Paragon Tower

Cadw's description

Location

High on the mountainside of Allt-yr-Esgair E of Newton. Reached by track from Tal-y-bryn to E.

History

Probably built early - mid C19 as a folly and as a focus for riding, hunting or walking expeditions. It is likely to have been associated with the large Buckland Estate but as the Gwynne Holfords also had nearer lands to the east it is equally possible that it related to Treholford which was built in 1796 and enlarged in 1837. Plan as at present on Tithe of 1841.

Exterior

A circular building, no longer complete, of stone rubble with dressed stone dressings; joist holes are evidence of a former timber roof. Large central circular chimney with narrow stringcourse and a circular external wall, the space between divided by angled walls into 4 wedge-shaped rooms each with a fireplace. These are low and with narrow voussoirs with the chimney breast above curving outwards; above are angled joist holes. Dividing walls do not meet the external wall allowing a circuit walk just inside; external walls have pointed arched entrance doorways , some still complete, some blocked, the main entrance group of 3 facing W all retain their heads; signs of former internal and external lime render. Extending to right is a slightly curved wall and damaged entrance to a now ruinous roughly rectangular wing. To left a longer wall with a more pronounced curve with blind archway - apparently an original feature - extends towards a separate rectangular building standing roughly to wallplate and gable level with dividing internal ground floor wall. To rear is a ruined retaining wall to the hillside terrace on which this building complex stands.

Reason for designation

Included as the remains of an unusual earlier C19 recreational building with picturesque connotations.