Listed Buildings



A "Listed Building" is a building which has been recognised formally for its “special architectural or historic interest”.

There are almost 2,500 listed buildings on the Isle of Wight with a rich variety of architectural styles ranging from the simple vernacular cottages (built from local materials) to grand Regency town houses and not forgetting the Victorian splendour. Structures such as bridges, memorials, telephone kiosks and gravestones are also included under the term listed buildings as are buildings or structures within the curtilage of a listed building.
Buildings are listed for a number of different reasons including for their:
  • Architectural Interest
  • Historic Interest
  • Close Historical Associations with nationally important people /events;
  • Group Value ( e.g. terraces)
Grading of Listed Buildings
Listed buildings are graded to show their importance: 
  • Grade I buildings are those of exceptional interest.
  • Grade II* are particularly important buildings of more than special interest.
  • Grade II are of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve them. Most listed buildings on the island fall into this grade, and range from large public buildings to small cottages and some telephone kiosks).
All grades are nationally important and are therefore equally protected.

Listed Building Database

To find out if a building is listed or the grade of a listed building, you can search the Listed Building Database. Alternatively you can search the National Heritage List managed by English Heritage or the Images of England Website which contains photographs of many of the Island’s listed buildings.
For general information about listed buildings visit either the Frequently Asked Questions tab or download more detailed information leaflets from the Advice and Guidance section which can be found on the front page.
If after reading the information provided you are still unsure please contact the Conservation and Design Team on 01983 823552 before you carry out any works to a listed building.



Page last updated on: 12/09/2011