Glenstal Abbey

Detached two-bay single-storey Norman Revival gate lodge, built c. 1860, comprising gabled porch to front (south) elevation and timber extension to rear (north) elevation. Pitched slate roof with brick chimneystack, limestone copings, cast-iron ridge crestings and finials. Iron finial with letters 'C' and 'B' entwined. Pitched slate roof to porch having limestone copings, pinnacle and cast-iron ridge crestings. Snecked sandstone walls with carved heraldic plaque to front and quatrefoil motif to porch. Shouldered square-headed opening having limestone block-and-start surround and quarry glazed windows. Recessed square-headed openings to corners, front elevation with marble columns having carved limestone caps and quarry glazed windows. Round-headed opening to porch having carved limestone and sandstone chevroned voussoirs with carved head to keystone and carved limestone impost course. Recessed shouldered square-headed opening having timber battened door. Pair of square-profile limestone piers with carved caps having pinnacles and double-leaf cast-iron gates.

This former gate lodge to Glenstal Castle, is a notable example of Norman Revival architecture, displays high quality design and execution. The English architect, William Bardwell designed Glenstal Castle between 1839-1880. Artistic interest is provided by the wealth of finely carved details including the keystone and capitals. Of particular interest are the Norman details in the stonework such as the chevon detailing. The gate lodge presents a coherent decorative scheme, which is further enhanced by the well carved limestone piers.