Try to become familiar with the basic sources, such as census, IGI, GRO indexes and parish registers, the information they contain and their limitations. Ask at your local library. Be prepared to travel for sources you require.
Local records tend to be held locally.
Before going to any record office or local studies library, telephone in advance. Many offices have a closed day each week or require bookings to be made. These are indexes of all registered births, marriages and deaths in England and Wales since 1837. We hold indexes up to 1950 and a small charge is payable for using them. The index gives enough information to apply for a certificate.