Clare College, The Buildings Surrounding The Fore And Principal Courts

Clare College consists of buildings surrounding the Fore and Principal Courts, constructed between 1638 and 1715 using Ketton and Weldon stone ashlar, with roofs made of Collyweston stone slate and lead. The construction was delayed by the Civil War, but the result is a remarkably unified and fine example of Early Renaissance architecture. The East Range and Main Gateway were built between 1638 and 1641, with alterations made in 1891. The South Range was completed between 1640 and 1642, featuring many 17th-century internal elements. The North Range, which includes the Hall and Library, was constructed from 1683 to 1693 by Robert Grumbold, with the Hall's interior altered between 1870 and 1872 by Sir Matthew Digby Wyatt. The Library's woodwork was crafted by James Essex in 1729. The West Range was built from 1640 to 1715, and the Master's Lodge was remodeled in 1815, retaining many features from the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The Chapel, designed by Sir James Burrough and James Essex, was built between 1763 and 1769.