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What is the Historic Environment Record?

DC/SMR officer at work

The regional Historic Environment Record (HER) is the most comprehensive source of information on archaeological sites and objects from within Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire. It covers all periods of human development from traces of the earliest prehistoric activity to Second World War defensive structures and includes information from Cadw on Scheduled Ancient Monuments and Listed Buildings.

As well as information on individual sites the HER contains information on past landscapes and information from previous archaeological work undertaken. We are partners with the three other Welsh Archaeological Trusts, Cadw, RCAHMW and the National Museum and Galleries of Wales.

The Record is a complex system of information based upon a computer database and digital mapping. For each entry on the record we hold key information such as the type of site, its name, its location and the period it dates from. Most records have bibliographic references and a description. At present the database holds over 39,000 records, a figure increasing every day.

Supporting this digital information is a large paper-based reference collection. (This links to a PDF file which will open in a new window)

 

A visit to the HER by residents of Pembrokeshire communities organised by PLANED
A visit to the HER by residents of Pembrokeshire communities organised by PLANED

 

A local Metal Detectorist (right) bringing in finds for recording under the Portable Antiquities Scheme
A local Metal Detectorist, Daryl Giittins (right) bringing in finds for recording under the Portable Antiquities Scheme

How can we help you?

The HER is a public record. Enquiries are welcome from anyone wishing to find out more about the archaeology of the area. Please contact the HER by telephone, letter or e-mail and explain what it is you would like information about. You can also enquire using our online form. If you wish to enquire about a particular site or area, it is helpful if you can supply a National Grid reference. Once we know about your interest we can advise you whether or not a visit would be worthwhile or whether information can be provided by another method. Information from the Historic Environment Record will normally be provided free of charge (in line with the Welsh Archaeological Trusts’ Access and Charging policy).

 

How can you help us?

Trying to keep the HER up-to-date in such an extensive area as south-west Wales is an challenging task. If we provide you with information that you find to be inaccurate please let us know. We are also interested to find out about new discoveries within the area. If you come across an object, a new site, or even a piece of fieldwork that you think we may not know about we would like to hear from you. We are also willing to provide advice on any archaeological project.

 

Online HER Enquiry Form

 

 

 

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