The historic environment contained within Protected Landscapes is surprisingly diverse, spanning the full spectrum from long-buried hunter-gatherer houses to recently demolished Cold War communications sites. English Heritage works closely with National Park, AONB authorities and other partners to address specific conservation and research questions by undertaking, supporting and commissioning a wide range of targeted research.
Because surface remains in Protected Landscapes are often very extensive and well preserved, work by English Heritage's archaeological survey teams often proves particularly appropriate and valuable. It is common for research into a prehistoric settlement to reveal the impacts of Second World War land-use, or for a survey of an upland moor to show how medieval grazing, 19th century grouse shooting and 20th century industry have dictated the character of the so-called natural environment.
By understanding why and how past land-use over thousands of years has precisely shaped the appearance and quality of the landscape we have inherited today, we can make better decisions about the conservation and management of the environment - historic and natural - for the benefit of future generations. A small sample of current and recently completed research by English Heritage in Protected Landscapes is presented here.
