Middleton Hall

Middleton Hall is a manor farmhouse with origins in the early 16th century, incorporating later 17th-century work. The rear (south) range dates to the early 16th century, with a western cross-wing; a late 17th-century front range was built, incorporating the front portion of that cross-wing. The front range is constructed of red brick in English bond, topped by a hipped roof covered in plaintiles and pantiles. It has two storeys and attics, with five bays arranged in a 2:1:2 pattern. Original cross windows are set within segmental arches and feature square-leaded panes on the first floor. A reproduction plank door is positioned centrally, with a tall, two-light fanlight above. Three modern gabled dormers have been added. A single-storey addition from the 19th century extends to the right, with a parapet. The rear range is timber-framed, displaying exposed close studding with herringbone brick nogging on the rear wall and east-facing gable. The gable of the cross-wing is plastered. Part of the roof is covered in plaintiles, and part in pantiles. Various casement windows are present, along with evidence of formerly blocked original windows. The east gable features a moulded tie beam. Inside the cross-wing is an internal stack with four detached octagonal shafts, each having a moulded brick base and corbelled cap.

The interior retains a fine ornamental plaster ceiling on the ground floor of the earlier range. A running frieze around the walls depicts cupids and heads in profile, likely representing Roman emperors. Two moulded cross-beams feature a running design of pomegranate and vine foliage. The principal design, approximately 60% complete, includes thin moulded ribs forming interlocking geometric patterns with four-lobed bosses. There was previously a central coat of arms. Decorative motifs include the grasshopper of the Gresham family, suggesting a date for the work between 1594 and 1624. A dog-leg staircase has turned finials to the newel posts, although the upper balustrade has been altered. A fine dog gate, with two tiers of slender turned balusters, is located at the head of the first flight of steps. Within the front room of the cross-wing, plaster-moulded beams are present. Fluted wooden pilaster strips flank the open fireplace, surmounted by framed plaster depictions of Roman emperors in profile. Several arched doorways and fine original studded doors remain, particularly the door to the cellar. Both 16th-century ranges have queen-post roofs.