The Esplanade and Tower Gardens in Skegness where Billy Butlin opened his first Butlin’s holiday camp in 1936 were protected in November 2017.
The Esplanade and Tower Gardens in Skegness where Billy Butlin opened his first Butlin’s holiday camp in 1936 were protected in November 2017. © Historic England Archive. DP219151.
The Esplanade and Tower Gardens in Skegness where Billy Butlin opened his first Butlin’s holiday camp in 1936 were protected in November 2017. © Historic England Archive. DP219151.

20 Intriguing Places Listed in 2017

Our pick of more than 1,000 historic sites added to the National Heritage List for England this year.

A gravestone to a war horse, a pair of acoustic mirrors carved into a cliff, and a stunning Japanese-style garden are among 20 sites listed this year that have made it onto Historic England’s guide to unusual places protected in 2017.

See our guide to 20 intriguing places listed in 2017

From a 1970s concrete student halls to a Neolithic trackway, the guide includes ancient and modern buildings and structures from across the country, all added to the List this year for their special architectural or historic importance.

Duncan Wilson, Historic England’s Chief Executive, said: “99% of people in England live within a mile of a listed building or place. While many places on the List are well-known and even world-famous, we also want people to understand and enjoy the extraordinary range of history on their own doorsteps. These sites are irreplaceable and showcase the wonderfully distinct and diverse character of England and its people across thousands of years.”

John Glen, Heritage Minister, said: “This list showcases the sheer breadth and diversity of our heritage. In the year we marked the 70th anniversary of the Listing scheme, I am pleased that so many important and interesting places have been protected for the nation."

Are any of these sites local to you?

We invite you to share your knowledge and pictures of listed buildings and sites, whether they've made this guide or not. By adding to the understanding of our wonderful historic places, we can all help to make sure that they are valued and protected now and for the future. Find out more about the Missing Pieces Project.