Heritage Volunteering in the Blackdown Hills AONB

Within the Blackdown Hills AONB, there is a remarkable amount of historical and archaeological value which is one of the reasons the area is protected.  There are, 4,058 sites and buildings of archaeological and historic interest have been recorded (documented in the Devon Historic Environment Record and Somerset Historic Environment Record). There are 767 listed buildings within the AONB, and 26 Scheduled Ancient Monuments.

Find out more about the history and heritage of the Blackdown Hills AONB.

Heritage Management Practical Days

Volunteers at Dunkeswell Abbey

Over the past year we have worked with Devon County Council and Historic England to host heritage management practical days at two heritage at risk sites in the Blackdown Hills AONB, during the autumn and winter– Dunkeswell Abbey and Hembury Hillfort. These practical days are aimed to support the return of sociable, outdoor volunteering, as well as on-going protective management of nationally important monuments, within the Blackdown Hills AONB area. The tasks undertaken varied at each site but involved scrub clearance, sapling removal; wildflower meadow sowing and even an opportunity to try hedge laying.

We hope to resume these sessions at Dunkeswell Abbey and Hembury Hillfort this summer and autumn and with the help of volunteers ensure the longevity of these historic buildings into the future. If you would like to find our more please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at verity.jones@devon.gov.uk

Volunteers at Hembury Hillfort