The Vyne

SU 65 NW SHERBORNE ST JOHN VYNE PARK 5/82 26.4.57 The Vyne

I

1500 to 1520, mid C17, C18, C19. The original house for Lord Sandys substantially remains as a 2-storeyed U-shaped structure, with 3-storeyed towers at the external corners, and a chapel (1518-27) attached at the east side. The north front was a symmetrical design of 2.1.1.2 windows, with the added chapel (4 windows) ending in a half-octagon; the centre 3 bays were altered by the addition of a full-height portico. Red brick walling in English bond, with diaper patterns, stone weathered bands, plinth, crenellated parapet. The windows have C17 moulded stone frames, with C18 sashes within; those of the chapel have the original mullioned and transomed stone frames, the taller beneath 4 central arches and hood-moulds. The centre 3 bays were altered about 1654, with the provision of a classical portico (said to be the earliest, and by John Webb) with a pedimented wooden entablature, brick cheeks with wide tall openings, stucco columns (2 circular within square corner columns), carved stone Corinthian caps; the interior is also stuccoed, with an upper window (and small balustrade) above the doorway, both with architraves. The south front has flanking wings which end as gables containing 2-storeyed (C18) bays, there is a projecting wing of one bay in each angle (together with a stack) and a projecting centrepiece with a C19 2-storeyed porch, of 1.3.1.1.1.3.1 windows. The walling is the same, with a plain parapet. Stone classical doorcases occur in the end blocks (facing inwards) and in the centre, and between them is a shallow paved court bounded by a balustrade. On the east side are basement windows of the original structure. The house is notable for its interiors, which include a first-floor gallery lined with linen-fold wainscot, panelled rooms, an original interior to the chapel with panelling and stained glass, and a classical staircase hall of about 1780, having Doric and Corinthian Orders and coffered ceilings. Note: there is an extensive bibliography about the Vyne, which now belongs to the National Trust.

Listing NGR: SU6271556115