8 High Street

8 High Street is a building that likely dates to around 1600, although it may incorporate some earlier elements. It was raised in height during the 18th century and was formerly known as The Cross Keys public house; it is now a restaurant with accommodation above.

The exterior of the building was originally two storeys but has since been raised. It features a main range that runs parallel to the street and a short rear wing that has been extended later. The structure is timber framed throughout, though some parts are partially rendered, and it has a slate roof. The ground floor is occupied by a 20th-century shop front, which includes a central doorway flanked by canted shop windows with leaded lights. Access to the building is through a passage on the right. The upper storey showcases decorative timber framing with three tiers of small panels featuring cusped quatrefoils, and it has two windows that have been renewed in earlier openings, with the framing pattern designed around them. The attic storey, which is rendered, has two small casement windows (also renewed) beneath the eaves. The side elevation reveals exposed timber framing in square panels, and the raised upper storey also has exposed framing at the rear.

Inside, the layout has been extensively altered due to changing uses, but stop-chamfered ceiling beams remain in place in the right-hand bay, despite the removal of internal partitions.

This building is of special interest due to the richness of its timberwork and serves as a fine example of a wealthy urban building from around 1600.