Often, Slough’s history is regarded far too underwhelmingly considering the town’s existence can be officially recorded all the way back to 1196. After all, there are not many places that can boast findings of a woolly mammoth’s tooth or of Roman coins. But scattered throughout the whole town are numerous physical reminders of our past. And these quieter, deeper stories can be traced back to the very buildings we pass by daily or even reside in.
St Laurence Church in Upton, for example, has snagged the title of being the oldest building in Slough at 900 years old. With its origins dating back to the 12th century, it offers a rare glimpse of Slough’s earliest days as a rural settlement. It’s especially enriching to know the church has tried to conserve certain historical elements from the Normans, such as the ancient baptismal font and a piscina. Even a 13th century Italian allegorical image of the Christian’s Holy Trinity has survived!
In fact, it seems much of Upton has immense historical significance all the way from 1325, with parts of Upton Court being built, all the way to 1834 where developments of Upton Park began. There have even been spooky tales of a ghost walking in the grounds!
Nearby, is an Grade-I Listed building from the 17th century, Langley St Mary’s Church which also houses the Kedermister Library. Founded by Sir John Kedermister in the early 1600s, it still houses 300 theological books in its ornately decorated room. The Missale Romanum, published in 1485, is the oldest book in its current collection.
On that same road stands the Kedermister Almshouses, lying south of the church. Dating back to 1617, these buildings were expressions of piety and generosity as they were established by churches to provide accommodation for the poor or elderly. And after a refurbishment back in 2014, they remain open as testament to Slough’s expansive history.
Finally, it would be remiss not to mention the Grade-I listed Baylis House. It is designed in the likeness of the plain Dutch style, popularised in England after the post-war restoration of the English monarchy in 1660. Although little is known of the original building, the site is kept historically relevant through its associations to figures like Gregory Hascard and Henry Godolphin, whose ownership led to a plethora of renovations and expansions.
Interestingly, it had once been the headquarters of Air Raid Precautions during the 1920s and 30s. But it’s safe to say most people now definitely visit the site for its stunning, picturesque park and gardens! Regardless, its survival attests to Slough’s commitment to preserving its architectural heritage.
There’s so many buildings within Slough that echo this connection to the past, providing a balance to the town’s modern skyline. So, next time you’re taking a stroll and notice a particular building looks rather old-fashioned, be sure to check it out!
