forge/smithy

Detached two-bay single-storey forge, dated 1869, having horseshoe arch to front (north) gable, and having projecting bay with catslide roof to west elevation. Now disused, although recently substantially refurbished. Pitched slate roof with timber bargeboards and exposed rafter ends, limestone chimneystack with cut-stone coping, and cast-iron rainwater goods. Rubble limestone walls with dressed and margined quoins. Cast-iron date plaque to front gable having relief coronet, 'B' for Bath estate, and date. Square-headed window openings with recent cut limestone lintels and sills, and replacement one-over-one timber sliding sash windows. Horseshoe arch to front gable, having cut-stone voussoirs and timber battened double-leaf door. Two cast-iron lion-heads with tethering rings to either side of door. Situated on roadside with stream to rear of site.

This pleasant forge was recently refurbished, having fallen into dereliction. Its horseshoe entrance makes it distinctive, as well as clearly marking it out as a forge. The quality of its stone detailing, and the retention of tethering rings and the date plaque enhance the heritage qualities of the structure. The building shares many characteristics with a similar forge located some 10 kilometres north-west in Drummanreagh, built in the same year. The date plaques on both buildings bear the letter 'B', indicating that they were commissioned by the Bath estate. The forge once provided a vital service in the rural community.