86, Fore Street

No 86, located on Fore Street, is a timber-framed and plastered building dating from the 15th to 16th century, originally known as the Old Neptune Inn. Although it has undergone significant restoration, it still retains many original features. The building includes a 15th-century hall block that extends both east and west, and a 16th-century solar wing that extends south at the rear. The date 1639 is noted, likely marking the time when alterations were made to the house.

The front of the building features a projecting eaves with a carved eaves board supported by carved brackets. The first storey has two oriel bay windows with lattice leaded lights and intricately carved frames, which are also supported on carved brackets. Below the eaves, small mullioned casements flank the oriels. On the ground storey, there is a six-light mullioned and transomed window with two carved mullions. The entrance includes a four-centred doorway with carved spandrels depicting Neptune and a sea serpent, and there is a painted panel between the oriels that features a similar design.

At the rear, the solar wing extends south and is also timber framed and plastered, featuring a jettied upper storey with large casements and a substantial mullioned and transomed window on the ground storey. Inside, the building boasts a fine 17th-century fireplace along with moulded beams and ceiling joists. The roofs are tiled and include two gabled dormers at the front.

No 86 is part of a group of timber-framed buildings from the 15th to 17th centuries, which includes Nos 80 and 80A, and Nos 84 to 92 (even). It also forms a group with Nos 77 to 81 (odd) known as The Lord Nelson Inn, and Nos 85 to 91 (odd).