18 And 20, Market Place

Nos 18 and 20 Market Place is a Grade I listed building, originally built as the Red Lion Inn. Designed by the architects known as the Bastards of Blandford, it features a three-storey façade with five windows. The front is constructed of typical brickwork, with a central bay that includes a yard entry on the ground floor, flanked by stone piers. These piers support the bases of two stone pilasters, which carry an open pediment. The pilasters are adorned with unique Composite caps featuring acanthus ornament and inward-turned volutes. A richly detailed modillion cornice runs along the top.

The central window on the second floor is round-headed, and above it, in the tympanum of the pediment, is a foliated cartouche displaying a heraldic lion in relief. The sash windows are designed with triple keystones and brick aprons. The two windows above the shop of No 18 have been altered. The shop front of No 18, likely from the late 19th century, is relatively modest, while the shop front of No 20, occupied by Messrs Blanford and Webb, features elaborate carvings, cresting, a pediment, and vases, making it a striking element that competes with the main façade.

This building is part of a group of listed buildings in Market Place, which includes Nos 59 to 73 (odd) East Street, Conyer's Filling Station, Nos 1 to 7 (odd), Nos 2 to 8 (even), and No 12 West Street, as well as the Church of St Peter and St Paul.