Barn at Plas Uchaf

Cadw's description

Location

The farmyard is on the E side of the lane, opposite the house to the W. The barn is at right angles to the road in the centre of the farmyard complex.

History

The barn is shown on a map of the Mostyn estate dated 1742. The front reveals signs of historic alteration, with stone and brick patching, whilst the roof with its King-post trusses was probably replaced in the early C19. The lower range to the R is likely to have been built as a milking parlour in the late C19-early C20.

Exterior

Large 5-bay barn constructed of rubble stone under a slate roof with crow-stepped gables and plinth. Offset to the R is a wide opening, which has been altered, with a recessed door under an iron lintel reached by a high step. Some brick patching to far R and angle buttress. To the L are 3 stone-lined ventilation slits, the central one extended downwards in brick. Beneath the L slit is a doorway with stone jambs and lintel, containing a boarded door. One large and 3 small skylights to roof pitch. Blocked loft opening to W gable end. The rear is obscured by a large open hay shed but includes double doors, a window and loft hatch. Lower range added to E end, consisting of 4 planked doors under stone lintels with 2 planked window openings to the R of each one in stone surrounds. Three skylights.

Interior

The interior contains substantial King-post trusses, the central posts chamfered and with curved struts. Two pairs of purlins. Cart passage with planked doors to rear and planked partition to L side which would have supported a loft. A brick structure has been constructed to the R of the cart passage, associated with former milking activities. The range to the R was formerly used for milking; the roof has closely spaced rafters and collars, the stalls divided by open steel railings. It is now used for storing grain.

Reason for designation

Listed as a large early barn in an estate context retaining its character and for group value with Plas Uchaf.