The Vyne

The Vyne is a substantial country house, originally built between 1500 and 1520 for Lord Sandys. It was significantly altered in the mid 17th century and the 18th and 19th centuries. The core of the house survives as a two-storeyed, U-shaped structure with three-storeyed towers at the external corners, and a chapel (built between 1518 and 1527) attached to the east.

The north front was originally symmetrically designed with a 2-1-1-2 window arrangement, with the chapel extending as a four-window, half-octagon. In the 17th century, the central three bays were altered with the addition of a full-height portico, reputedly the earliest of its kind and attributed to John Webb. This portico features a wooden, pedimented entablature, brick cheeks with tall openings, stucco columns (two circular columns within square corner columns), and carved stone Corinthian capitals. The interior of the portico is stuccoed and includes an upper window and a small balustrade above the doorway, both with architraves.

The north front is constructed of red brick in English bond, with diaper patterns, stone weathered bands, a plinth, and a crenellated parapet. Windows have 17th-century moulded stone frames, containing 18th-century sash windows. The chapel windows retain their original mullioned and transomed stone frames, with taller windows beneath four central arches and hood-moulds.

The south front has flanking wings terminating in gables containing two-storeyed 18th-century bays. Projecting wings of one bay are located at the angles, alongside stacks. A projecting central piece features a 19th-century two-storeyed porch, with a 1-3-1-1-1-3-1 window arrangement. The walling matches that of the north front, and it has a plain parapet. Stone classical doorcases are found in the end blocks (facing inwards) and in the centre, leading to a shallow paved court bounded by a balustrade. Basement windows of the original structure are visible on the east side.

The interiors are notable, including a first-floor gallery with linen-fold wainscot, panelled rooms, the original interior of the chapel with panelling and stained glass, and a classical staircase hall dating from around 1780, featuring Doric and Corinthian orders and coffered ceilings. The Vyne is now owned by the National Trust.