Description
19th century large castellated gothic mansion with towers,
turrets and crenellated parapets, 2/3 storeys over basement,
now (1989) a hospital. Several building phases, beginning
with a north-facing Georgian villa (built late 18th/early
19th century) originally free-standing, now part of rear
wing; additions in at least 2 phases, viz 1858 and 1890, the
last by James Thomson of Glasgow. VILLA has 2 storeys over
basement, 3-bay front with advanced centre, originally
classical it has been gothicised, though the modillion eaves
cornice survives on 3 sides; the angled pilaster bases
surviving either side of the door suggest that there was
originally a semi-circular porch; original stair at rear
partly projects from wall. Rubble and ashlar 1858 ADDITION
extends southwards from east wall of villa before returning
west, south front with port-cochere against tower that south
range deepened in plan perhaps c. 1890; centre spine wall
retains original exterior windows; east (garden) front has asymmetrically advanced ends, near centre stair window. Large
1890 WING at west extends southwards; it has cusped-headed
gothic windows at ground (most other openings hood-moulded
and square-headed, many also mullioned) and also has a
full-length spine wall, a long gallery at west. Built of
stugged yellow coursers, polished dressings; plate glass sash
windows; roofs concealed, but mostly slated and leaded.
Interiors are handsome, also gothic; extensive cornice
plasterwork, many ribbed ceilings; 2 main stairs, one with
cast-iron balustrade, the other (at axis with 1890 wing) has
balustrade encased by timber sheeting; leaded glass
(heraldic) window in stair hall below; chimney pieces; many
original lavatory/bathroom fittings. Gated rear courtyard. In
forecourt, 2 massive stone balls which lie within the
curtilage.