ABSTRACT
Historic landscape characterisation (HLC) is a GIS-based method developed by archaeologists in the UK since the mid-1990s. Its objective is to present interpretations of how landscape character has been shaped by historic processes. In contrast to approaches which delineate particular features or areas as historically significant, HLC practitioners recognise the ubiquity of landscape and present continuous interpretations of ’historic character’ for all areas including rural, urban and maritime landscapes. The HLC process creates data which can be used to highlight the intimate relationships between history, heritage and landscape. The principal applications of HLC are in landscape management and planning, but it is also a valuable tool for research and for engaging the participation of a wider public in landscape action.
