History
The plaque above the anterior Arch states JHG 1854. The assumption being that the building along with other farm buildings in the area were instigated by John Henry Gurney Snr who resided at Northrepps Hall during that period.
History tells us that the Gurney family who were both landowners and bankers) existed in Northrepps and surrounding areas many hundreds of years ago. Infamously one Thomas Gourney was said to be responsible for the murder of King Edward II in 1327 and latterly it is said that their banking fortune took a turn for the worse during a gambling session with the Barclays who are of course still recognised as bankers today.
The Gurney family has a wealth of history attached to it, some of which can be found by reading ‘ The Northrepps’ Grandchildren by Verily Anderson
The building was constructed from flint and lime mortar. Granaries were usually constructed of wood and built on supports to keep the structure off the ground to protect the stored grain from vermin. Due to several alterations over the years it is hard to say whether The Granary at Northrepps was ever higher than ground level, we do however know that 10” beneath the car park area is in fact a cobbled area. Our restoration also revealed a second arch to the rear of the original building ( above the breakfast room) which would have complemented the front arch and which is thought to be lower, as carts required a larger entrance than exit, as they would have been laden with grain.
The primary purpose of The Granary when it was a Granary would have been to keep grain dry to prevent mildew. It would also have to be secure to protect its contents from thieves. It is interesting to note that natural flint and lime mortar allows a building to breathe and hence prevent dampness, even today.
Records show that 1771 a Norwich textile business was aquired by the Gurneys who in 1815 were joined by partner and local land owner Edmund Sparshall. Sparshall diversified to seed, corn, hops, wine and spirits, a business which thrived whilst the textile trade declined. The construction of the Granary in 1854 would certainly support this piece of history.
5 STAR RATING
VISIT BRITAIN
23.04.08
The Granary
big holiday home north Norfolk coast,The Granary is a Grade II listed 6 bedroom holiday home based in Northrepps and walking distance to the popular North Norfolk Coast. It has 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, vaulted kitchen & dining area and a large lounge with a multi fuel stove. Additionally there is a large play room, with snooker / pool / darts, an enclosed garden and the nearest pub is a 2 minute walk,big holiday home, 5 star norfolk holiday home,north Norfolk coast, the granary northrepps, holiday home sleeps 12, Norfolk holiday home sleeps 12, Norfolk holiday home converted barn,North Norfolk holiday cottage, north Norfolk holiday home, cromer holiday cottage, Norfolk country cottages, Norfolk English country cottage, short break luxury holiday, holiday accommodation Norfolk, self catering accommodation Norfolk, north Norfolk holiday cottages, glaven valley, Norfolk bird watchers, Norfolk holidays
