Some of the most stunning and well-protected historical architecture in Europe can be found in south east England, making it the perfect place for a touring trip.
From Gothic churches to Regency buildings, it’s time to pack up your caravan or motorhome and discover what’s on offer in quaint market towns close to London.
The folks at The Heritage Window Company have collated data from Historic England to definitively rank the towns and cities in south east England to inspire you with where to go.
Southend-on-Sea
With its 62 listed buildings, Southend-on-Sea is a gem when it comes to historic architecture, but there’s one place that shines brighter than everything else in the Essex town.
South Church Hall is an intriguing fusion of Gothic and Tudor architecture, having been constructed between 1321 and 1364, and later extended in 1560 in the differing style.
The hall was home to farming families until the 1920s, extensively restored in the 1930s and finally listed in 1951.
Luton
Luton is mainly characterised by 1930s architecture, including a town hall, churches, cinemas and private residences all dating from this period.
The oldest building in the town is St Mary’s Parish Church, which is 850 years old, although people have been worshipping at the site for millennia.
Visit the largest medieval church in Bedfordshire and admire its original features and tasteful renovations.
Colchester
Colchester is England’s oldest recorded town and has the biggest Norman keep in Europe, Colchester Castle, as well as 382 listed buildings.
In the late 14th century a gatehouse was added to St John’s Abbey, which features two storeys, a battlemented roof, turrets at each corner and large pinnacles.
Don’t miss the northern-facing side, which is beautifully decorated with flintwork panels and ornamented niches.
Canterbury
It’s not surprising that Canterbury has UNESCO World Heritage Site status since it boasts 1,880 listed buildings.
The Anglo-Roman design of the Church of St Martin makes it truly unique, as does its Saxon frontage, which was built with flint, Roman brick and rubble.
St Martin’s is the oldest parish church in England that is still used for its original purpose and there’s history everywhere you look.
Maidstone
Maidstone has been inhabited by Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings and Normans throughout its history, with all of them leaving their mark on the town.
The Archbishop’s Palace, Tithe Barn Stables and the College of All Saints are all examples of stunning architecture worth a visit.
Walking through the college’s gateway is particularly spectacular and has been described as like stepping back in time.
Photo credit: Unsplash/Hadyn Cutler
