A listed building is a building of special architectural or historic interest that is considered important enough to protect.

Most people will be familiar with listed houses and churches, but a great variety of other buildings and structures can be protected through listing, including barns, milestones, bridges and railway stations. 

You can find out which buildings are listed on the Historic England website.

Find listed buildings  

Carrying out work on a listed building

If you want to carry out work on a listed building in a way that affects its character, you must first apply for listed building consent. You may also need separate planning permission and building regulations approval.

It is a criminal offence to alter, extend or demolish a listed building without consent, and the penalties can be heavy.

For more information, and to apply for consent, please see our guide to listed buildings.