Survey Data
Reg No
41401636
Rating
Regional
Categories of Special Interest
Architectural
Previous Name
Hilton House
Original Use
Bell tower/stand
Date
1850 - 1870
Coordinates
248810, 320834
Date Recorded
30/05/2012
Date Updated
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Description
Attached square-plan four-stage bell-tower, erected c.1860, having narrow belfry above top stage with crenellated top to belfry and crenellations to parapet of tower. Roughly coursed squared rubble stone walls, with dressed block-and-start stone quoins and with string courses between stages. Shouldered dressed stone abutments to south elevation. Round-headed openings to each elevation of each stage having dressed stone surrounds, hood-mouldings to openings to top stage. Oculus to south elevation of third stage, possibly formerly having clock, with dressed stone surround and stone hood-moulding. Round carriage arch, having dressed stone surround and red brick soffit. Double-leaf metal door to north elevation, with hand-shaped cast-iron knockers. Round-headed door opening to east elevation of interior of arch, having dressed stone surround and metal door. Outbuildings attached.
Appraisal
John Madden was made a Ward of Chancery following the early death of his father, Sir John Madden, in 1844. He built this bell tower, at the age of 21, to commemorate his coming of age. Well-composed and executed, it is enlivened by dressed stone quoins, crenellations and buttresses. It is representative of the power and stature of the family, as well as the ongoing development of the estate during the nineteenth century.