Purkis Farm Barn

This is a timber-framed barn, originally dating from about 1600, with significant alterations and recladding in the 18th or 19th century. The original wattle and daub infill was replaced with corrugated iron sheeting. A brick plinth in Flemish bond is visible, with some areas rendered, and the western section features flint infill. The middle rail height was weatherboarded, and the upper section originally had lath and plaster infill, of which a portion remains on the western section of the southern wall. The barn has five bays, with a central entrance on the south elevation and an integral outshut built into the northern wall. The south and east walls have a middle rail, while the north and west walls have full-height studs. External tension braces are positioned at the angles. The main posts are characterised by swept jowls. The tie beams are slightly cambered and have wide, shallow braces bolted to them. The studs feature notches and opposing auger holes, and face halved scarf joints connect to the top plates. The roof is a clasped purlin roof with repaired hipped ends, and wind braces are present in the central and eastern bays. Many rafters and struts are made of rough-hewn or coppiced timber, likely including elm. The entrance occupies part of the central bay and incorporates a pair of divided doors on strap hinges, with mortice holes in the top plate suggesting earlier substantial door posts. The barn's design suggests it may not have been a conventional threshing barn, featuring a smaller than usual entrance and an unusual integral outshut. The studs increase in height towards the centre, leading to an uneven top plate and subsequent roof repairs. The barn is a well-preserved example from its time, with a remarkably intact frame and incorporating features intended to deal with construction problems and showing the sequence of infilling and cladding. It is likely contemporary with Purkis Farmhouse to the south. A largely 20th-century, three-bay cartlodge, incorporating 19th-century elements, is adjacent to the barn. To the south west stands an 18th or 19th-century barn, built of reused timbers, and an attached three-bay cartlodge, mostly 20th century in construction.