Listed Building: BEARTS FARMHOUSE (281361)

THORNDON HALL ROAD TM 16 NE 4/80 Bearts Farmhouse - II Farmhouse. Early C16 3-cell main range with later C16 service cross-wing to left. Early C17 alterations. Much restored mid C20. Timber framed and plastered; much renewed exposed studding and down braces to gable ends of wing. Roof of C20 plaintiles. 2 storeys, attic in parlour cell. Various mid C20 small-paned casement windows. One large reproduction open hall window. To left of main range is a mid C20 gabled porch with plank side door. Internal stack with original oblong red brick shaft. 3-bay main range, the original layout unclear. Some of the framing over the hall is sooted, as is the roof, but there is evidence for original upper windows throughout. The partition between hall and service cells seems a later insertion as it interrupts the pattern of the roof timbers. The present stack, at one end of the hall bay, is an early C17 insertion with back-to-back open fireplaces. Hall ceiling, with ogee stop-chamfered axial bridging beam and plain joists supported on a ledge, also seems an early C17 insertion. Plain joists (painted) in parlour. Floor in service end largely removed for mid C20 stair. Clasped purlin roof with 2-way wind bracing. Newel stair in 2 flights, mostly C17. Cross-wing much restored mid C20: one 4-centre arched doorway in side wall; renewed upper floor; some intact first floor framing. Listing NGR: TM1509868131