Free Trade Wharf

Free Trade Wharf was erected in 1796, with later additions and alterations. The building is constructed of stock brick with white stone dressings. A central entrance, rebuilt in 1934, is topped by an entablature and cornice, which incorporates a plinth displaying the arms of the East India Company, dating from the 18th century. Advanced wings flank the entrance, each rising to three storeys and featuring a stone cornice and blocking course. A band runs below the sill height of the first-floor windows. A stone plinth is present. A recessed arch extends from ground level to above the first-floor window level; the western wing’s arch is blind. The windows of the eastern wing have flat stone lintels and sills, with intact glazing bars. Stone banding continues over further eastern and western wings, which were originally likely of one storey but have since been altered and their height increased. At the rear, the higher, gabled ends of the warehouse are visible.