The Grange

The Grange is a building said to date from around 1700. It originally served as part of the outbuildings for an adjacent farm called The Grove but was converted for residential use in the early 19th century. The building has an L-shaped plan and was originally situated north-south along Neasden Lane at its junction with Dudden Hill Lane. Currently, it stands isolated on a traffic island at the head of the Neasden Underpass. Constructed from pale plum-coloured brick, it is now sand colour washed. A watercolour from the Museum of London, dated 1818, shows it was once whitewashed. The walls of the original building are notably thick, measuring about 2 feet. The red-clay tiled roof features an interesting structure; although it appears to be a typical hipped roof with a flat top, it actually consists of two ridges with a central valley, which is clearly visible in the ceilings of the upper floor. All windows are fitted with Gothick glazing. The front of the building is roughly symmetrical and includes a later central two-storey gabled porch projection. The doorway features a Gothick fanlight that matches the window glazing. The property underwent significant renovation and restoration, with almost total alteration of the interior, in 1974-75 when it was converted into the Local History Museum for the London Borough of Brent. During this time, a fire-escape staircase was added along the south-west end of the main range, providing direct access from the first floor to the garden. Although the interior has been much altered, a heavy ceiling beam remains in one of the bedrooms in the wing.