Summary : Late 15th or early 16th century. Originally the Abbots Hall but used as a non-conformist Chapel from 17th century onwards. This was occupied from the late 17th century by a Presbyterian Society whose origin has been attributed to the work of Thomas Larkham, ejected from the parish church in 1660. The society divided in 1794, the heterodox, latterly Unitarian, element retaining possession of the Abbey Hall until 1959, when they disbanded. Now a Brethren Assembly. Built of granite. West end gable fronted with Saddlestone. Double pointed arched window with hood moulding and 16th century granite entrance arch with hood moulding and carved spandrels. On the south wall are buttresses, an external chimney and an original window (now blocked). Attached granite forecourt wall which has 2 sets of rusticated gatepiers with ball finials. The original Mediaeval roof is said to be concealed under the coved plaster ceiling. |