Tithe Farmhouse

FRESSINGFIELD LAXFIELD ROAD TM 27 NE 10/29 - Tithe Farmhouse -- II*

Farmhouse. Mid C14 with C17 alterations and additions. T-shape plan. Timber framed, roughcast-rendered, with a roof of glazed black pantiles. 2 storeys and attic. Casement windows of C19 and C20. The south wing has a range of 2 C19 windows and a C19 gabled porch with 6-panelled bolection-moulded door and semi-circular fanlight with ornamental glazing bars. Above the porch is a square stack, at the junction of the 2 ranges. At the gable end of the north wing is a lean-to dairy addition. The north wing contains the remains of a raised-aisle hall: the aisles have been removed and the roof and lower bay of the hall were replaced in C17. Parts of both queen-posts are visible: these are octagonal and quite short, with moulded bases and caps. The queen-post at the rear retains its original arched brace to the collar. The south range is a former solar cross-wing, contemporary with the hall range. It is in 3 bays, with a C17 one-bay addition to the front (west). The stack is inserted in the centre bay. Heavy short arched braces to one tie beam and evidence for similar bracing to the bridging beams on the ground floor. Intact roof with 2 slender octagonal crown posts with moulded bases and caps, and with heavy 4- way bracing. In the original front gable there is evidence for multiple arched wind-bracing. Newel stairs in south wing, with a C19 arched entrance to the lower flight. Although much of the structure is concealed this is an important example of C14 work and contemporary with the nearby Church Farm. stable (Item No. 10/15). In the same farmstead is the remains of a C14 barn, not of listable quality. Remains of medieval moat.

Listing NGR: TM2680777038