Across the UK, there are an array of magnificent buildings, all with spectacular, recognisable roofs. From the Millennium Dome to John Rylands Library, we have picked several of the most famous roofs in the UK, highlighting what makes them so iconic.
Kings Cross Station
Located alongside the also impressive St Pancras Station, Kings Cross Station is a truly stunning structure. Redeveloped by architects John McAslan and Partners in anticipation of the 2012 London Olympics, Kings Cross Station striking roof is the clear standout of the building. Consisting of a semi-circular vaulted roof, it is perhaps best appreciated from within to allow the entire space to be completely taken in.
The Eden Project
Attracting visitors from across the country and beyond, The Eden Project and its futuristic biodome roofs are a sight to behold nestled in the Cornish countryside, comfortably making them one of the UK’s most iconic roofs. Constructed with carefully chosen sustainable materials, the roof of The Eden Project is built with photovoltaic panels to provide electricity and beams made from Forest Stewardship Council certified Red Spruce.
Kensington Roof Gardens
Once open to the public but now private, Kensington Roof Gardens are a stunning outdoor space atop the roof of the former Derry & Toms building on Kensington High Street. Covering an area of 65,000 sq. ft, the Grade II listed gardens are home to over 100 trees and are divided into three unique themes – Spanish garden, Tudor garden and English water garden.
The Great Court of the British Museum
Loosely based on architect Norman Foster’s initial designs for the Berlin Reichstag, the Great Court of the British Museum’s stunning roof consists of a combination of steel and 3,212 unique panes of glass. The result of a competition with the aim to reveal hidden spaces, revise old spaces and create new ones, the roof of the Great Court of the British Museum manages to open up the area while still encompassing the structures within.
John Rylands Library
A neo-Gothic style Victorian building in the heart of Manchester, John Rylands Library is well-known for its eye-catching architecture that includes two stunning church-like towers and pitched roof. The library is also home to a popular rooftop terrace which boasts magnificent views over the city and a retractable roof, making it the ideal location all year round.
Millennium Dome
London is home to some of the most famous roofs in the UK, though none are perhaps quite as recognisable as the Millennium Dome, opened in 1999 to celebrate the new millennium. Consisting of a fabric roof, which gives the structure its unique appearance, the dome also features 12 bright yellow towers protruding out of the building and which help support the dome shape.
The UK’s Most Famous Roofs: Final Thoughts
Here at Roof Care (North Staffs) LTD, we are the experts when it comes to professional roofing services. We are an established roofing company in Stoke-on-Trent, Congleton and the wider Staffordshire and Cheshire regions. Whether we have inspired you with our list of the UK’s most iconic roofs or reminded you about some long-needed roof repairs, we can help. Get in touch by calling us on 01782 792809 or emailing roofcarenorthstaffs@gmail.com.
