Lower Down Farmhouse

Lower Down Farmhouse is a farmhouse that likely dates back to the 16th century, with significant later alterations and additions. It is constructed of limestone rubble, with some exposed timber framing, and features slate roofs. The building is aligned east-west and has a southern aspect. It appears to have a traditional plan, with a 'hall' and lower end under one roof, and a through-passage that is approached by a red brick lean-to outshut, with a side stack on the north side. There is a 'solar' cross-wing to the west that has been doubled in depth and extended, probably in the late 18th century.

The farmhouse is two storeys high and consists of two parts facing the farmyard. The left-hand part has a catslide outshut to the left of centre and a hall stack that projects to the right of centre, featuring a brick shaft. The fenestration is irregular, with two windows on the first floor and one on the ground floor, and there is an irregular straight-joint between the two parts. The right-hand part is also two storeys high and has a cellar. It has a parallel ridge roof with hips to the left and mid-19th century fenestration, including three-light casements with two on each floor. There is evidence of a blocked opening to the left of centre, and a central six flush-panelled door with a three-light overlight and a simple bracketed hood.

On the south front, there are three windows in the west wing, featuring mid-19th century casements with eight-pane sashes to the left and a central doorway. The gable end has been rebuilt in squared and coursed rubble, with a coped parapet that is flat across the valley. Traces of close studding can be seen on the first floor of the south-east corner. The 'hall' range has three windows, and there is a ledged through-passage door at the right-hand end.

The interior has been much altered, but the traditional plan can still be reconstructed, featuring a wide newel stair located to the north-east of the 'solar' through-passage. The 'solar' through-passage is likely from around 1800 and includes two service rooms.