[1] The style of Roses and Castles likely developed in the 1850s, approaching the decline of the British canal system and at a time when rail was proving a more popular method of transporting goods.

[1] One theory suggests that the amount of time families spent on the canals meant they were undereducated and became ostracised from society, and so the artwork became their "proud statement of separateness, self esteem, and a traditional way of doing things".

Items typically painted in the roses and castles style include internal furniture and fittings, as well as the boat's headlamp and water cans.

[11] An early description of the style referred to it as "the great teaboard school of art", a pejorative comparison to cheap tin trays popular at that time.

[4] Links have been drawn between roses and castles and German, Dutch and Asian folk art, as well as a striking resemblance of Romani Gypsy caravans.