Grange Barn, Coggeshall


Grange Barn is a historic timber-framed building in Coggeshall, Essex, England. Grange Barn was built by the Cistercians in the 13th century to serve Coggeshall Abbey. It underwent significant structural alteration in the 14th century. It is Grade I listed.
The barn is 36.57 metres long, 13.71 metres wide and 10.67 metres high. For comparison, England's largest medieval barn, Harmondsworth Great Barn, is 58.55 metres long, 11.3 metres wide, and 11.9 metres high. The barn has a nave and two aisles. There are two midstreys which would have provided access for wagons: these are 18th century.

History

Coggeshall Abbey was about a quarter of a mile away and most of its buildings have not survived, but despite the dissolution of the Abbey in the 1530s, the barn remained in continual agricultural use up until 1960 when it was left derelict. It was listed, and in 1982 it was compulsorily purchased by Braintree District Council, who initiated the restoration of the barn, with the work being completed in 1985. The restoration received a Europa Nostra award.
In 1989 the barn was given to the National Trust for its future preservation.
The intention is to present the structure as it was in the 14th century, although the roof is tiled rather than covered with the original thatch.

Access

Grange Barn is open to the public showing a collection of farm wagons and woodworking tools. It is available to hire for special events, including weddings.