National Westminster Bank

The National Westminster Bank, built in 1876 by Gibson for the National Provincial Bank, is located in Durham and Framwellgate Market Place. This building is constructed of sandstone ashlar and features a Welsh slate roof, showcasing a Free Palladian style. It stands three storeys tall with seven bays. The three central bays project forward and are highlighted by Tuscan attached columns on the high ground floor and a giant Composite Order above, complete with an elaborate entablature.

Wide rusticated pilasters frame the additional bay on each side, while the simpler end bays are set back slightly. The fifth bay contains a tall six-panelled double door beneath a large overlight, and the right end bay features a lower six-panelled door and overlight leading to the Bank Chambers. The ground floor windows have been altered, with panelled aprons; the left window includes an inserted cash dispenser.

On the first floor, the three central bays have a pierced stone balustrade, and the upper windows are set within architraves, topped with bracketed pediments on the first floor and keyed segmental heads with bracketed sills on the second. The outer bays are more plain, featuring an eaves band and a low parapet. A low-pitched hipped roof covers the five central bays, adorned with tall corniced ashlar chimneys along the ridge and at the right end.