Building record 1499800000 - The Swan & Castle, 52 Lower Street, Quainton

Late C19 public house prominently positioned at a pinch point in Lower Street and close to
Townsend. Two storeys with two gable ranges fronting onto Lower Street. The building sits
beneath gabled roofs laid in tiles with prominent chimney stacks. The building has a pleasing
asymmetry to its design which adds to its architectural interest. The right hand (facing) range
extends forward of the left and is articulated by an over-sailing first storey supported at ground
floor by a glazed canted bay. The left hand (facing) storey is articulated by an oriel window at first
floor level and applied timber framing in the apex of the roof. Constructed of brick the first floor of
each range is partly rendered. Both gables facing onto Lower Street are adorned with decorative
detailing, that to the right (facing) includes floral swags and representations of a swan and castle.
Decorative plasterwork also extends to the first floor side elevation seen from Townsend and
includes the date 1888). This building is significant not only for its form and surviving architectural
features but also in terms of its contribution to the social history of Quainton. It is an example of a
building that was built for a particular purpose and which through its architectural and decorative
detailing advertised its function. It once formed an important social focus to the community and its
decorative flamboyance as well as prominent location makes it an important visual landmark within
the village. Local Heritage Asset in conservation area (1).