Centuries of History.
A New Story to Tell.
Discover the heritage behind Chequers, Royston.
Standing at 58 High Street, The Chequers is more than the home of a restaurant. It is part of Royston's architectural and social history, a building whose character reflects centuries of change in the town around it.
Today, Chequers continues its story as a contemporary Turkish restaurant and bar, bringing new life to a historic setting.
A Building With Tudor Origins
The story of The Chequers reaches back to the 16th century.
According to Historic England, the building dates principally from this period, with alterations made during the 17th century and in later years.
Its historic features include an old tiled roof, a red-brick base and a distinctive upper floor projecting beyond the level below.
Perhaps most intriguingly, the official heritage record also documents fragments of 15th-century wall painting in an upstairs room — a fascinating indication of the building's early history.
The Chequers was officially designated a Grade II listed building on 14 June 1964, recognising its special architectural and historic interest.
The story of The Chequers reaches back to the 16th century.
For generations, Royston was an important stopping point on routes through the region.
Historic inns provided places for travellers to rest, gather and refresh themselves along their journeys.
The Chequers was one of the inns that helped define this aspect of the town's character.
North Hertfordshire's conservation-area study identifies The Chequers and The Bull as significant reminders of Royston's former coaching industry.
Their presence at the upper end of the High Street remains an important connection to the town's past.
Part of Royston's Coaching Heritage
For generations, Royston was an important stopping point on routes through the region.
Historic inns provided places for travellers to rest, gather and refresh themselves along their journeys.
The Chequers was one of the inns that helped define this aspect of the town's character.
North Hertfordshire's conservation-area study identifies The Chequers and The Bull as significant reminders of Royston's former coaching industry.
Their presence at the upper end of the High Street remains an important connection to the town's past.
Preserving Character, Welcoming Change
Historic buildings are not simply reminders of the past. They can continue to be places where new memories are made.
At Chequers, the recent transformation has brought a contemporary restaurant and bar experience into a setting full of traditional charm.
The warm interiors, exposed dark timbers, welcoming dining spaces and carefully considered lighting create a contrast between historic character and modern hospitality.
It is this balance that makes Chequers distinctive: a building with centuries of history, ready to be enjoyed by a new generation.
Our Next Chapter
In 2026, Chequers entered a new chapter with a Turkish restaurant and bar at the heart of its offering.
The name remains. The heritage remains. The tradition of bringing people together continues.
What has changed is the experience within: vibrant Turkish cuisine, carefully prepared drinks and a fresh approach to hospitality.
We are proud to be part of Royston's High Street and look forward to being part of its story for years to come.
For more information about the building's officially recorded heritage, visit Historic England's National Heritage List for England, entry 1347653.