Skip to main content

The Historic Environment Record

The Historic Environment Record (HER) is a collection of information about the nature and location of archaeological sites in Suffolk.

The HER is used to identify and assess sites that are at risk of damage by new development. It can also be used for research purposes by academics, pupils or the public, wishing to learn about the past.

The main HER inventory is held in a database and on digital mapping. We also hold supplementary information, such as, plans, photographs, drawings or reports.

How to access information from the HER

Read the HER User Guidelines if you want to use HER. There are various ways to access information from the HER, depending on what you need the HER information for.

Choice of services

Data request from HER

Complete data request online form

Parish Code request (before conducting fieldwork)

Complete parish code request online form

For personal study or research

Search Suffolk Heritage Explorer

For complex studies you can do either of the following:

  • Email the HER stating your requirements if you wish to receive data digitally
  • Make an appointment to discuss your requirements with the HER team at the office

Please note that there are charges in place for using the HER for commercial work.

Contact the HER

We're based at:

Suffolk Historic Environment Record
Suffolk County Council Archaeological Service,
Bury Resource Centre,
Hollow Road,
Bury St Edmunds,
IP32 7AY

Heritage Explorer

The Suffolk Heritage Explorer is a useful resource for learning more about your local area (though the information on the heritage explorer is not suitable for use in planning applications.)

Suffolk Historic Landscape Characterisation Map

This project characterises the historic landscape of Suffolk through the identification and mapping of a range of defined historic landscape types. 

The map exists as a computer based Geographic Information System (GIS) map table. Visit Suffolk Heritage Explorer website for information on the Suffolk Historic Landscape Characterisation Map.