Astbury Rectory

Astbury Rectory is a mid-18th century rectory, probably built between 1757 and 1759, and altered by William Baker of Highfields. The building is constructed of red Flemish bond brick with ashlar dressings and a slate roof. It is two storeys with an attic and basement.

The front elevation comprises five bays arranged symmetrically, with a later crescent wing to the left and the remains of a similar wing on the right. The basement is of ashlar with porthole windows. The central three bays project, with an ashlar door surround of Venetian form, featuring double doors flanked by side lights. Above the door is an open pediment supported on brackets. Ground floor windows are sash windows with 3 x 4 panes, wedge lintels, and projecting keystones. The first floor windows are similarly detailed. An ashlar band runs above the ground floor windows, supporting the first floor windows. The attic windows are sash windows with 3 x 2 panes, wedge lintels, and projecting keystones. A dentilled cornice sits above the attic, and a central pedimental gable rises above the central three bays, with an ashlar surround and ball finials to the corners and apex. The hipped roof on the left side has two chimney stacks joined by an arch; a similar arrangement existed on the right side, of which only one stack remains.

The rear elevation has five bays symmetrically arranged featuring an ashlar plinth and an ashlar band at sill level. The ground floor windows are sash windows with 3 x 4 panes and wedge lintels with projecting keystones. The first floor windows are similar. The attic matches the front in detailing. A moulded cornice, with dentils, tops the wall, and ball finials mark the corners.

William Baker’s notebook references alterations to the building, though the overall design strongly recalls his work at Hankelow Hall.