What is recorded on the HER?
The earliest site on the Record, Lindale Low Cave, dates from the Lower Palaeolithic (before 8000 BC) and the latest from the twentieth century, for example Greenside Lead Mine, where production ceased in 1962 and Haweswater Dam, finished in the 1940s. A whole range of historic environment information such as buildings (listed and unlisted), chance finds, landscape features (such as dry stone walls and sheepfolds) and environmental data is incorporated in the database.
Currently, the Lake District’s HER has just over 20,000 records (November 2025). The records are constantly being edited and updated as new research or finds are added.
How can the HER be accessed?
The Lake District HER is a public record, and we welcome enquiries and information from anyone with an interest in the historic environment of the area. Developers, consultants, academic researchers and members of the public all use the HER.
The HER can be viewed on-line on the Heritage Gateway website. Any research requiring up-to-date results should be made by consulting our Historic Environment Team directly at archaeology@lakedistrict.gov.uk (opens email). This is essential if your enquiry concerns any planning matters.
The physical records are held at our head office at Wayfaring House, Murley Moss, Oxenholme, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 7RL, where anyone can make an appointment to see it. Please email archaeology@lakedistrict.gov.uk (opens email) if you have a query or would like to make an appointment.
HER charging and policies
Access to the HER is governed by our Information Services Policy. This gives details on what information you will receive, and what information we need from you to process your request. Please see the documents below for more information.
We charge contractors and consultants for commercial enquiries relating to planning matters. Please see the document below for more information.
