The Grove

The Grove is a large farmhouse, now used as offices, built in 1712 for Thomas Seare. It was subsequently extended in the 18th century and altered in the early 19th century. The house is constructed of red brick, with vitrified brick panels in the central section. The upper floor of the central block features a red brick inscription between the windows, reading T-1-7-1-2-S. It is two storeys and has attics, with a plain tile roof and a large early 18th-century ridge stack on the left gable end of the central block. There are eight flush sash windows. A horizontal floor band runs around the building. Parapets are present on the centre and left sides. The main entrance is blocked. A panelled door with a large pedimental hood supported by cut brackets is located on the left side. The soffits to the gauged brick lintels of the two central ground floor windows and the central first floor window have patterned decoration. The right side of the house is constructed from chequered red brick and features 19th and 20th-century twin sash windows. The rear elevation includes a large 19th-century conservatory with casement windows featuring Gothic-style glazing bars. Part of the three-window southern elevation dates back to the early 18th century.