Ragley Hall, Stable Block

The stable block at Ragley Hall comprises two distinct parts, the south court dating to the mid-18th century and attributed to James Gibbs, and the north court and remodelled central block, circa 1780, attributed to James Wyatt. The south court is constructed of limestone ashlar, while the north court uses lias ashlar with limestone dressings. Both sections feature slate hipped roofs with moulded stone cornice parapets and stone chimneys.

The south court is rectangular, while the north court’s D-shape reflects the sloping site. The building is generally one storey with an attic. The south court’s central block consists of nine bays, with a three-bay central section mirroring the north court’s design. Flanking bays break forward, featuring sashes with square windows below and to the first floor, topped by a continuous pediment. A loggia of 14 Tuscan columns and an entablature runs along the length of the south range, the wall behind being plastered. Entrances are framed by Gibbs surrounds with alternating six-panelled doors and round-headed windows.

The north court’s symmetrical central block extends fifteen bays, arranged 3:3:3:3:3. It includes four doors with moulded stone doorcases that curve at the base and feature cornices. A round archway, also with a Gibbs surround, sits centrally, flanked by niches. Above, a first-floor features a series of round-headed windows (oeil de boeufs) and a central square window. A pediment sits above the central section, beneath an octagonal attic with oval openings and a shallow hipped roof. Side wings echo this design, while a semi-circular section of 21 bays incorporates a vaulted archway with Gibbs surround, and several round-arched openings, some containing coach houses, others with Diocletian windows.

The rear of the north court is dominated by a monumental three-bay stone archway with a panel above and flanking bays that project forward. Sashes with square windows below and oeil de boeufs above are present, and a substantial entablature with a triglyph frieze extends unbroken across the area. The remainder of the rear is constructed of brick.

Internally, many of the original stalls, hay racks, and other features remain. The central block retains mid-18th century carved doorcases. A vaulted room in the south range of the south court is decorated with Delft tiles.