Farmstead record LUD 101 - Top Barns

Top Barns comprises two parallel, open-fronted, single storey brick ranges each aligned on N/S axis with an enclosed yard between. Originally there was a third range on an E/W axis linking the N ends of the two parallel ranges but this was demolished in the late 20th century after 1971. The open yard between the ranges was originally divided into two sections. The W range and demolished N range date from the early 19th century and are shown on the 1884 OS map. The E range is later in date and was added between 1884 and 1927. At some point after 1969, probably in the 1970s, the W and E ranges were extended into the central yard by the addition of two open-fronted, timber-framed shelters with corrugated metal roofs. Documentary evidence shows that the site has been associated with Manor Farm (and by extension with the Peto and the Crossley families) since at least the early 19th century and most probably since the 17th century when the farmhouse (Mardle House) was built (S1)