King Edward VI Almshouses, Central Block and Chapel

The King Edward VI Almshouses comprise a central block and chapel, built in 1834. Constructed from red brick with decorative dressings and a slate roof, the building follows a long “E” shape plan. The south front features an eleven-window range on either side of a central gabled chapel with gabled east and west end cross-wings. The composition is characterised by parapets with moulded copings and string courses, corner buttresses topped with finials (some now missing), and a plinth. The chapel’s prominent window is a large two-centred arch with simple Perpendicular tracery, while below is a four-centred arched doorway with a label and leaf-decorated spandrels, housing a modern two-leaf door, glazed with a pattern of two-by-five panes. Lancet windows flank the doorway with splayed sills and glazing bars. Projecting corners are diagonally buttressed, with finials above, and feature a parapet and string. A Tudor royal arms plaque adorns the gable. The ranges on either side have windows grouped in sections of two, three, three, and three, with tall stacks positioned between them. Originally, the windows were paired horizontal sliding sashes (some now replaced with similar casements), each incorporating a pattern of four-by-four panes set within a chamfered frame, moulded frames, and a central mullion. Brickwork is chamfered, with a splayed composition sill and a cast moulded label. Stacks have four diagonally-set shafts linked at the top by a projecting stone plate. A cast shield of Saffron Walden is visible above a ground-floor window in the first bay to the west of the chapel. The east and west elevations mirror a similar design, with principal ranges projecting through the cross-wings and featuring diagonal buttressing. The east end’s pinnacles remain, largely intact, but those on the west end are now missing. The north rear elevation has a simplified chapel, projecting through the main range, with a large three-light Perpendicular traceried window with diamond lattice glazing; it lacks buttresses and a parapet. A boarded door provides access to the cellar. The east and west ranges feature a complex pattern of scattered windows, plain with slightly segmental heads and tiled splayed sills; many now have replacement metal casement frames. Three doorways are located on each range, leading to access lobbies and stairways. Original doors feature paired lower flush panels, with upper glazing consisting of two horizontal glazing bars. Identical doors are present in each end cross-wing.