Great Britain is a land steeped in history, where the past often meets the present in fascinating ways. Thanks to the incredible efforts of the Then & Now GB Facebook page, we can now glimpse the transformation of streets, landmarks, and everyday life through a captivating collection of “then and now” photographs.
These side-by-side comparisons take us on a journey through time, showcasing how much—or how little—has changed over the years. From iconic landmarks to quaint village streets, these images beautifully capture the essence of Great Britain’s evolution while preserving its timeless charm.
Each photo not only highlights architectural and cultural changes but also offers a moment to reflect on the stories and memories these places hold. It’s a celebration of Great Britain’s rich heritage and an invitation to appreciate its present-day splendor.
Harlaxton Manor, Lincolnshire is a masterpiece of 19th century architecture that hasn’t changed since its construction.
It was built in the 1830s by a wealthy landowner, it features an eccentric mix of Elizabethan, Jacobean, and Baroque styles.
The Jew’s House, Lincoln is one of the earliest extant town houses in the country.
Constructed around 1170 for the thriving Jewish community, it’s one of five surviving Medieval Jewish houses in England.
A detailed painting from 1850 of Winchester Palace ruins in London, compared to its appearance today.
It was once a 12th century bishop’s palace that served as the London townhouse of the Bishops of Winchester – the palace was mostly destroyed by fire in 1814.
Castle Fraser in Scotland drawn in 1830, compared to its same appearance today.
The castle was built in the 16th century by the Fraser’s, an influential family in Scotland.
St Bartholomew’s Gatehouse, London was built in 1595 and at some point, bricked over.
A bomb during WW1 knocked off some bricks revealing its Tudor half-timbered facade, it was restored to how it looks today.
Pulls Ferry, built in the 1400s in Norwich, was originally a watergate for transporting stone to build Norwich Cathedral.
Monks created a canal beneath the arch to allow Norman boats to deliver materials from Caen, the adjoining ferry house dates to 1647.
Staithes, a picturesque fishing village in North Yorkshire, virtually hasn’t changed in 130 years.
Dating back to the 14th century, it’s known for its steep streets, historic cottages and stunning coastal views.
Byworth, a stunningly well-preserved hamlet in West Sussex, pictured then and now.
Very little has changed to these picturesque cottages over the years.
St Pancras Railway Station in London is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering and Gothic Revival architecture.
When opened in the 1860s, it had the world’s largest single-span roof, stretching 243 feet wide.
Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol was designed for light horse drawn traffic, but today, it still meets the demands of 12,000 modern vehicles crossing it every day.
An engineering masterpiece.
