Council exhibition files containing correspondence, photographs and catalogues and records relating to our collection. Also Tate Gallery files about loans to British Council. Please note that some visual arts material is also stored at the PRO. 1930s to 1970s   

British Library National Sound Archive (NSA)

The National Sound Archive is the specialist repository for all audio media records and oral history. It holds the work of the British Council Recordings Unit and the designated repository for the current oral history project. 1940s onwards

British Council library, Amsterdam, 1948    

British Film Institute

The British Film Institute houses the British Film Archive. It holds films produced and sponsored by the British Council. 1940s to 1990s

Council reps advise on using TV media, 1971    

Other links

Below are some other UK institutions that hold a few British Council records or who hold material that relates to us

Churchill Archives Centre. Correspondence of former Chairman, Rt Hon Sir Malcolm Robertson (1942 to 1945) and the Sir Winston Churchill Papers

Reading University Special Collections. Collection of autograph letters to and from notable British authors

University of Warwick: Modern Records Centre Papers and records created by British Council Staff Association and Trade Union Side

Sir Winston Churchill