The Priory

The Priory is a farmhouse dating back to 1586, with later additions and alterations. A gabled extension projects forward from the main range and bears a tie beam inscribed with the initials "H1648ES" for Henry and Elizabeth Stebbing, indicating a later modification. A 20th-century extension is located at the right-hand end. The house is timber-framed and rendered externally, with a plaintiled roof. It is two storeys high with an attic. The main range is long and extended with various gabled projections, two to the front and two to the rear, including the gable containing the staircase. Each gable features carved tie beams and most have pierced drop finials. The windows are casements with diamond and square leaded glass; two 5-light canted windows are set at first-floor level, flanking the porch, and have moulded heads and sills. A 17th-century gabled porch features carved tie beams, pierced drop finials, and turned balusters to the side openings, housing a modern panelled door in a 17th-century style. Two internal stacks are particularly noteworthy, each with four detached octagonal flues, moulded bases, and linked caps. The interior is exceptionally well-preserved, showcasing closely-spaced exposed timbering throughout. The earlier section of the house has roll-moulded joists with enriched stop-chamfered spine beams with run-out stops. Original newel stairs are present in the rear extension, alongside fine internal doors. A first-floor fireplace boasts a moulded arch.