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 Bawdsey
24/01/2026
Join us in Bawdsey for a combined visit to the Radar Museum and Manor house. A unique tour of military heritage and a late Victorian country house.
Talk
Women in Conservation
10/03/2026
What does it mean to be a woman in conservation? Join us for a unique panel discussion as we consider the creativity, skills, ambitions and challenges faced by women working in the historic built environment.
Visit
Grinding Grain at Preston Mill
24/03/2026
Join us at Preston Mill to see this watermill grind grain for the first time in nearly 40 years. Meet the mill supervisor to learn about the history, machinery and skills involved. Plus, the North UK Mills Group expert community on site.
National Mills Weekend

The National Mills Weekend is an annual celebration promoted by the Mills Section of SPAB.  

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.