The ultimate guide to caring for old buildings, updated for 2023
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New Edition: Old House Handbook -
Learn something newDiscover practical workshops, professional courses and fascinating talks
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SPAB ScotlandKeep up to date with news and events
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SPAB IrelandProtecting the built heritage on the whole island of Ireland
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OLD HOUSE PROJECTRepairing a 'sleeping beauty' building in Kent
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Support the SPABBecome a Member
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.
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News
Author Brian Hoggard explains some of the fascinating methods people have used to protect their homes.
The best-selling Old House Handbook has now been completely updated to reflect current best practices and the latest thinking on the techniques and materials used to care for old buildings.
The fire at Clandon Park was a tragedy, but one from which something new and positive can emerge.
Join our mailing list
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 & Fellowship
Education programmes for architects, surveyors, engineers and craftspeople to further their 'hands-on' understanding of historic building conservation.
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Upcoming Events
Event
03/11/2023
Join the Kent & Surrey Regional Group on a visit to St John’s Seminary, which is currently being converted into residential flats.
Lecture
07/11/2023
Join us for an entertaining and fascinating insight into the unusual buildings we see along the coast of Dorset.
Course
13/11/2023
Join us for the online version of our popular Repair of Old Buildings Course. Through a series of recorded lectures, virtual site visits and online Q&A sessions you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of the repair, maintenance and conservation of old buildings.
Campaigns
Campaign
The SPAB runs national campaigns raising awareness about important issues surrounding the protection of old buildings.
Your campaign
If you’re worried about a deteriorating building in your local area, want to contest a planning application, build your own local campaign or set up a building preservation trust then the The SPAB Campaign Toolkit can offer guidance.
Mills
Technical advice
All old buildings need regular care and maintenance in order to prevent serious disrepair. Windmills and watermills are by their nature exposed to wear from wind and water in addition to facing problems common to historic buildings.
The SPAB Mills Section has put together a suite of resources and guidance tailored to those caring for old windmills and watermills.
Visit a mill
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.