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Who we are

The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) is a registered charity, working since 1976 to promote the conservation and sustainable re-use of historic buildings for the benefit of communities across the UK, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas.

The AHF exists to help communities find enterprising ways to revitalise the old buildings they love. We help them with advice, grants and loans. Our support acts as a catalyst for putting sustainable heritage at the heart of vibrant local economies. For over 40 years, we’ve been the leading social investor in creating new futures for historic buildings.

What we do

The AHF is unique in that we are able to offer support to local communities at every point in the life-cycle of a project – from start-up advice and grants for early development work and project planning, through to loans for acquisition and as working capital for project delivery. We are often the first point of contact for community groups seeking to rescue historic buildings ‘at risk’.

We have a network of local officers based in each UK nation and the English regions who can offer advice and support to your group, whatever stage you are at. If we can’t help, we’ll signpost you to other organisations that may be able to.

 

Since 1976, the AHF has supported nearly 2000 historic building reuse projects across the UK, through £90m of loan offers and £33m of grants invested in the community-led regeneration of historic buildings and places.

 

Read about our impact

Our Aims

Over the next five years, the AHF’s strategic aims will be to:

Aim One: Fund

Deliver targeted investment that leads to the sustainable reuse and management of historic buildings.

Aim Two: Support

Support charities and social enterprises to take ownership of, develop and sustain new uses for historic buildings.

Aim Three: Inspire

Champion the impact of heritage and community-led regeneration.

Our Values

We have defined the core values of the AHF that we will adhere to at all times. These are:

  • Enabling
  • Collaborative
  • Expert
  • Grounded
  • Inclusive

Our commitment to each of these core values is set out in our current five-year Strategy.