Paston Great Barn, Medieval thatched barn in Paston, England
Paston Great Barn is a stone and flint structure stretching about 70 meters in length, featuring symmetrical double doors, buttresses, and ventilation slits along its walls. The building displays the typical construction of large agricultural storage structures from its period.
The structure was built in 1581 by Sir William Paston III and originally served as a grain storage facility for the family's agricultural operations. Three Victorian-era wings were added later to accommodate livestock and expand its usefulness.
The inscription above the southern door reads 'THE BILDING OF THIS BEARNE IS Bl SIR W PASTON KNIGHTE', marking its connection to local nobility. The structure reflects how important agricultural buildings were to the everyday life and identity of the community.
Access is strictly limited as the building has operated under conservation protocols since 1999 to protect bat species living inside. It is advisable to check in advance what access might be available and what special rules you need to follow.
Four bat species make their home in the timber lintels and interior spaces, including the rare barbastelle bat that many visitors overlook. This unexpected wildlife presence has transformed the structure's modern purpose from storage to species protection.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
