The Matron'S College

THE CLOSE 1. 1594 Nos 39 to 46 (consec) (The Matron's College) SU 1429 NW 3/26 28.2.52. 1 GV 2. Established by Seth Ward in 1682 and probably designed by Sir C Wren. 2 storey range, red brick on projecting plinth with moulded capping. 1st floor string and bold, moulded and bracketed cornice. Hipped old tile roof. Symmetrical design with projecting flanking stone quoined wings, each with 2 light casements and circular central attic dormer with scroll supports and ball finial. The centre of main block has a pediment with cornice carried over, and sheild of Royal Coat of Arms and supporting fruit swags in tympanum. Above pediment an octagonal glazed lantern, lead roof. 12 2 light casements on 1st floor, 10 on ground floor, all with stone surrounds and mullions. Secondary doors in architrave surrounds, frieze and cornice, at corners and central door in architrave surround, projecting wooden hood with segmental pediment and panelled soffit on double scroll carved brackets. All doors early C19 6 fielded panels. Stone panel over central door with inscription in moulded frame with small carved scrolls and swag ornament, supporting small bracketed cornice, all resting on stone corbelling. The rear elevation has 5 gables. Chimney stacks set diagonally and grouped.

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

Listing NGR: SU1427429723