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

Visit
Essex and Suffolk Group visit to Tillingham
21/02/2026
Join the Essex and Suffolk Group for an exclusive visit to a series of private houses, to which public access is usually limited – a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We'll see buildings spanning the 15th to 18th centuries, many of which have undergone recent repair and research. Our guides will be the owners and local Conservation Officer.
Visit
Kent and Surrey Group - Tudor Tiles and All Saints - second visit
05/03/2026
EXTRA DATE ADDED - A double visit with the Kent & Surrey Group: First, Tudor Roof Tiles, England’s largest maker of handmade clay roof tiles. Next, a guided tour of All Saints Church, Lydd — the “Cathedral of the Marsh”. Discover traditional craft skills and explore over 1,500 years of church history with expert insight.
Talk
Women in Conservation
10/03/2026
What does it mean to be a woman in conservation? Join the panel as they consider the creativity, skills, ambitions and challenges faced by women working in the historic built environment.
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.