Three Generations of Heritage Excellence
Preserving Britain's architectural legacy through dedicated stewardship, expert conservation, and unwavering commitment to heritage values since 1978.
Return to HomeOur Heritage Story
Founded on principles of heritage preservation and traditional British values, ROC Real Estate has grown from a local estate agency into Britain's premier heritage property specialist.
In the summer of 1978, Alistair Pemberton-Clarke established ROC Real Estate with a vision that extended far beyond conventional property transactions. Having witnessed the transformation of Britain's countryside during the post-war period, Alistair recognised the urgent need for specialised expertise in heritage property preservation and rural estate management.
Our journey began with the restoration of a Grade II listed Tudor manor in the Cotswolds, where Alistair's meticulous approach to conservation and deep understanding of historical building techniques caught the attention of heritage enthusiasts across Britain. This project established our reputation for combining scholarly research with practical conservation expertise.
The 1980s brought expansion as we developed partnerships with leading conservation architects, heritage craftspeople, and rural surveyors. Our network grew to encompass specialists in lime mortars, traditional roofing techniques, and period joinery, creating a comprehensive resource for heritage property owners throughout England, Scotland, and Wales.
Milestones in Heritage Excellence
Foundation
Establishment by Alistair Pemberton-Clarke
RICS Accreditation
Chartered status and professional recognition
Heritage Specialisation
Focus on listed buildings and conservation
Second Generation
Family succession and expanded services
Today, under the guidance of the second generation, we continue to uphold the founding principles while embracing contemporary conservation science and sustainable practices. Our approach balances respect for historical authenticity with practical solutions for modern living, ensuring that Britain's architectural heritage remains vibrant and relevant for future generations.
Our mission extends beyond individual properties to encompass broader heritage landscapes and rural communities. We work closely with local authorities, heritage bodies, and conservation charities to develop comprehensive strategies that preserve the character and integrity of Britain's historic built environment while supporting economic vitality in rural areas.
Our Evidence-Based Methodology
Combining traditional craftsmanship with modern conservation science, our methodology ensures the highest standards of heritage preservation and professional practice.
Historical Research
Comprehensive documentary research and archaeological investigation to understand each property's historical development and significance.
Scientific Analysis
Materials analysis, structural assessment, and environmental monitoring using cutting-edge conservation science techniques.
Traditional Craftsmanship
Collaboration with master craftspeople specialising in traditional building techniques and heritage materials.
Professional Standards Framework
Conservation Principles
- Minimal intervention philosophy
- Reversible conservation techniques
- Compatible materials specification
- Comprehensive documentation
Regulatory Compliance
- Listed building consent procedures
- Conservation area guidelines
- Historic England policy compliance
- Environmental assessment protocols
Measurable Heritage Impact
Our dedication to heritage preservation creates lasting value for property owners, local communities, and Britain's cultural landscape.
Properties Preserved
Historic properties successfully restored and managed across Britain
Client Retention
Long-term relationships built on trust and exceptional service delivery
Heritage Investment
Total value of conservation projects managed since 2020
Years Experience
Uninterrupted heritage property expertise spanning three generations
Property Value Enhancement
Our heritage properties consistently outperform general market trends, with an average value appreciation of 18% above comparable non-heritage properties over the past decade. This enhanced value stems from our meticulous approach to conservation and strategic improvements that respect historical integrity.
Properties under our management benefit from increased marketability due to comprehensive heritage documentation, established conservation protocols, and networks of specialist contractors. These advantages translate into reduced time on market and premium pricing when properties are offered for sale.
Community Heritage Benefits
Our work extends beyond individual properties to benefit entire heritage landscapes and rural communities. Through our conservation projects, we support traditional building trades, local craftspeople, and heritage tourism initiatives that sustain rural economies.
Many of our projects have received recognition from heritage organisations and local authorities, contributing to the preservation of Britain's built heritage for future generations. Our educational partnerships help train the next generation of conservation professionals and craftspeople.
Our Heritage Specialists
A dedicated team of heritage professionals combining decades of experience with contemporary expertise in conservation science and rural property management.
Cordelia Ashworth-Sinclair
Managing Director & Heritage Consultant
Second-generation leader with dual qualifications in Art History and Rural Estate Management from Cambridge. Specialises in Grade I listed properties and rural estate succession planning with over two decades of experience.
Barnaby Thistlethwaite
Senior Conservation Surveyor
Conservation architect and building pathology specialist with expertise in medieval and Tudor structures. Leads our technical assessment team and heritage grant application processes throughout Britain.
Seraphina Weatherby-Cross
Rural Estate Manager
Agricultural land specialist with extensive knowledge of countryside stewardship and environmental regulations. Manages our largest rural estates and coordinates agricultural tenancy arrangements across Scotland and Wales.
Quality Standards & Safety Protocols
Our comprehensive approach to quality assurance ensures the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and heritage conservation in every project.
Professional Accreditations
Safety & Insurance Protocols
Continuous Professional Development
Our commitment to excellence extends through ongoing education and collaboration with leading heritage institutions.
Annual CPD Hours
Per team member professional development commitment
Industry Partnerships
Active collaborations with heritage organisations
Research Publications
Heritage conservation papers published in 2024
Company Values & Heritage Expertise
At ROC Real Estate, our values are deeply rooted in the British tradition of heritage stewardship and countryside conservation. We believe that historic properties are not merely assets but living testimonies to our cultural heritage, requiring careful stewardship to preserve their significance for future generations. Our approach combines reverence for historical authenticity with practical solutions for contemporary living, ensuring that heritage properties remain vibrant and relevant while retaining their architectural integrity.
Our expertise encompasses the full spectrum of heritage property management, from medieval manor houses to Georgian townhouses, from working farms to country estates. We understand the unique challenges posed by listed building regulations, conservation area restrictions, and rural planning policies. Our team maintains current knowledge of heritage grant opportunities, tax benefits, and succession planning strategies specific to historic properties, enabling us to provide comprehensive guidance that maximises both heritage value and financial returns.
Innovation within tradition defines our methodology. We embrace cutting-edge conservation science, environmental monitoring, and sustainable building practices while respecting traditional craftsmanship and time-tested materials. Our network of specialist contractors includes master craftspeople in traditional building trades, ensuring that restoration projects maintain authenticity and quality. We collaborate with leading conservation institutions and academic researchers to advance best practices in heritage property management and contribute to the broader understanding of conservation principles.
Client relationships built on trust, discretion, and mutual respect form the foundation of our practice. We recognise that heritage property ownership often involves deeply personal connections to family history and cultural identity. Our consultative approach ensures that every recommendation aligns with our clients' values, objectives, and circumstances. Whether advising on restoration priorities, market strategies, or succession planning, we provide guidance that honours both heritage significance and practical requirements.
Discover Our Heritage Expertise
Connect with our heritage specialists to explore how our three generations of expertise can benefit your historic property. Every consultation begins with understanding your unique requirements and heritage objectives.