The Royal Berkshire Archives (formerly the Berkshire Record Office) holds the archives for the Royal County of Berkshire. They are a joint service of the six Berkshire authorities, and look after nearly nine hundred years of the County's history.
The range of archives that they hold is vast. They include family history sources dating back to the 16th century; maps and plans of towns and villages; records from over 800 schools; and collections of national interest such as the archives of Broadmoor Hospital and the Thames Conservancy.
Anyone can use the service. It is free to visit and start your own research, while they can also provide copies or do research for you.
More information on the BRO can be found here : www.royalberkshirearchives.org.uk
You can also call the BRO on +44 (0) 118 937 5132