The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings

We believe old buildings have a future. From cottages to castles and from churches to cathedrals we are here to help buildings and the people who care for them. Based on years of experience and research we understand how old buildings work.

News

Become a member

Join today to support our positive, practical approach to building conservation. As a member you become part of a network of like-minded people who care for historic buildings. Other benefits include The SPAB Magazine, access to the Property List and the opportunity to join your local Regional Group.

Scholarship

A deep-dive into the knowledge and skills needed to work with traditional buildings for early career architects, surveyors and engineers.

Fellowship

The Fellowship is a training programme designed to broaden the skills and experience of craftspeople involved in historic building repairs. 

Upcoming Events

Talk
Online Talk - Assess Before You Act: Whole Building Approach for Vernacular Energy Efficiency and Climate Resilience
21/07/2026
In this talk Hannah Reynolds of Historic England will look how a whole-building approach can inform energy efficiency and climate resilience strategies for traditional buildings, balancing environmental performance with the conservation of historic fabric and significance using the latest research.
Visit
Greater Manchester Group Tour of the Church of the Holy Name and Tower Fabric Repairs
23/07/2026
Join the SPAB Greater Manchester Group for a guided tour of the Church of the Holy Name, and tower fabric repairs led by Architect Mark Pearce, from Pearce Architecture. The works have involved extensive repairs to the concrete structure of the tower, including the renewal of the concrete roof deck and repairs to roof coverings, rainwater goods, masonry and walkways.
Visit
Kent and Surrey Group Visit to Joinery Workshop, Canterbury
24/07/2026
Join the Kent and Surrey Group for a visit to a timber joinery workshop specialising in Accoya timber. We will see the production process and discuss the replacement of timber windows and doors in the context of the SPAB philosophy.
Technical advice

Caring for all old buildings can be challenging, but traditional mills can be particularly tricky as windmills and watermills are by definition exp

Become a Mills Section member

The SPAB’s Mills Section is the only Society concerned solely with protecting and promoting traditional windmills and watermills in the UK. The Section provides advice and training to mill owners and heritage professionals, and campaigns for the protection of milling heritage. Join the Section now to support its work and receive a range of membership benefits.