4 OF THE BEST BUILDINGS IN ENGLAND

Architects in Stockport are no doubt aware of the shining examples of architecture in their home towns – but what are the best buildings to be found in England? Of course, it’s all rather subjective but we thought we’d feature some of our favourites here on the Andrew Wallace Architects blog.

Westminster Abbey

This stunning building has been around since the 960s and has been thoroughly spoiled by various monarchs over the years. It’s set the standard for architecture in the country for centuries and is an absolute must-see for any architecture student who feels the need for a bit of inspiration in their own work.

A&G Murray Mills, Ancoats, Manchester

A far cry from Westminster Abbey but a beautiful building in its own right. The mill says it all about the industrial revolution, really – it was built in 1801, with the company’s mills the first in the country to be powered by steam instead of waterwheels.

The Peckwater Quadrangle, Christ Church, Oxford

Dean Aldrich’s courtyard at Christ Church (built between 1707 and 1714) was constructed to play host to Oxford’s undergrads and is one of the first examples of how architects became suddenly obsessed with creating structures that stuck to the Roman methods of architecture. If you’ve not seen it yet, you must.

The Southbank Centre, London

A fine example of Brutalism, the Southbank Centre has as many fans as it does enemies. Oft referred to as a car park, the building is in fact very imposing and quite complex to look at. Plus there’s an amazing view of the Thames if you’re up in the Skylon restaurant, which is always a bonus.