National Westminster Bank

The National Westminster Bank, formerly known as the Priest's House, is a building with origins dating back to the 16th century, with significant work from the 17th century. It has undergone a sympathetic restoration between 1968 and 1970. The structure is timber-framed, set on an ashlar sandstone plinth, and features a Kerridge stone-slate roof with a stone ridge. It is a 2½ storey building with a nearly symmetrical five-bay front. The second and fourth bays are square projections that rise 2½ storeys, each topped with cross-gabled roofs for the dormers. The lower storey has 2-light casements with lozenge-shaped glazing, while the upper storey features 2-light windows with trefoil-shaped heads, some of which retain original lattice leaded glazing. The fronts and sides of the dormers display cross motifs in small panels and single lights. A balcony with flat shaped balusters and wainscotting is located between the second and fourth bays at the first floor, with similar elements used in the other bays. A tiny circular light is positioned at the center of the ridge. The right gable includes a tiebeam and collar truss, along with substantial buff sandstone extensions at the rear. The interior has been significantly altered for the bank's use, but two cast iron firebacks discovered during the restoration are displayed in the banking hall. One fireback is dated 1635 and features the arms of Charles I, while the other is of late 17th or 18th century Dutch origin. This building, which was replaced as the vicarage by the Manor House in 1708, has a distinctive and lopsided appearance and serves as a focal point for the village street.