The sections of Lord Stewart's papers which are of greatest interest are those dealing with his public life particularly his periods as First Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (1965-66). The public side of Lord Stewart's life is complemented by the personal reflections contained in the diaries and in his personal correspondence. The papers also contain a large collection of photographs and many photograph albums in addition to press cuttings, biographical information, publications and details of the various awards and honours that he received during his career.

The papers of Baroness Stewart deal primarily with her own career rather than with that of her husband. Her papers include numerous minutes and reports from the many committees that she belonged to. Her career as a Magistrate, Justice of the Peace and Governor of several local schools is covered together with her teaching and hospital and probation work. On a more personal note her experiences in the W.A.A.F. are detailed in her personal correspondence and particularly in her letters to her husband. The collection also contains the drafts and final versions of many of her publications and letters from friends and relatives.