The Historic Environment Record (HER) is a rich and authoritative resource that documents Cheshire’s archaeological sites, historic buildings, landscapes, and other heritage assets. Whether you're researching local history, planning a development, or simply curious, the HER is your gateway to understanding the county’s past.
General Enquiries
In addition to our public access version of the Cheshire Historic Environment Record (HER), we recommend exploring the following online resources for historic information:
Cheshire Tithes Online: View historic maps and aerial photographs of Cheshire
National Library of Scotland: Access 18th–19th century maps, including historic Ordnance Survey maps
National Heritage List for England: Find designated heritage assets with interactive map features
If your enquiry can’t be answered using these resources or our HER viewer, please feel free to contact us directly. No charge is made for general enquiries.
Commercial Enquiries
If you're a developer, researcher or organisation needing HER data for professional use—such as: Planning applications, Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), Agri-environment schemes, and Cultural heritage studies, please submit a search request.
We aim to respond within 15 working days via email. We do not offer a priority search service.
HER Data Format
Our data is supplied in the following formats:
- Text data: PDF
- Spatial data: ArcGIS shapefiles (may require an Ordnance Survey licence)
If you need another format or don’t have GIS access, let us know and we’ll advise on a Custom search.
Requesting a Search
Please include:
- Search description and scope
- GIS data / location map / grid reference
- Search radius (e.g. 1km)
- Invoice address and purchase order number
Search Types and Charges:
Standard Search (£77): Up to 315ha (1km) in rural areas, up to 80ha (500m) in urban areas, and up to 4ha (100m) in the Chester UAD area.
Extended Search (£155): Up to 1256ha (2km) in rural areas, up to 315ha (1km) in urban areas, and up to 20ha (250m) in the Chester UAD area.
Custom Search (price on application): Special formats, large areas or specific criteria.
Forestry & Agri-environment Schemes
HER consultations for grant schemes follow protocols agreed with the Association of Local Government Archaeological Officers (ALGAO). Please refer to your application handbook or ALGAO website for guidance.
Academic & Research Projects
Large research projects may require a Custom search. Postgraduate and undergraduate dissertations are typically treated as non-commercial and may be exempt from charges.
Data Protection & Conditions of Use
We collect personal data only to respond to your enquiry or improve our services. Your information won’t be shared except where legally necessary. By using HER data, you agree to the terms outlined in our Conditions of Use.