Gloucestershire hut where Jenner pioneered vaccination is now saved

The humble hut where Dr Edward Jenner pioneered the first vaccinations against smallpox has been restored and removed from the Heritage at Risk Register. Funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund enabled repairs, improved access, and new ways to share Jenner’s story. The site, christened the ‘Temple of Vaccinia,’ is now secured for future generations alongside other saved heritage locations across England.

The restoration of the historic hut marks a significant victory for heritage preservation in Gloucestershire. After being added to the Heritage at Risk Register in 2025, the structure, known as the Temple of Vaccinia, has undergone comprehensive repairs funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. This work not only stabilized the building but also improved public access, allowing visitors to connect with the birthplace of modern immunology. The project involved skilled craftspeople and specialist advisers working alongside museum staff and volunteers. By securing this site, the museum ensures that future generations can learn about Dr Jenner’s groundbreaking contributions to public health. The removal from the risk register reflects a collective effort to protect architectural and scientific history. Alongside other saved sites across England, this restoration demonstrates the positive impact of community partnership in preserving places that shape national identity and understanding of medical progress.