Howard'S House

TL 0847 CARDINGTON CHURCH LANE

9/14 Howard's House 7.5.52

GV II*

House. C18, with C19 and C20 additions. Main block of colour washed rough cast over brick, later blocks of red brick with only front elevations roughcast rendered. Clay tile roof. Double-pile plan of 2 storeys and attics, roof hipped to front but double-gabled to rear. C19 2 storey and attics block to rear, C2U single-storey flat-roofed additions to side. Front: symmetrical facade. Central doorway has 6 panel door, top 2 pairs fielded, rectangular fanlight, moulded door surround, Roman Doric half pilasters, pulvinated frieze, and cornice. Flanked by 3-light casements. First floor has 2 similar casements flanking 2-light casement. 3 hipped dormers with 3- light casements. All windows have leaded lights. Central ridge stack of 4 diagonal flues, rebuilt C20 to slightly less than original height. C18 wrought iron railings and gate to front garden. Rear: irregular elevation with variety of sash windows. Doorway: Roman Doric half-columns and entablature, cut by C19 block to R; smaller Doric pilasters and round-headed arch within, containing semi-circular fanlight and part glazed double doors. Above doorway is round-headed sash window in moulded surround with keystone. Above this is balustraded parapet running between 2 gables. Red brick gable end stack to LH gable, again with 3 rebuilt diagonal flues. Interior: retains some original C18 features, including panelling, staircase and chimney pieces. Residence c1760-1790 of John Howard (1726-1790) philanthropist and prison reformer. (Bedfordshire Record Office, various documents, including W3309 and CRT 180/155).

Listing NGR: TL0864047985