This collection comprises a database of aisled buildings produced by the Vernacular Architecture Group.

Previously, lists and maps of aisled halls were published by Kathleen Sandell in Vernacular Architecture 6 (1975) and 17 (1986). No list of aisled barns has ever been published, though a map was produced by Stuart Rigold (VA 2 (1971)). The database has been compiled using Sandell’s list together with buildings identified as aisled in the List of Historic Buildings for England [HEL] and from Peter Smith’s work and Coflein for Wales. The construction of the database and details of its structure are described in: Nat Alcock, ‘A Database of Aisled Buildings in England and Wales’, Vernacular Architecture, 54 (2023, 6-16).

The initial version of the database of aisled buildings was produced in 2023/4. It includes 2540 aisled buildings (392 halls and 2127 barns, with a few other types of buildings). It also includes 110 buildings with aisled closed or end trusses and 173 buildings identified as having spere trusses.

The database contains information on the name, location, function and condition of the buildings and bibliographic references, with further details on their structure and date. For more details, go to the Overview page, or carry out a search using the Query page.

Vernacular Architecture Group

The Vernacular Architecture Group was formed in 1952 to further the study of lesser traditional buildings. The Group has over 600 members, including some 50 overseas members, and a number of affiliated groups and exchanging societies. Membership is open to anyone interested in vernacular architecture. Members are involved in all aspects of the recording and study of vernacular buildings including detailed local or regional surveys, studies of particular types of buildings, building materials and techniques, documentary evidence and principles of development.

Other VAG collections include:

• Dendrochronology Database
• Cruck Database
• VAG Bibliography
• Wealden Houses Database