Historic England - Championing England's heritage

Old leather-bound books on three shelves of Chetham's Library, Long Millgate, Manchester.

Books on shelves at the Grade I listed Chetham's Library in Manchester. Established in 1653, Chetham’s is believed to be the oldest free public reference library in the United Kingdom. © Historic England Archive. DP220370. View List entry 1283015

The Missing Pieces Project

All over England are places with stories to tell. Their stories are still being written, and they won’t be complete until you share your side.

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One man holding a piece of metal on an anvil while the other man hammers it.

Everyday Heritage Grants

Funding for creative projects that focus on heritage connecting people to historic places, specifically those people and places that are overlooked or underrepresented.

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A photograph of a heritage blue plaque on a brown brick wall flanked by red curtains. The text of the plaque reads: Historic England / Cary Grant (Archie Leach) / 1904-1986 / Actor and Film Star lived here as a child"

The National Blue Plaque Scheme

Historic England's national blue plaque scheme celebrates people from all walks of life who have made a significant contribution to human welfare or happiness; and/or have made an exceptional impact in their field, community or on society at large.

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The town hall in the market place with the Church of St Anne directly next to it

In Your Area

See what's happening in your local historic environment and find out how you can help uncover the hidden stories behind your local heritage.

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The Historic England Blog

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a heritage professional, or simply curious about the past, the Historic England blog provides insights into the events, people, and places that have shaped England.

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Heritage at Risk 2024

Historic England has revealed its Heritage at Risk Register 2024. The Register gives an annual snapshot of the health of England’s valued historic buildings and places, helping to ensure they can be protected and enjoyed in the future.

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Solar panels on an old Victorian terrace house roof.

Energy Advice for Homeowners

Find out how to cut your fuel bills and carbon footprint in ways that are sympathetic to the historic character of your building.

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Help Your Organisation Towards Net Zero

Guidance on how to get to net zero for heritage organisations or businesses using historic buildings.

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Close up image of metal-framed windows in an old building.

Adapting Historic Buildings for Energy and Carbon Efficiency

Historic England has produced a new Advice Note to provide clarity and support consistent decision-making for proposals to reduce carbon emissions and improve the energy efficiency of historic buildings whilst conserving their significance and ensuring they remain viable places to live in the future. It reflects current national planning policy.

Read the Advice Note

Bembridge Windmill with a grass meadow in the foreground and a cloudy but vivid blue sky.

Latest Research

Historic England research into how climate change affects the historic environment.

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Our Climate Change Strategy

A strategy for Historic England’s response to the climate, energy and biodiversity crisis.

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Flooding Advice

How to inspect, conserve and repair historic buildings after flooding, as well as ways to prevent flood damage in the first place.

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Meeting participants sitting at tables listening to a leader speaker.

Inclusive Heritage Advice Hub

Advice for organisations wishing to ensure that their work is as diverse and inclusive as possible.

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A learner accesses a course on "Significance in Planning Legislation, Policy and Guidance" from a laptop.

Training and Skills

Historic environment specialist training, CPD and skill development opportunities to understand, protect and conserve historic places.

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A group of volunteers gathered in front of a historic building.

Careers and Volunteering

Interested in a career at Historic England? We’re always looking for passionate people with fresh perspectives to join us.

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Scaffolding and a conservator working on a historic building

Caring for Heritage

Find out how to care for the heritage on your doorstep, from cemeteries and monuments to local streets and places of worship.

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Two boys leaning on a wall overlooking the London city skyline

The Planning System

The planning system works to protect historic places and guides decisions on proposed changes to the historic environment, including those which are protected by listing.

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Education Resources

Discover inspiring education and work experience resources to help pupils learn about their local and national heritage.

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People wearing long coats and umbrellas walk in the rain along Pier Road in Whitby, North Yorkshire.

Pier Road in Whitby, North Yorkshire. Since this photograph was taken, the harbourside has been widened to accommodate the fish quay and market. Photographer: Alfred Newton and Sons. Source: Historic England Archive. View image record BB98/05778