English Heritage
English Heritage is a charity that manages the national heritage collection of England, preserving and promoting over 400 historic buildings, monuments, and sites. It was founded in 1983 through the division of the former Department of the Environment into English Heritage and the Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission for England, the latter being the official name of English Heritage.
History and Formation
- 1983: English Heritage was established as part of the reorganization of the Department of the Environment. It took over responsibilities from the Ancient Monuments Board and the Historic Buildings Council.
- 1999: Under the National Heritage Act 1983, English Heritage was granted the ability to operate independently as a charity.
- 2015: The organization was split into two separate entities:
Role and Responsibilities
The primary role of English Heritage includes:
- Conservation of historical sites, ensuring their protection and preservation for future generations.
- Providing public access to these sites, promoting education and enjoyment of England's history.
- Research, archaeology, and heritage management, including the listing of historic buildings and scheduling of ancient monuments.
- Advising the government on heritage policy and supporting local authorities with planning decisions related to heritage.
Notable Sites
Some of the most famous sites managed by English Heritage include:
Membership and Funding
English Heritage generates income through membership, visitor admissions, grants, and donations. Membership allows individuals to visit its properties for free or at reduced rates and supports the conservation work of the charity.
External Links
Related Topics