More information : [SK 9297 3929] Belton House [TI]. (1)
Belton House was built in 1685-8 by Sir John Brownlow, to
replace the old manor-house which he pulled down.
The building is H-shaped, much as originally planned, though
somewhat altered in 1777. A fine late 17th century example. (2-3)
An outstanding country house; open to the public. [See
illustration card.]
No alternative site was established for the original manor
house. (4)
Belton House - Grade I
Very fine mansion of late 17C said to be built from designs by
Wren, 1689, and altered by Wyatt 1775. H. plan. Ashlar. 2
storeys and basement. Main front faces S, with 2-window
projecting wings, an 11-window front, including these, and
centre breaking forward with 3 windows. Eodillion cornice and
pediment, with central stone cartouche of arms. Old slate roof
with alternating gabled and segmental dormers. 7 moulded stone
stacks. A balustrade along the ridges of the roofs and a
central lantern have been added. Stone rusticated quoins and
band, and panels above each window except the central 2nd
floor, which has a pulvinated frieze and small cornice. Central
door-case with engaged columns and frieze with Adam type
ornament and small modillion cornice. Double 6-panel doors.
Stone steps leading to door, with balustrade and urns. Interior
contains much fine contemporary ornament, notably in the
Chapel, which has woodwork of the Grinling Gibbons type. Fully
described and photographed in "Country Life" also Arch. Journal,
1946. Vol. CIII, 192-193. (5)
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