Polhampton Farmhouse

Polhampton Farmhouse is a mid-17th century farmhouse with alterations and an extension dating to the early 19th century. It has a double pile plan and a small, single-storey addition on the east side. The north and west elevations retain much of their original character, featuring red brick in English bond with a moulded eaves band and a shallow brick and tile moulding that serves as a first floor band. Windows are set within projecting brickwork frames (some eaved), with moulded brick mullions of two, three, and five openings, though some are now filled with brickwork. Casement windows are present, and the elevations have a plinth. A steep, hipped tiled roof is topped by two hipped dormers on the east face, and the building is characterised by two large, shafted brick stacks.

The south-facing front elevation was altered in the early 19th century and now features three windows with a central pediment containing a circular light. A brick band and plinth are also present here, along with casement windows set in cambered openings. A six-panelled door is set within a simple architrave and cornice supported by brackets. The east side of the farmhouse is tile hung, with the addition featuring a half-hipped tiled roof and a corner tapered stack.

Inside, a mid-17th century dog-leg staircase has a closed string, turned balusters (symmetrical on both axes), square newel posts with shaped finials, and a moulded handrail. A flat “splat” newel post is found on the attic landing where the balustrade returns to the wall. The dining room boasts panelled walls topped by a particularly fine plastered frieze depicting alternating double-headed eagles and large leaves, linked by strapwork. Near the junction of the wall and ceiling, a series of dentils with leaf and petal enrichment are present. A large panel above the fireplace portrays three figures set amidst foliage and flowers, including roses and vine leaves, and it's surrounded by a rose and thistle trail, also with small dentils. Rows of nailhead-type ornament are located above and below this panel. A similar panel exists over the fireplace in the bedroom directly above the dining room. The front rooms retain chamfered axial beams, and some six-panelled doors remain.