The Most Unusual Listed Buildings In The UK

Listed building status is about protecting the history, heritage and character of some of Britain’s most unique buildings, and as such people who own these buildings need to pay this heritage in mind when undertaking listed building restoration.

Whilst there is a certain vision of listed buildings as centuries-old manor houses and particularly iconic buildings, there are some buildings with a protected status that are more unusual, unique and in some cases controversial.

Here are some of the most unusual listed buildings in the UK.

Preston Bus Station

Arguably the most controversial listed building in the history of English Heritage, this Grade II listed large, swooping brutalist celebration of concrete is seen as either a fascinating part of a unique city or a complete eyesore. These two opinions were often for the same reasons.

What makes the story of Preston Bus Station so special is that it had repeatedly been scheduled for demolition by Preston Borough (and later City) Council, but thanks to local campaigns to save it eventually was awarded listed status in 2013.

The Red Hill Esso Canopies

From brutalism to space-age modernism, a petrol station in Leicestershire was filled with fascinating touches that evoked a bygone, forward-thinking age, with the iconic circular canopies having been designed by famed architect Elliot Noyes.

Saltdean Lido

One of the most innovative examples of both an outdoor swimming pool and an art deco building in general in the UK, the Saltdean Lido had a long process of restoration and eventual reopening.

It was originally set to become another Butlins site until local complaints stopped the plan, and first reopened in 1998 after then Sports Minister Tony Banks helped to organise private and public sector investment.

It is also a rare case of a listed building’s status increasing from Grade II to Grade II* in 2011, and after a community interest group took ownership of the building it finally reopened for good in 2017.