Heritage of London Trust

Engaging communities in local heritage

The Heritage of London Trust rescues historic buildings and monuments. The charity works in every London borough and has completed more than 850 restoration projects.

Many of London’s heritage sites are at risk through weathering, pollution, neglect, poor repairs, vandalism, or other anti-social behaviour. Restoration can be hindered by lack of expertise, funding cuts, bureaucracy, and a reticence to invest in non-commercial sites in deprived areas.

At the same time, heritage sites have enormous potential to support the regeneration of places and communities, reduce anti-social behaviour by demonstrating care for the places in which people live and work, and educate and inspire young people through the process of repair and the stories behind the sites. Communities are strengthened through a shared experience of local projects and opportunities to get involved. In 2020 the Heritage of London Trust launched its Proud Places programme to offer site visits and workshops and over 9,000 young people have now taken part.

Focusing on heritage at risk, the Heritage of London Trust identifies projects, commissions condition surveys, provides grants, and guides the restoration projects from beginning to end, working with local authorities and specialist conservators to bring heritage sites back to life.