The Ruins of Cowdray House

The Ruins of Cowdray House are the remains of a fine stone mansion, featuring a complete courtyard with a gatehouse, hall with oriel windows, chapel, kitchen, and more. The east and north sides were constructed around 1492 by Sir David Owen, while the west and south sides were built around 1533 by Sir William Fitzwilliam, who later became the Earl of Southampton. Additional alterations were made by Sir William's half-brother, Sir Anthony Browne, and his son, the first Viscount Montague. The Montague family resided here until part of the house was destroyed by fire in 1792. The building is made of ashlar with quoins of a different colored stone and features a castellated parapet. It has casement windows and large bays that rise two storeys with two tiers of six lights. The gatehouse is located on the west side, featuring a four-centred carriage archway flanked by three-storey octagonal turrets. The hall and chapel are situated on the east side of the courtyard.