You can find thousands of buildings with national significance across the UK.
Some of these buildings are historical landmarks with fascinating stories behind them. Others are considered unique in their architectural design.
When buildings get ‘listed’, they will be assigned a grade. Grade I and Grade II are the most well-known examples.
We’ve explained the difference between these two ratings below.
What is a listed building?
A building is listed because it has historical or architectural significance. There are roughly 370,000 listed buildings in the UK. Many – but not all – are period properties.
If a building is listed, it restricts the alterations the owner can make. They will need to get permission in almost all cases.
Some grades of listing are classed as holding more significance than others.
Who decides whether a building is listed or not?
The grade of a listed building is decided by the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). And the process is administered by Historic England.
What is a Grade I listed building?
Grade I listed buildings are classed as having major national significance.
Around 2.5% of all listed buildings in the UK fall under this category.
A Grade I listed building needs approval for even the smallest of alterations. This could involve:
- Adding an extra beam
- Removing a window
- Putting in a new door.
It is the highest-rated category of listed buildings and thus comes with scrutiny from local authorities.
These are huge tourist attractions with major significance to the local economy. People will thus be extra sensitive about even the smallest of changes.
Famous Grade I listed buildings
Many of the most famous buildings in the UK fall under this category, including:
- Buckingham Palace, London
- Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool
- Blackpool Tower, Blackpool
- York Minster, York
- Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol
What is a Grade II listed building?
A Grade II listed building is two steps down from Grade I.
Approximately 92% of listed buildings are Grade II, making them the most common type of listed building in the UK.
You need permission to change the appearance of a Grade II listed building.
The scrutiny on these changes is likely to be far less intense than it is for Grade I buildings. Local authorities usually often won’t mind you adding new features or removing old ones, as long as you get it approved first.
Famous Grade II buildings
There are a few famous Grade II listed buildings in the UK. Just a few examples include:
- Abbey Road Studios, London
- Swansea Palace Theatre, Swansea
- Crucible Theatre, Sheffield
- Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool
- Kursaal, Southend.
Most Grade II buildings are not well-known outside of their local area
The vast majority of Grade II listed buildings are not famous, however.
They are one of the hundreds of thousands of listed buildings across the country, perhaps known by people within the local community, but not much further.
Local churches, theatres, music halls, or bridges are common examples.
Are there any other grades of listed building?
Yes, there is one other grade of listing. This sits in between Grade I and Grade II. This is a Grade II* listed building.
These buildings are defined as ‘particularly important buildings of more than special interest’.
Only 5.8% of listed buildings fall into this category. It is thus more prestigious than Grade II, but less prestigious than Grade 1.
Famous Grade II* listed buildings
Famous examples include:
- Battersea Power Station
- Cleveland Bridge
- Middlesbrough Transporter Bridge.
Can a building change between Grade I and Grade II?
Yes, the grade of a listed building can be changed. Remember that there’s one category between Grade I and Grade II, known as Grade II*.
Thus, a listed building will likely transition into this category, rather than making two jumps in one go.
Buying a listed building
Buying a Grade I listed building is rare, although it has been known to happen.
These properties are of enormous public interest and are thus usually publicly owned. You should speak to a qualified legal expert to take your first steps on this journey.
Buying a Grade II* or Grade II listed building is far more common. You’ll be allowed to purchase the property as normal.
But you’ll need to adhere to all the local authorities’ wishes about amendments to that house moving forward. You’re legally obligated to adhere to their rulings on making specific changes.
Listed buildings are often far more valuable. This is because they tend to look unique, with great features inside. And they hold their value well during economic downturns.
Are listed building grades different in Scotland and Northern Ireland?
Yes. These countries usually have different categories for listed buildings.
This tends to start at ‘A’ and work down to ‘C’ or ‘B’.
You should speak to the local authority or visit the Historic England website for more guidance on this.
How to find out if my building is listed?
The Historic England website holds the official National Heritage List.
You can search for your building and find out if it’s listed. You can use a keyword, postcode, or list entry number.
You’ll often be aware of a building’s listing when buying it.
