Now in a dilapidated state, the Residency was once an extensive and beautiful building complex. Built by the Nawab of Avadh for the British Resident in 1780-1800, it was the last out-post of English resistance that faced heavy cannon fire and onslaughts during 1857 War of Independence. The main building crowns a high ground overlooking Gomti River and has wide verandah, a guard tower and underground rooms. All around are well maintained terraced lawns and gardens. Flood-lit during night, a symbol of the English ego, which was severely jolted after the 1857 uprising, Residency is preserved as it was.