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.

It helps showcase the importance of heritage everywhere, as every place in England has a unique story to tell.

The national blue plaque scheme is run by Historic England on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). It builds on the value and success of the London scheme (which continues to be led by English Heritage) and numerous local schemes across the country.

Since the scheme was announced in September 2023, Historic England has installed 3 plaques as part of the development phase. They are dedicated to Daphne Steele, Clarice Cliff and George Harrison.

Our call for public nominations opened on 25 May and closed on 28 July 2024. We have had a fantastic response from the public. Nominations that meet the eligibility criteria will be assessed and may move forward for further research before being presented to the national blue plaques panel. Nominations will open again in spring 2025.

About the scheme

  • How to Make a Nomination

    The national blue plaque scheme is now closed for public nominations. Find out how to make a nomination when the process reopens in spring 2025.

  • Community Research Grants

    Grants for organisations working with underrepresented communities and partnering with researchers or historians to unearth stories.

  • The National Blue Plaques Panel

    Historic England has appointed an impressive and diverse panel of academics and cultural commentators to lead the national blue plaque scheme.

Latest plaques

  • Daphne Steele

    Daphne Steele (1927 to 2004) made history by becoming the first Black matron in the National Health Service in 1964.

  • Clarice Cliff

    The success story of ceramic designer Clarice Cliff (1899 to 1972) is rooted in the heart of the Potteries in Stoke-on-Trent.

  • George Harrison

    Music icon, songwriter and humanitarian George Harrison (1943 to 2001) first rose to international fame as the lead guitarist of The Beatles.

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