As local Scaffolders to Royston, we’ve been fortunate to work up close on a lot of historic buildings with different architecture in and around Royston. Royston is a small town with a lot of history and wonderful architecture.
The town holds a fascinating royal legacy – once a favourite retreat for King James I, whose presence shaped much of the local history and left its mark on some of our most cherished landmarks. Walking through Royston and you’ll spot blue plaques on buildings, each one revealing a snippet of our town’s connection to royalty, historic figures or notable events.
Royston is a wonderful blend of different historical periods. You don’t have to look far to see evidence of its rich past. Walking from the town centre outwards, you can spot everything from ancient churches to charming Georgian townhouses and medieval flint to elegant Victorian brickwork. This variety is what gives our town its unique and charming feel.
Royston’s Architectural Styles
One of the things that makes Royston so compelling is the remarkable range of architectural styles you can find here. Medieval flint and stone structures stand shoulder-to-shoulder with sumptuous Georgian facades, while Victorian brickwork brings a sense of gravitas to the heart of town.
There are timber-framed cottages from the Tudor era, grand houses in Georgian symmetry and proportion and buildings adorned with Victorian decorative flourishes. Even some subtle Art Deco touches can be found in certain commercial properties. Each style reflects a chapter of Royston’s story, shaped by the changing tastes, technologies and fortunes of the town over time.
Iconic Buildings and Their Stories
Here are some of the key buildings that define our town’s architectural landscape:
St John the Baptist Church
No tour of Royston’s architecture would be complete without mentioning St John the Baptist Church. Its imposing flint tower is a landmark visible from miles around. Originally part of an Augustinian priory founded in the 12th century, the church has been a central point of town life for nearly 900 years. Its mix of architectural styles, from Norman fragments to Victorian restorations, tells a story of constant adaptation and community use.
Now fully restored and open again after a recent tragic fire, the intricate stonework, beautiful stained-glass windows and soaring roof can be seen up close once again.
The Old Palace
You could easily walk past this one. Tucked away is one of Royston’s most significant royal connections: the Old Palace. This was a private residence for King James I, who loved hunting on the nearby heath. Built in the early 17th century, the remaining sections of the palace showcase classic Jacobean architecture. The distinctive brickwork and timber frames are a direct link to a time when Royston was a favourite retreat for the King.
Royston Town Hall
A more recent but equally important landmark is Royston Town Hall. Its Victorian design, completed in the 1880s, reflects the town’s growing prosperity during that era. The distinctive clock tower and ornamental brickwork make it a standout building on Melbourn Street. It has served various community functions over the years and remains a hub of local activity.
The Manor House
Another fascinating site is the Manor House on Melbourn Street, a Grade II listed building with a rich and varied history. Believed to date back to the 16th century, it has been everything from a private residence to a school (and now a Wetherspoons!). Its elegant Georgian façade, added later, hides a much older timber-framed structure within.
The Bull Inn
Right in the heart of Royston stands The Bull Inn, a beloved coaching inn that dates back to the 16th century. With its distinctive timber-framed façade and welcoming frontage on High Street, The Bull Inn is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks. Historically, it played a vital role as a stop for travellers and mail coaches journeying along the Great North Road, making it an essential hub for communication and hospitality in centuries past.
Inside, you’ll find original beams and quirky features that give a glimpse into its storied history. The Bull Inn not only showcases classic English inn architecture – with its low ceilings, exposed woodwork, and cosy snugs – but continues to be a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, binding community life to its historic walls.
Royston Cave
While not a building in the traditional sense, Royston Cave is one of the town’s most unique historic sites. Discovered in 1742, this man-made underground chamber features intricate carvings believed to date from the medieval period. Its purpose remains a mystery, but it continues to capture the imagination of all who visit.
So, the next time you take a walk through town, take a moment to look up and appreciate the incredible architectural heritage around us. It’s a sign of a community that values its past and cherishes the unique character that makes Royston home.
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