23, King Street

This is an early 19th century house, originally the residence of the brewer associated with Cobbs’ brewery. It is notable for having once entertained William Pitt the Younger. The house consists of two parallel ranges, extending over three storeys and a basement. It is constructed of stock brick with a stone parapet. The facade features five sash windows, each with vertical glazing bars, and stone cills. A stringcourse runs above the ground floor. A fine Adamesque doorcase is centrally located, featuring a cornice with modillions and a frieze displaying a swag pattern, accented with oval paterae at either end. Stylized composite reeded pilasters flank the entrance. The reveals are panelled, and a semi-circular fanlight with glazing bars sits above the door. Beneath the fanlight is a band of reeding and paterae. The original six-panelled door has fielded panels, though two are now missing. An interesting doorknocker is present, along with four restored steps and two scrolled footscrapers. A plinth completes the exterior. A rainwater head is situated at the rear. Inside, the original mahogany staircase features wrought iron scrolled balusters. The ground floor retains traces of a frieze depicting cherubs, swags, and cornucopia. The building forms a notable group with numbers 15 to 35 (odd) and number 91 Trinity Square.