National Westminster Bank

The National Westminster Bank, located at 8 Bennett's Hill in the City Centre, is a Grade II* listed building that was originally the National Provincial Bank. It was rebuilt in 1869 by architect John Gibson, replacing the original structure designed by C. R. Cockerell in 1855. The building is constructed of stone and features two storeys, which are highlighted by giant Corinthian pilasters. The façade consists of five bays, with a recessed semi-domed entrance on the corner flanked by giant Corinthian columns. There are an additional eight bays on the return along Waterloo Street, where the entrances to Nos 11 and 12 Waterloo Street are located. The ground floor windows are tall and arched, set within panels adorned with a guilloche-like ornament. The first floor features pairs of windows in each bay, and there is an elaborate eaves cornice. The entrance boasts a coffered ceiling and sculptured panels created by S. F. Lynn in 1869, along with a shield of arms and flanking figures on the skyline. Inside, the banking hall is notable for its richly coffered ceiling and pairs of fluted Corinthian columns running down the center. The building occupies an important corner site.