Stable-Block at Gwernheylod

The stable-block at Gwernheylod is an octagonal, two-storey structure built in red brick with freestone dressings, including pediments, imposts, and a plinth. It features a slate roof with tiled ridges, which was partially collapsed during an inspection in September 1993. The design is unique, with elongated western and eastern sides, three-bay elevations on the northern and southern sides, and five-bay elevations on the western and eastern sides, complemented by two-bay splayed corners. A notable feature is the ground floor arcade made up of semi-circular voussoir arches connected by a continuous impost band. There are rectangular loft openings above all arches except for the main entrance arches, which are set in advanced, pedimented bays at the centre of the three and five-bay elevations. The principal entrance is on the eastern side, featuring freestone voussoirs and a keystone. The bricks on the jambs of the arches have rounded corners.

Inside, the stable-block has an unusual plan that includes spacious stabling, store rooms, and a central light-well with dove boxes, surrounded by a cobbled perimeter path approximately 2.5 meters wide, likely used for exercising horses under cover. This design is reminiscent of the demolished circular stable block by J C Loudon at Garth, Guilsford, Montgomeryshire. The internal spaces are defined by brick partition walls, boarded doors, and slatted timber-frame windows. The loft above has timber flooring and lathed partitions, supported by standard 19th-century king-post roof trusses. The western half features a broad transverse passage leading from the perimeter path to the central light well, with high, stepped segmental arches at either end of the passage, which was formerly gated. The stabling on the eastern side consists of longitudinal stalling with classical-style arcaded timber partitions, accommodating four stalls on the northern side and three stalls on the southern side. The rectangular light-well has a dentilled eaves band and retains three tiers of dove boxes at either end.