Monks Barn (EHER 25521)

Monk's Barn is a restored 15th century two-storey timber-framed building which has the appearance of a "Wealden" house. It is one of the oldest and most important buildings in Newport and is an excellent example of its type.

NRHE data transfer: Monk's Barn, now in tenements, is of 15th century date with modern restoration. It is the oldest important building in Newport as well as one of the best Essex cottages. Grade II*. <1> - <3> Monk's Barn. Timber-framed two storeyed building with exposed framing and brick nogging on the front. Restored. The house was built in three stages. The earliest part, which probably comprised the original priests house was a late 15th or early 16th century structure with an under croft of coursed flint rubble and brick. Grade II*. <4> Monk's Barn is a restored 15th century two-storey timber-framed built in three stages. The earliest part probably comprises of the original priest's house which dates to the late 15th or early 16th century. Later, but still dating to the early 16th century, a two-bay two storeyed hall block was added on the south side and the roof was extended over the original house. A south service wing was added later in the 16th century and a chimney stack inserted in the 17th century. The building has exposed framing and brick noggin on the front. The late 15th or early 16th century structure has an under croft of coursed flint rubble and brick. There is an oriel window in the upper storey with a carving of the figures of a crowned Virgin and Child flanked by angels. There is also a three window range of casement windows with leaded lights. The east and west doors of a cross entrance bay remain, with four centred arches, square heads and carved spandrels and nail studded oak battened doors. The roof has a fine octagonal crown post and tie beam and is covered with tiles. The upper storey of the later south service wing was jettied on the front on exposed joists and curved brackets. This wing was later built out at the rear of the building and has a long catslide roof. The whole front of Monk's Barn has the appearance of a "Wealden" house with a wide coved eaves cornice in the central recessed part. <5> Monk's Barn is a 15th century "Wealden-house", possibly built by the College of St Martin le Grand for the use of their officials. <6> Photograph of the carved bracket beneath an oriel window of Monk's Barn. <7> February 1975. Field survey. Monk's Barn (name confirmed) now a single residence. The house is an outstanding example of a 15th century close-studded timber-framed building with original windows. See ground photographs. <8> See: <9> - <11>