Hermitage — WHITESTOWN LOWER OR HERMITAGE

Detached three-bay two-storey over part raised basement farmhouse, extant 1767, on a rectangular plan; four-bay full-height rear (east) elevation. Occupied, 1911. Sold, 1944. Extended, 1945, producing present composition. Hipped slate roof on a quadrangular plan with lichen-covered terracotta ridge tiles extending into clay ridge tiles, paired cement rendered central chimney stacks on axis with ridge having concrete capping supporting terracotta pots, and cast-iron rainwater goods on rendered eaves. Roughcast wall to front (west) elevation; slate hung surface finish (remainder). Segmental-headed central door opening approached by "perron" of five cut-granite steps, doorcase with engaged Composite columns supporting "Cavetto" cornice on rosette-detailed fluted frieze, and concealed dressings framing timber panelled double doors having fanlight. Square-headed window openings with cut-granite sills, and concealed dressings framing six-over-six timber sash windows without horns. Interior including (ground floor): central hall retaining carved timber surrounds to door openings framing timber panelled doors; staircase hall (north-west) retaining carved timber surrounds to door openings framing timber panelled doors, staircase on a dog leg plan with turned timber "spindle" balusters supporting carved timber banister, and carved timber surrounds to door openings to landing framing timber panelled doors; reception room (south-west) retaining carved timber surround to door opening framing timber panelled door with timber panelled shutters to window opening; reception room (north-east) retaining carved timber surround to door opening framing timber panelled door with timber panelled shutters to window openings, chimneypiece, and plasterwork cornice to ceiling; reception room (south-east) retaining carved timber surround to door opening framing timber panelled door with timber panelled shutters to window openings, chimneypiece, and plasterwork cornice to ceiling; and carved timber surrounds to door openings to remainder framing timber panelled doors with timber panelled shutters to window openings. Set in landscaped grounds.