Four Historic Buildings with Timber Windows in the East Midlands
At Ventrolla, as timber window specialists we’re naturally obsessed with spotting original windows when we’re out and about. So we’ve put together our guide to a selection of the best in various parts of the UK. We’ve already focused on our favourites in Edinburgh – and now’s the turn of the East Midlands. From Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire to Lincolnshire, Derbyshire and beyond, whether you’re visiting the area or live locally, here are a few places you might want to take a look at.
Belton House, Lincolnshire
A beautiful country retreat, just outside of Grantham and south of Newark, Belton House was built in the 1680s. This majestic example of Carolean architecture, now under the care of the National Trust, features the symmetry that was so popular back then. The most skilled master craftsmen of the time were employed to creates its finishing touches, including sash windows, which were an innovation at the time, while the gardens are home to a stunning cast iron-framed orangery in the Italian Garden.
Cromford Mill, Derbyshire
Nestling between Matlock and Wirksworth, on the edge of the Peak District, the world’s first water-powered cotton spinning mill, Cromford Mill was developed by Richard Arkwright in 1771. All five storeys of this magnificent mill feature sash windows – this may seem a lot but they were there to reduce the need for artificial light within the mill. Sashes were just starting to become popular in middle-class homes, but their use here is very much driven by practicality and the single-opening panes would have also been used in conjunction with a new heating system to help control the humidity and temperature.
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, Castle Road, Nottingham
Built in 1189, England’s oldest surviving inn was christened when King Richard the Lionheart and his men congregated here before setting off on the Crusades in Jerusalem. The building rests against Castle Rock, upon which Nottingham Castle is built, and several caves, carved out of sandstone, surround it. When it comes to timber windows, the building sports quite a selection, mostly due to additions that were made through the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Its official Historic England listing notes Yorkshire sashes, three-light casements, and dormers—and there are even casement windows set into the Castle rock itself.
The Guildhall, Leicester
From timber casement, sash and mullioned and vibrant stained glass, this Grade I listed building boasts a range of stunning windows. Originally built around 1390, with later additions over the subsequent four centuries, this striking building at the heart of Leicester’s city centre now functions as a museum, gallery and entertainment venue. Thanks to its development over the years, the buildings that make up The Guildhall are constructed from different materials. The medieval hall and the east and west wings are timber-framed, and the house forming the south range, from the nineteenth century. is built of brick.
If your property has timber windows that need attention, you’re thinking of upgrading the energy efficiency of your windows, or you’re looking to have new wooden windows crafted in a traditional style, our team are perfectly placed to give you the advice you need. Contact us now for a free, no-obligation consultation.