The Clock Tower

Attached square-plan four-stage bell tower, built 1854, having round-headed integral arch forming entrance to walled garden. Carved granite cornice and stepped parapet with corner finials to roof. Yellow brick, laid in Flemish bond to walls, partially rendered. Calp limestone plinth course to arch interior. Stepped buttress to south elevation. cut stone cornice over second stage. Carved shield over entrance to front (east) elevation. Square-headed recessed panel to front having carved stone cherubs. Inset clock with carved stone surround to front. Round-headed openings to each elevation to fourth stage, with carved stone Y-tracery and louvered vents. Paired round-headed window opening to second stage to rear (west) elevation with carved stone surround. Square-headed window opening to second stage to rear having masonry sill. Carved granite cornices and steel latticed windows to second stage openings. Carved limestone keystone and wrought-iron gate to integral arch. Square-headed door opening to interior of arch, with steel door. Forming part of front elevation of walled garden.

This bell tower is conspicuous on the landscape of St. Ann’s estate due to its form and scale. It is ornamental as well as functional, having carved stone which adds decorative interest. The high quality stone masonry contrasts with the yellow brick walls, adding colour and textural interest. Originally, it was inscribed with the name of Benjamin Lee Guinness, as well as his family motto: 'Spes Mea in Deo' (My hope is in God), lending contextual interest. Guinness purchased Thornhill Estate with his brother, Arthur, renaming it St. Ann’s after an adjacent holy well. He set about landscaping the grounds and constructed several Classical and rustic follies, including this tower. This clock would have been visible from the house and within the gardens, while the bell regulated the activities on the estate.