In this post, we take you walking off the beaten path to discover some of Slough's most unusual and little-known places, perfect for locals and visitors who love a mix of history, mystery, and character.

1. The Ostrich Inn, Colnbrook High Street – A Medieval Gem

If you're searching for history, spooky stories, and really good pies, start with The Ostrich Inn on Colnbrook High Street.

• Dating back to 1106, it’s considered England’s third oldest inn, originally built as a hospice for travellers on the old Bath-to-London route.
• Its timber-framed beams, crooked stairs, old fireplaces, and cobbled courtyard give it a truly historic feel.
• Local legend tells of landlord Jarman, who allegedly tipped wealthy guests from a trap-bed into boiling cauldrons—over 60 murders before he was caught and hanged in the 17th century.
• Visitors and staff still report ghostly footsteps, cold touches, and whispers in the cellar.
• One reviewer called it a “real gem”—savouring meat pies by the fire and enjoying friendly staff in a building that feels ancient and welcoming.

It’s a must-visit for anyone curious to step into Slough’s darker medieval lore. Ask to see Room Eleven, the famous “tipping bed” room.

2. St Laurence’s Church, Upton-cum-Chalvey – Slough’s Oldest Building

St Laurence’s Church is believed to be the oldest surviving building in the borough.

• Parts of the church date back to the 12th century, including the original Norman tower and stonework.
• You’ll spot puddingstone walls and an ancient baptism font that has witnessed centuries of local history.
• The church remains active, with peaceful interiors blending old and new.
• Visitors describe it as serene, with a sense of time standing still.

Whether for a quiet moment or a heritage stroll, St Laurence’s offers a glimpse into medieval Slough.

3. Montem Mound – Ancient Earthwork with Mystery

On Montem Lane lies Montem Mound, a turf-covered earthwork over 1,500 years old.

• Once thought to be a Norman motte-and-bailey fort, it is more likely Anglo-Saxon, perhaps used for ceremonies or gatherings.
• From the 1500s to the 1840s, Eton College students held the annual “Montem Festival” here, marching to the mound to collect donations.
• Today, it’s a quiet rise amid suburban streets, yet still feels like stepping into pre-Saxon Britain.

Bring a picnic and imagine the lives of people who gathered here centuries ago.

4. Slough Museum on the Trading Estate – Unexpected & Free

Slough’s official local museum now sits inside the Trading Estate, giving it a unique backdrop.

• It houses over 10,000 objects and photographs showing Slough’s rise from a small village to an industrial hub.
• Learn how the Trading Estate became the largest single-owner industrial estate in Europe.
• See the story of Mars—yes, the Mars Bar was invented in Slough.
• Admission is free, making it ideal for families, history lovers, and curious visitors.

5. Ghostly Rumours & Underground Tunnels

Slough isn’t without its share of mysteries. Locals whisper of abandoned railway tunnels and old wartime bunkers hidden beneath today’s streets.

• Some believe tunnels exist under what is now Queensmere Centre, possibly linked to old railway lines or WW2 air-raid shelters.
• Old sites near Farnham Road, including the former Labour Exchange, are rumoured to hide forgotten underground structures.

These areas aren’t open to the public but remain part of Slough’s urban legend—fuel for ghost walks and late-night storytelling.

6. Other Historic Churches Worth Exploring

Beyond St Laurence’s, Slough is home to more churches with rich heritage:

St Mary’s Parish Church, Upton-cum-Chalvey

• Built between 1876–78 with funding partly from Queen Victoria.
• Features Gothic Revival architecture and a Grade II* listing.
• Home to a pipe organ with 2,400 pipes, still used in concerts today.

St Ethelbert’s Church

• A Roman Catholic Gothic Revival church built 1908–1910 by Benedict Williamson.
• Grade II-listed, with striking stained-glass and a richly decorated interior.

Where to Go & Tips for a Day Out

Here’s a suggested itinerary for exploring Slough’s offbeat gems:

1. Start in Colnbrook at The Ostrich Inn, then wander by The Star & Garter for historic architecture.
2. Visit St Thomas’s Church and Quiet Garden for reflection.
3. Explore Slough Museum inside the Trading Estate.
4. Head to Montem Mound for fresh air and ancient history.
5. Finish in Upton-cum-Chalvey at St Laurence’s, St Mary’s, or St Ethelbert’s.

Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and a notebook—these places beg to be explored slowly.

Why It Matters

Slough is more than its trading estate or motorway links. These offbeat corners reveal:

• A medieval coaching village where kings (and infamous innkeepers) made history.
• Places of worship that survived centuries of change.
• Ancient mounds and routes that connect to forgotten centuries.
• Legends of tunnels and spirits that keep mystery alive.

History doesn’t only live in castles or museums—it’s right here, under streets and behind pub beams.

If you’re in Slough and crave more than shopping centres or restaurants, give these hidden corners a try. They’re full of character, story, and surprise.

SloughBlog.com will keep uncovering the town’s hidden sides. Would you like us to create walking guides, kid-friendly versions, or photo tours next?