Buildings That Remain

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A familiar building can connect generations. Shop signs and paintwork may change, but a roofline, a rounded window or an ornate corner can still bring a place instantly to mind. This first selection celebrates four historic buildings on Hessle Road and invites you to help tell the stories behind their facades.

Vauxhall Tavern - in existence by 1814

Historic England places this Grade II listed building in the late eighteenth or early nineteenth century and records its existence by 1814. Its buff-brick upper floors, hipped roof and shallow bow windows give it a distinctive appearance. That date establishes that it was already there, rather than naming an exact construction year. At 1 Hessle Road, the Vauxhall Tavern and cafe are part of our Hull Creative Skills and Heritage CIC project, alongside plans for the heritage centre and creative workshops.

Alexandra Hotel - built around 1895

Designed by Smith, Brodrick and Walker, the Grade II listed Alexandra combines red brick with a richly decorated tiled ground floor. Its large arched windows and elaborate corner are memorable features. Historic England also records details of its historic interior, including etched glass and a mahogany bar fitting. The illustration celebrates the building’s architectural character rather than documenting its condition on a particular day.

The Criterion - built around 1860

The Grade II listed Criterion stands on a rounded corner, with pale brick, contrasting red details and arched first-floor windows. Historic England dates it to around 1860, with later alterations. Look above the ground-floor frontage and the shape of the building becomes part of the story: the window arches, cornice and corner arrangement help make it recognisable.

Former Yorkshire Bank - dated 1901

At the corner of Eton Street, this Grade II listed building was designed by J. R. Whitaker of Leeds for the Yorkshire Penny Bank. Its 1901 date, terracotta decoration and steep corner roof distinguish it from the surrounding shopfronts. ‘Former Yorkshire Bank’ identifies its historic use; the feature does not suggest that it is still an operating bank.

Your part of the story

What does this building mean to you?

Send a photograph or memory, with the place, approximate date, names you know and permission to publish. A few sentences are enough to begin.

Email Info@hessleroad.com ↗Contribution guidance →

Sources & illustration notes

Painted impressions guided by photographs and heritage descriptions, not a measured survey or a current-condition record. Dates of construction differ from dates of listing. Historic names do not confirm present trading use. Alexandra photographic reference: Hull Live / Yahoo News; Criterion and former Yorkshire Bank: Hull City Council appraisal. The Vauxhall uses the photograph previously supplied for this project.