Kingsleigh House was built in the 1790's and stands on the site of an old coaching inn known as The Bull which stood from 1560 to 1791. It is certain that bull baiting took place in the garden at the rear of the property.

A large development at the rear comprising a doctor's surgery, chemist shop, an employment agency, Rayleigh Careers Centre and offices was completed in 1990-91. Known as Burley House, it is approached through an archway into a pleasing courtyard from the High Street.

Next door on the south side of Kingsleigh House stood the Golden Lion Hotel which was demolished in 1950. The La Romantica restaurant property dates back to the 17th Century or earlier. The Squires Coffee Shop property dates back to the 16th Century.