Social and Economic Research

The historic environment is of significant social and economic value.

Socially, the historic environment is of great value to communities and individuals alike. It's a source of pride and deep emotional connection, and it creates a sense of familiarity and belonging.

Economically, England’s historic environment is world-renowned, drawing tourists from across the globe. The maintenance and restoration of our iconic historic buildings is a major source of employment and its beauty attracts people, businesses and investment, meaning it has a vital role in the regeneration of our towns and cities.

Historic England is committed to carrying out social and economic research to build the evidence base demonstrating the value of heritage to individuals, communities and the economy. The resources and publications in these pages are aimed at helping the public and professionals to make the case for heritage.

  • Heritage Counts

    Heritage Counts is the annual audit of England's heritage. It outlines changes in the sector and reports on indicators for the historic environment.

  • Research Reports

    A complete list of current research produced by the Social and Economic Research Team.

  • Taking Part Survey

    The Taking Part survey provides a reliable evidence source that can be used to analyse cultural and sporting engagement.

  • CASE

    CASE is a programme of strategic research which collects cross-cutting social and economic evidence to directly influence culture and sport policy.

  • Survey of Listed Building Owners

    A series of surveys to build our understanding of the experiences of owning a listed building.

  • Historic Visitor Attraction Survey

    The Annual Survey of Visits to Visitor Attractions has been run since 1989 providing insight into visitor trends at historic sites in England.

  • Heritage Labour Market Intelligence

    Information about the heritage workforce and good practice how best to collect this information.

  • Culture and Heritage Capital

    An economic approach for valuing our cultural heritage assets and the benefits they provide to people and businesses.

  • Wellbeing

    Historic England's work to support individual and community wellbeing through interactions with heritage

  • Outreach to Ownership Research Pilot

    Call for partners to participate in an innovative cross-border research pilot exploring inclusive approaches to community engagement.

  • Heritage and Civic Pride: Voices From Levelling Up Country

    Public opinion in priority areas for levelling up on the role of historic buildings, industrial heritage and historic parks in fostering civic pride.