NHER 6814 (Building record) - Gunton Tower

Called an observatory by (S1); probably a prospect tower though said to have been once a lodge and to have been built in 1830. Yellow brick; rises from arch at centre of four curving wings walls, two curving to south and two to north. In each of these are three arched windows, some blank. Another blank one is set in the end of each wing. Rusticated pilasters at corners. Archway has four giant pilasters; pair each side of the arch, and between these and the outer ones are rectangular windows below circular ones. Above them, a balustrade. Tower rises over arch only, with twin arched windows; above this a glazed storey with detached angle pilasters (two at each corner). Whole about 37m (120ft) high excluding finial. Carriageway (now blocked) under arch is groin-vaulted with large doorway each side, and iron gates. Part of original wooden stair survives in top storey. It appears that all the windows in wing walls were originally blank, probably the interiors were yards, and later windows were knocked in, the tops of the arches blocked in red brick, and lean-to buildings with chimneys constructed against the insides. Date of 1830 probably correct - not part of Wyatt's work. Has been vandalised and emergency repairs carried out, now due for restoration.
E. Rose (NAU) 5 November 1981.

Newspaper cuttings (S2), (S3) and (S4) in file.
Report in file.
Building now fully restored. Listed Grade LBII*.
E. Rose (NAU) 19 August 1989.

Architects drawings (pre 1992) as large rolled plans.
E. Rose (NAU).

Interestingly enough, Bryant's map 1826 shows a kiln, apparently on this site, before the tower was built.
E. Rose (NLA) 22 May 2001.