The Ropewalk

The Ropewalk is a large industrial building dating from 1767, with the north half rebuilt between 1921 and 1922. It is constructed of red brick with a pantile roof and features shuttered windows. The building is exceptionally long, measuring approximately 4000 yards. Its original purpose was the manufacture of ropes, initially made from hemp and later from sisal, up to 44 inches in circumference.

The building comprises several sections. The right-hand extension has a moulded gable end facing the road, topped with a mansard roof covered in pantiles. This section has been partially rebuilt and features a brick dentil eaves cornice. The side elevation includes segmental-headed windows and a door, with two windows of three lights, modern glazing, and a round-headed radiating fanlight above the door. The road elevation is notable for a circular window positioned above a segmental-headed hoist door featuring a keystone, as well as two windows and one modern addition at ground level. A section dated 1807 (I.H. 1807) is linked to the main ropewalk by a more recent building. Internally, the building contains a queen post roof truss with a collar beam.