Complex Of Farm Buildings Including Dovecote And Labouers Cottage At Bemerton Farm

This complex of farm buildings at Bemerton Farm was constructed in 1863 as a model farm for the Dowager Countess of Pembroke, designed by Samuel Clarke. The complex suffered some damage from fires but remains of significant interest for its well-arranged layout of numerous offices and its distinctive façade of random rubble, resembling ‘crazy-paving’. The roofs are slate. The original design incorporated an animal infirmary.

To the north of the main buildings is a two-and-a-half storey labourer's cottage. It includes a bar window on the north side and formerly round-headed windows to the east. South of the cottage is an arcaded courtyard connecting sheds to a one-and-a-half storey coach house and the main block. Round-headed windows are a recurring feature, often paired and with overarches.

West of the cottage stands a circular dovecote topped with a conical slate roof and lantern, featuring two ranges of pigeon holes below the eaves, and various openings, including cross-loops (possibly for chickens). The east front of the main range has projecting, quarter-hipped gabled sheds arranged in groups of three with round-arched windows. Opposite the entrance (dated 1863) is a pair of gables, with a small entrance featuring a shouldered lintel and bellcote above.

To the south lies a foldyard enclosed by brick walls incorporating ‘crazy-paving’ rubble and ashlar with rounded capping. Pill-box structures are situated in the south-west corners. This farm building complex is important for its architectural design, its insight into agricultural practices, and its reflection of social history.