FamilySearch Affiliate Library at The Panacea Charitable Trust and Museum
FamilySearch is a free resource that helps people discover their family history. It maintains a collection of records, resources, and services designed to help people research their families and others.
1. How can I book to visit?
You can book your visit using the booking form at the bottom of this page.
2. When is the Library open and what booking slots are available?
The library is open on Thursday - Sunday each week. We offer two booking slots per day: 11:30am-1:30pm and 2pm-4pm.
3. How can I prepare for my visit and what do I need to bring?
Prior to you visit you will need to need to make sure you have an account with FamilySearch. You will need to bring your username and password for FamilySearch with you when you visit. If you do not already have an account with FamilySearch, details of how to set up an account can be found at https://www.familysearch.org/en/help/helpcenter/article/how-do-i-create-a-free-familysearch-account. We also recommend that you familiarise yourself with how to navigate the site before your visit.
4. Will someone be available to help me with my research?
Unfortunately staff are not available to provide research support during your visit.
5. Where are you located?
Our address is 11 Newnham Road, MK40 3NX.
By public transport: The museum is located in the town centre and is easily accessible from Bedford’s railway and bus stations.
By car: There is no public on-site parking. However, pay and display parking is available in the surrounding streets. There is also a multi-storey car park is in Lurke Street only a few minutes’ walk from the museum. Further details of public car parks can be found at https://www.bedford.gov.uk/par...
Further information:
Accessibility
Parking: Blue badge holders can park in front of Number 9, Newnham Road, or around the corner on Albany Road.
Entering: The main entrance to the museum is via the front entrance to 'The Haven' - number 11 Newnham Road. Step-free and wheelchair entrance to the museum is available via our side door on Castle Road, located to the left of the main entrance.
There is also an extra-wide entrance at number 7 Newnham Road. This option is on offer for users of very large powered wheelchairs. If you need to use this entrance, we advise calling ahead on 01234 353178.
Toilets: There is an accessible toilet on the ground floor within 'Castleside', which is across from The Haven. The nearest Changing Places toilet is at The Higgins Bedford, Castle Ln, Bedford MK40 3XD.
Food and Drink
Food and drink is not allowed in the museum or library area. However, the museum has a small Tea room that offers a selection of hot and cold drinks, assorted snacks.
