The ruins of Lesnes Abbey from the air
The ruins of Lesnes Abbey from the air
The ruins of Lesnes Abbey from the air

Volunteering with the Greater London Historic Environment Record

On this page you will find information on volunteering with the Greater London Historic Environment Record.

Greater London Historic Environment Record volunteers

We have opportunities for enthusiastic volunteers to help develop the Greater London Historic Environment.  The Greater London Historic Environment Record (GLHER) is a key resource for understanding London's heritage, and our volunteers play a critical role developing this resource. Current projects include:

  • historic parks and gardens,
  • archaeological excavation burial sampling strategies, 
  • London workhouse, and 
  • World War One hospital sites.

Opportunities to work with the GLHER will vary depending on the current priorities of the GLHER, but where possible will be tailored to your interests and availability. Such opportunities may involve:

  • assisting in the development and enhancement of the Historic Environment Record, or
  • documentary research into particular places, periods or themes.

We can provide limited travel expenses.

What experience do I need?

No previous experience is needed, just an interest in London's historic environment, and we will provide all the support and training required.

Do you take student placements?

We do take a small number of student placements each year, although we ask that you do commit to at least two weeks work with us due to the training we will give you.  Undertaking a placement with the GLHER you can: 

  • use your existing skills and experience,
  • developing new skills: use of our HER database, and Geographical Information System (GIS),
  • experience working with a historic environment record, and a heritage planning team, and
  • help develop your career.

The number of volunteers/placements we can take is limited, so please see the Historic England Volunteer page for our current availability.