Horham Hall

1. THAXTED

Horham Hall

TL 52NE: 3/1 7.2.52

I

1. Originally built circa 1470, as a timber framed house, extended and partially rebuilt in red brick by John Cutte in the early C16. Extensive restoration in mid C19. Red plain tile roofs, with C19 crenellated parapets, and early C16 stepped gables. 2 storeys. Originally an H plan, the early C16 house was quadrangular with gate house. Windows are stone and plastered brick. East elevation has 2 storeyed porch, with four centred outer archway of 2 hollow chamfered arches with label. Inner doorway has moulded jambs and four centred arch. The great Oriel to the hall is semi-octagonal with trefoiled lights, surmounted by quatrefoil square head. The north wing is linked by an angled passageway, with C19 windows. The south wing has a 2 storey bay window with 3 facing lights with four centred heads. North elevation has large square staircase tower, with C19 parapet and original doorcase on east side. Original windows extensively restored C19. West side is extensively restored in C19, with large early C16 chimney stack, with crow stepped capping, rectangular base, 2 octagonal and one diagonal shaft. South elevation has C17 kitchen range set at an angle and C16 chimney stack, with 3 octagonal shafts, linked by oversailing caps. Centre shaft has zig-zag roll ornament. The hall roof has a hexagonal timber lantern, with a four centred light in each face. Internally are many original details. C16 stained glass. Original screen to passage, with 2 doorways with four centred arches in square heads, and pierced spandrels. Original clunch fireplaces survive in north wing. Solid oak treads to lower part of staircase. South wing has some of the late C15 timber framing exposed. Originally partly jettied. C16 fireplace and door details. C16 wall painting is said to survive behind c19 panelling. Late C16 stair- case, with square newels with guilloche ornament and moulded tops, and turned balusters Kitchen is still of original 2 storey height. First floor has early C16 fireplaces, doors etc. Ceiling to hail and first floor south wing are barrel vaulted and. early 016. South wing has fine late C15 combined crown post and framed side purlin roof. The tie beams are arch braced, as are the side purlins. The crown posts are four armed with diagonal shafts, moulded bases and capitals. The site is moated and parts of the moat house late C15 and early C16 brick revetments. In recent times the house has been the residence of Sir George Binney, the arctic explorer, and the novelist Evelyn Anthony. (RCHM 7).

Listing NGR: TL5885429432