Inland Rock
The rich geological diversity of the English landscape has resulted in specially adapted natural habitats, but also places where people, from the earliest dates, have left their mark. Here you can find advice on how to care for geological heritage to inform nature recovery work.
Inland rock and the historic environment
People have engaged with naturally occurring outcrops of rock for millennia. They have used freely available stone for construction, caves for shelter and other activities, rocky habitats for sourcing food or rock surfaces for creating art. The relationship between rock outcrops and people has helped shape the habitats that we now value.
Research into past human relationships with rock outcrops can contribute to our understanding of past environments. The preservation and conservation of surviving cultural heritage associated with rock outcrops can also help protect their natural heritage.
Many buildings and structures, particularly ruined structures, can replicate the habitat of natural rock outcrops. In some places, people have created caves for dwelling or other activities in easily excavated rock types. They can become valuable places for wildlife and nature.
Many quarries, especially those now abandoned, have also become important places for nature.
The following pages provide information on inland rock and the historic environment.
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Prehistoric Rock Art
Introductions to Heritage Assets. An introduction to prehistoric rock art.
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Plants on Walls
Information on plants on walls at historic sites
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Soft Capping to Protect Ruined Masonry
Information about Historic England's research into soft capping on ruined masonry
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Building Stones of England
The Building Stones Database for England provides information on local building stones, their uses and sources with a GIS Map Explorer.
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Restoration, Aftercare, After-Use
Restoration, aftercare and after-use of mineral extraction sites taking account of potential impacts on the historic environment.
