English Family History Research and Genealogy Services Worldwide

Specialist in DNA genealogy, Titanic and maritime family histories, transported convicts, and tracing ancestors across the UK and abroad.

Uncover your ancestors’ stories with expert English family history research, professional DNA analysis, and specialist studies of Titanic, maritime, and transported convict families.

I’m Nicola Johnson: a qualified genealogist helping clients in the UK and worldwide to trace their family history, uncover ancestors’ lives, and preserve their stories for future generations.

Services I Offer

Family Tree Research

Tracing your ancestors using reliable English records and following the trail to Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and further overseas if needed.

DNA Analysis & Unknown Parentage

Making sense of your DNA results and helping you connect the dots or discover missing family.

Titanic & Maritime Family Histories

Specialist research into seafaring ancestors, including the families of Titanic crew and passengers.

Transported Convicts

Tracing convict ancestors through trial, prison, and transportation records. From convicts sent to Australia to the families they left behind, discover the stories hidden in convict records.

Legacy Projects & Gifts

Beautifully presented research available in leather-bound binders or bespoke hardback book form – perfect for sharing with family or marking a milestone.

I am a qualified professional genealogist and writer specialising in English family history research, DNA analysis, and seafaring ancestors. From Titanic families to transported convicts, I uncover the lives of ordinary people shaped by extraordinary histories.

I also trace ancestors in Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and  overseas, including the USA, Canada, Australia and British India.

My research is trusted by clients, published in family history magazines, and shared at national events. As a member of the Register of Qualified Genealogists (RQG) and an AGRA Associate, I follow the highest standards, offering expert family history research and clear, reliable results.

You can find out more about me on my About page.

📩 Ready to explore your family’s story? Get in touch today.

From quick answers to detailed family trees, I offer research options to suit every budget.

Ready to Begin?

Take the next step in discovering your family’s story. Book a free consultation or get in touch with your questions — I’d love to help.

Why Choose Me?

  • Expertly qualified: Master’s (Distinction) degree in Genealogy (University of Strathclyde).
  • Specialist in DNA analysis and unknown parentage
  • Expert in English Family History
  • Experienced in tracing families to Scotland, Wales, Ireland, the USA, Australia and British India
  • Specialist knowledge of Titanic families, maritime research and portside communities
  • Member of the Register of Qualified Genealogists (RQG) and an AGRA Associate.
  • Focused, discreet and professional, following the highest research standards.

With over 15 years’ experience as a senior broadcast journalist (BBC & Associated Press), I bring strong investigative skills and a clear, engaging writing style to every case. My background ensures your research is accurate, reliable, and presented in a way that makes your family history come alive.

I’m also media trained and available for interviews or speaking engagements.

What Clients Say

“Nicola is a real expert in family history research. She’s thorough, knowledgeable and great at presenting the results of her research in an interesting and engaging manner. Her background as a BBC journalist is evident throughout her work. Highly recommended!”

— Sandra D., Christchurch, Dorset

“Nicola provides a first-class service. With her incredible knowledge and expertise, Nicola discovered so much information about my family. I now understand my roots more – and traits in my own personality.”

— Lady Caroline G., Hampshire

DNA Research Services

Understand your DNA results and discover unknown relatives. I offer clear, sensitive guidance for interpreting complex results and resolving family mysteries through genetic genealogy.

Traditional Family History

Trace your ancestors through English, Scottish, and Welsh records. Whether you're starting from scratch or building on what you know, I can help create a clear, documented family tree.

Titanic and Merchant Navy

Specialist research into Titanic crew families and maritime ancestors. Extensive experience with maritime records and tracing the lives of seafarers and their families, including those connected to the Titanic.