The Wardrobe

The Wardrobe is a Grade II* listed building located in The Close, originally constructed in 1254, with the current structure mainly dating from the 15th century, heightened in the 17th century, and further altered in the 19th century. The building features an elaborate symmetrical east front with two storeys and an attic, constructed from flint brick and stone rubble, accented with stone quoins. It has a steeply pitched old tile roof with two tiers and a tall central block flanked by double-gabled side wings.

The central block boasts a large six-light stone mullioned and double-transomed leaded casement window, which was originally part of the upper hall now divided into several rooms. Below this, there is a triple Tudor arched early 19th-century red brick arcade between the wings, situated behind a large blocked 13th-century door surround with a flat head. Each wing contains two two-light casements at the attic level, a three-light and a two-light stone mullioned and transomed casement on the first floor, and altered windows on the ground floor.

At the rear of the central part of the house, originally the hall, there is a buttress and a chimney breast on the north side that served the former kitchens and offices. Inside, the building features a fine mid-18th-century staircase with an open string, scrolled decorated brackets at the tread ends, turned balusters, turned fluted newels, and a moulded swept handrail. The well has a pilastered dado, and the south wall displays paper mache Rococo reliefs and trophies that continue onto the hall ceiling. Three rooms showcase Rococo stucco work, with a pilaster-framed chimney piece and a carved overmantel in the dining room ceiling, featuring an eagle in the central panel. The drawing room includes finely carved 18th-century doorcases, ogee and scroll mouldings on the frieze, and carved overdoors, along with a Rococo fireplace and stucco ceiling work. The first floor has 17th-century doorways and dado panelling, some reset linen fold panelling, and a 17th-century attic stair. The roof of the north wing contains 15th-century members, with six bays and five trusses, four of which have cambered arched braced and chamfered collars, with only the bases of the arch braces remaining.

All the listed buildings in The Close form an outstanding group.