Reston Hall

SD 49 NE HUGILL A591, Reston

6/20 Reston Hall 12.2.62

II*

House, for Robert Bateman. Date 1743 and initials R.B. on lead rainwater heads with cherubs on gable ends. Roughcast render, limewashed; graduated greenslate roof with modillioned eaves cornice; 3 corniced chimneys at ridge. 2 storeys plus attics lit from gable. 7 windows: C19 cross casements to ground floor, original C18 sashes with glazing bars above. Central 15-panelled door in moulded architrave, early C20 glazed hood on brackets with carved faces. Interior has original panelled doors and window shutters throughout. Entrance hall has C18 fireplace with flanking panelled cupboards and archway with keystone and fluted pilasters. Staircase has cut string and 3 turned balusters to each tread, 3 bottom steps have curved splay to curtail. East room has original fireplace and panelling including shell head niche with shaped shelves, flanked by fluted Ionic pilasters. Kitchen has original fitted dresser with central niche with arched head and shaped shelves flanked by pilasters concealing small cupboards. Panelled bedroom to first floor. Robert Bateman was a poor boy of the Parish for whom the congregation raised a small subscription to enable him to walk to London, where he found employment with a wealthy merchant and worked his way up to be a partner in the firm. He traded from Leghorn where he apparently amassed considerable wealth with which he intended to sail back to England in 1743, at the age of 64, probably to retire to his home Parish as he had arranged for the building of Reston Hall and Ings Parish Church (q.v.) that year. He is said to have been poisoned by the Captain of his vessel on the way home who then returned to Italy with ship and cargo. A portrait of him hangs in Reston Hall.

Listing NGR: SD4575898573