26, High Street

No 26 High Street is a Grade II* listed building that was originally a College or Chantry House, founded under the will of Bartholomew, Lord Bouchier in 1411. Only a small part of the original structure remains, with a 19th-century addition to the street front and a 16th-century enlargement on the north side. The original building features a very fine and elaborate roof construction that is visible on the first floor. This includes parts of an original hammer beam roof, one of which has a terminal carved angel, along with sections of an embattled cornice with traceried panels. The roof also has side purlins and a ridge piece, with collar arches that are spur tied. The 16th-century upper storey projects on the south-west side, and there are some moulded ceiling beams. The building is two storeys high, timber-framed, and plastered, topped with a red plain tile roof. While the exterior has little architectural value, the remaining parts of the interior are rich in detail.