Coggeshall Grange Barn

Coggeshall Grange Barn is a historic timber-framed barn located in Coggeshall, Essex, England. The barn is a Grade I listed building and a well-known heritage site in the area. It is believed to have been constructed in the early 13th century, making it one of the oldest surviving timber-framed barns in the country.

The barn is an impressive structure, measuring approximately 180 feet in length and 40 feet in width. It features a traditional cruck frame design, with curved timbers supporting the roof. The walls are made of weatherboarding, and the roof is covered with clay tiles. The barn's interior is characterized by a vast open space, devoid of any internal divisions.

Over the centuries, the barn has served various purposes, including storing agricultural produce and housing livestock. It was part of a larger complex known as Coggeshall Grange, which was a medieval monastic site founded by Cistercian monks in the 13th century. The barn would have been a vital part of the grange's agricultural operations, supporting the self-sufficiency of the monastic community.

Today, Coggeshall Grange Barn is managed by the National Trust and is open to the public. It offers a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the craftsmanship of medieval timber-framed architecture. Visitors can admire the barn's impressive structure, learn about its historical significance, and discover more about the lives of the monks who once inhabited the site. The barn also hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.