Gate Lodge, Brookhall, Londonderry, BT48 8JE

This is an early 19th century gate lodge, likely built between 1820 and 1839, retaining some of its original Georgian character due to its interesting plan form and fine portico. It is of local historical interest, linked to the significance of former occupants and its role as the entrance to an arboretum and Brook Hall. However, a large extension has diminished its architectural character.

The lodge is an octagonal, single-storey cottage with two rooms, rendered and painted. It features a tetrastyle portico with a slated, pyramidal roof. The original entrance was under the portico, but has since been altered to a 16-pane sliding sash window. The portico’s columns are in the fluted Doric order, supporting a flat entablature. Each facet of the octagon has a window with small panes, some recently replaced and unpainted. A single chimney stack rises from the apex of the low-pitched slated roof. A single-storey extension has been added, connected by a porch link. While this extension does not contribute to the overall setting of the lodge, it does not detract from the principal elevation. The lodge is closely associated with the pillars, gates, railings, and anchors of Brook Hall (listed separately as HB01/25/002D).

The lodge is thought to have been built during the occupancy of Henry Barré Beresford, although it may have been erected by George Hill. Another lodge formerly existed at the north avenue, but has since been demolished, and the avenue’s line altered. The extension was built in the 1970s. The gates and pillars are believed to be from George Hill’s time.