Page 3 - The Building Conservation Directory 2013

t w e n t i e t h a n n i v e r s a r y e d i t i o n t h e b u i l d i n g c o n s e r vat i o n d i r e c t o r y 2 0 1 3 3
Foreword
England boasts a fascinating heritage rich in royal pageantry and historic
buildings, which attracts millions of visitors every year from both home
and abroad. From St Michael’s Mount to Bamburgh Castle, England’s
built heritage is a hugely valuable element of this country’s tourism offering as
well as a vital part of our daily lives.
We know that Britain’s rich culture and heritage are a major draw
for visitors from overseas, attracting around £4.5 billion in spend from
international visitors. Our research shows that Brits took over 20 million day
trips to historic buildings in England in 2011, worth more than £950 million to
the economy and demonstrating that the national appetite for exploring our
past is alive and well.
The exciting events of last year served to showcase our unique architecture
to an international audience. The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee highlighted the
wonderful pomp and pageantry that is unique to England, but the torch relay
in particular shone a light on some of our most iconic buildings, such as the
Tower of London, Warwick Castle and Blenheim Palace.
VisitEngland works with organisations such as English Heritage, the
Historic Houses Association and the National Trust, to promote our wonderful
historic properties, and ensure they delight and inspire more visitors than ever
before – whether they have travelled from across the globe or just down the
road. Indeed, it is from personal experience that I write this foreword since
I opened my former home, Hagley Hall, to the public for 20 years.
Another 20-year milestone is marked by this edition of The Building Conservation Directory, and it is a unique tool, bringing much
needed information to owners of historic buildings and their consultants. By sharing technical conservation information and providing
access to specialist products and services, the Directory supports the very fabric of our historic environment. Congratulations to
Cathedral Communications for this anniversary edition.
Young visitors at Penshurst Place, Kent
Penelope, Viscountess Cobham
Chairman