Underbank Hall

SK29NE HUNSHELF UNDERBANK LANE (west side), Hunshelf 11/64 Underbank Hall GV II Large detached house. Early to mid C18 with earlier core. Deeply-coursed squared stone, stone slate roof. Four parallel gabled ranges, the left wing projecting to front and the third projecting at rear. Two storeys. Wings 2, 3 and 4 are identical with 2 bays of tall 12-pane sashes in raised surrounds. Wing 3 is set back slightly and is of 3 bays with shorter 12-pane sashes in raised surrounds. The doorway to the right of wing 3 has a moulded architrave with moulded cornice above which is a 3-panel plaque with 3 coats of arms. The left wing is similar but with 2 bays of 16-pane sashes in flush surrounds except ground-floor left which is a double-chamfered 2-light window. Hollow-chamfered gable copings on cut kneelers. Seven ashlar stacks with chamfered plinths and moulded cornices. Rear: the projecting wing has double-chamfered windows of 2, 3 and 4 lights. To the left are sash windows, as front, one of 30 lights. Alterations and additions to right. Left return retains two altered 2-light double-chamfered windows. Interior: C20 entrance vestibule with good 8-panel door and oak panelling in keeping with C18 oak panelling in the right room. This room has an oak screen above the later fireplace, possibly imported and dated 1594, consisting of two segmental arches with inlaid floral patterns, framed and separated by debased, fluted Ionic pilasters. The room to left of hall (formerly 2 rooms) has panelled walls with smaller panels at lower level, probably a C19 or C20 facsimile. Recorded owners of the hall and previous halls include the West family from 1480, the Fenton family from the C17 to 1839, and then the de Wend family. In 1959 the hall was sold to the British Steel Corporation (B.S.C. guide brochure).

Listing NGR: SK2558499652