Site Event/Activity record ECH7162 - Historic Building Investigation: Poole Hall Barn, Nantwich

A Level 2/3-type archaeological building investigation was undertaken in 2022 for a Grade II designated timber-framed barn at Poole Hall, Cinder Lane, Nantwich, Cheshire (NGR SD 36461 35520). The barn predates an attached Coach House, of nineteenth century date, and the present Garde II* designated Poole Hall, immediately to the south. However, following unsympathetic nineteenth and twentieth century remodelling, the barn was in a dangerous state of repair, and it has been agreed that the only viable option was the demolition and reconstruction of the building. The survey revealed features within the remains of the extant timber frame that allowed for an updated interpretation of the original form of the frame. The barn was of early-eighteenth century date, pre-dating the existing Hall and possibly contemporary with the rebuilding of Poole Hall in the early 1700s, replacing stable buildings previously in the immediate vicinity. It was of relatively high-status box-frame construction, of five bays, and appeared to have been of only tall single storey height, used for storage rather than housing animals. All elevations appear to have had a herringbone pattern within the framing, with roll mouldings to the original doorway, and to the jetty beam of a pigeon loft in the east gable denoting this relatively high status. Many of the original timbers within the roof were almost certainly reused from an earlier structure. It remains unclear whether the panels of the timber frame were originally infilled with wattle and daub, or brick nogging. Most of the extant brickwork dates from the addition of the Coach House to the west, and had decorative, if subtle, cruciform patterning to each panel, suggesting that the status remained relatively high. However, elements of earlier brickwork were identified, including footings to all walls. (1)