The National Archives

Happened to be in the area and it was cold, so took a look round the free 20's exhibition very atmospheric and unexpectedly interesting. Oh and the is a cafe too. Worth a look if this is your sort of thing.

What a great place!
I came in to do some work related research, but what a building! Friendly and knowledgeable staff, well signposted and resourced. They are currently allowing free access to the 1921 census so great if you want to do some family research too! Well worth a visit

Staff are pleasant and helpful and the necessary security checks are done politely. These checks are necessary because in many cases the documents kept here are the only copies in existence! Reading rooms are very spacious. Beautiful building and grounds in keeping with the great importance of this national resource.

A very spacious, well planned place with (of course) a lot of information and history to explore. Checking the exhibition info beforehand to avoid disappointment is recommended.

Lovely area. Cafe sells 'Maids of Honour' cakes and pies. Eat inside or out. Explore your family history. Lovely place to pop in to and have a cup of tea. Parking available.

Visited here with my 6 year old daughter and have had really great time. All staffs were so kind and nice, from information to cafeteria.
Good choice as a family dayout.

+ excellent kids events there. Visited several events there over the years and always child appropriate, fun, interesting for kids and parents
+ interactive kids events are a must, so much fun. Like a treasure hunt indoors and outdoors. Exceptional high quality event. Don’t miss it. Take some friends.
+ craft events of high quality
+ some good adult events with chance to see old documents
+ all Holocaust events I went to were good
+- adult events are often about a very narrow topic. Check title and description
+- exhibitions are sometimes worth it, sometimes not really
- cafe and restaurant not very inviting
- parking is expensive and annoying, park at Kew Retail and walk
- really regret not being able to go in more restricted areas of building any more. But I understand

Went to view family documents in the Reading Room and then free access to 1921 census via "Find my Past". Highly successful visit & able to email documents to own email account. Allow plenty of time. Nice cafe with hot lunches & drinks available. Super shop too with a wide selection of books.