Merchant Taylor'S Almshouses

The Merchant Taylor's Almshouses date to 1826, with later additions. This symmetrical group of buildings forms a shallow U-shape, facing south. It comprises a main block of seven three-bay double houses, accompanied by side blocks containing four houses each. The central section and the ends feature pediments. The pediments are topped with cresting displaying the arms of the Merchant Taylor's Guild, and a clock face sits within the tympanum. A wooden cupola rises from the roof ridge. The roof is moderately low pitched and slated, and the exterior is constructed of greyish yellow brick with a stone cornice and brick parapet. Pilasters support an entablature at the centre and ends of the main block. A stone band runs around the first floor. Casement windows, featuring glazing bars, are set within moulded architraves, and six-panel double doors are similarly framed. Blank windows are positioned above the doors. An inscription above the main entrance reads: "The Merchant Taylor's Almshouses, built AD 1826. Master, Tho. Bulcock Burbidge Esq," followed by the names of four wardens. A round-arched link connects the north and west blocks, featuring stone impost blocks, a keystone, and a coping with a central ball finial. A further block of two similar double houses extends to the south-east. These almshouses, together with associated gate and walls, combine to form a notable group.