77-81, BENTON STREET

77 to 81 Benton Street is a building that likely dates from the 16th century, but most of its external features are from the 17th and 18th centuries. The majority of the house is late 17th century with an 18th-century refronting. It is two stories tall, constructed with a timber frame and plastered exterior, and has tiled roofs. There are two wings at the back that extend to the east. The front of the building slightly projects at each end, featuring small hips on the tiled roof at the back, which is adorned with a wood ogee modillion cornice along the parapet. The facade has a seven-window range with flush frame sash windows that include glazing bars. The entrance features a dentil pediment doorcase supported by scroll consoles. On the north side of the northeast wing, there is a late 17th-century window with three lights, an arched central light, and leaded panes. Inside, there are several notable features, including a late 17th-century staircase. At the north end of the front, there is a rebuilt chimney stack with an inset panel dated 1765.