Gatelodge, Belmont Hotel, Rathfriland Road, Banbridge, Co Down, BT32 3LH

Small single-storey stucco-rendered gate lodge with hipped roof, constructed c.1860, attributed to architect Thomas Jackson, located at the northern end of the Belmont Hotel site (HB17/07/029A), on S side of Rathfriland Road, Banbridge. It sits behind the gatescreen which consists of panelled tapered masonry piers with pyramidal caps and associated railings with lollipop finials. Rectangular on plan, neo-classical design with projecting central porch. Natural slate roof covering with black clay ridge tiles. Moulded plastered cornice below overhanging eaves level to all sides. All window openings have moulded plastered surrounds with painted stone cills and painted plinth. Cental stuccoed chimney on ridge with projecting cornice. Timber soffits & eaves to all elevations with rainwater goods now replaced with PVC fittings. Front elevation (SE) Fronting onto driveway that leads uphill towards hotel to S. Three-bay, symmetrical façade with projecting central hipped-roof porch. Porch is flanked by Doric-style pilasters, with equivalent pilasters to each corner. Single window opening either side of porch with replacement fixed-pane timber windows. Replacement timber panelled front door. Side elevation (NE) Facing onto Rathfriland Road, behind railings. Single window opening to centre with replacement fixed-pane timber window. Rear elevation (NW) Two blocked-up window openings. Side elevation (SW) Facing into hotel grounds. Blind façade, no openings. Setting: The gatelodge is located at the northern end of the Belmont Hotel site (HB17/07/029A), on S side of Rathfriland Road, Banbridge The gate lodge retains its original footprint and boundary walling and gate piers complement the structure. The gate lodge sits behind the original gatescreen which consists of panelled tapered masonry piers surmounted with pyramidal caps and associated railings with lollipop finials. The gatelodge announces the entrance to the landscaped hotel grounds and is of local interest as an important survival of the rich linen heritage of Banbridge.The gate lodge has group value with the Belmont Hotel and the former linen stores set above the gatelodge in their mature landscaped setting. Materials Roof – natural slate with black clay ridge tiles Walls – stucco plaster Windows – replacement timber fixed pane, single-glazed / blocked up RWGs – PVC