Walls, Gates And Gate Piers To The Old Palace

The walls, gates, and gate piers to The Old Palace were built around 1719 to 1723, possibly by William and Francis Smith of Tettenhall, Staffordshire, for Bishop John Hough. They are constructed from pinkish-red brick in English Garden Wall bond, featuring a green and red sandstone plinth, ashlar copings, and finials. The cast-iron vehicular gates and timber pedestrian gate complement the structure. The wall runs along the street for approximately 40 metres, divided into two sections: about 35 metres leading to the gate, and then 5 metres to the east. It has a chamfered plinth and stands around 3 metres high, topped with double-chamfered copings. Gate piers are spaced approximately 5 metres apart and are taller, each with cornices. The gate piers are also topped with cornices and gadrooned vase finials. The double gates feature bars that form Gothick arches at the top and include dogbars, with two levels of rails in between. At the north-west end, there is an additional pedestrian entrance with a plank door in a round-arched opening, topped with double-chamfered coping, situated between two piers. The construction of the wall was likely part of the alterations and rebuilding scheme at The Old Palace for Bishop Hough during the same period. This structure is an important feature of the streetscape and contributes to the setting of The Old Palace.