Home > Northamptonshire > Towcester > The Talbot The Talbot
	Click above photo to expand		Picture source: Hania Franek
The Talbot was situated at 187 Watling Street. A grade-II listed former inn and the Talbot Hotel until 1960. Before 1643 known as the Tabard, at least as early as 1440, when purchased by Archdeacon Sponne as part of the endowments of his charity. Mid 18th century altered in the 20th century with earlier origins. Remained in the ownership of Sponne charity until 1895. Described as a Commercial Inn and Posting House in the mid to late 19th century, the directories list, 1841 George Heady, 1854 John Tunnard, 1876 Joseph Higham, 1889-1903 Charles Edward Sanders, 1906 James Whitlock and 1914 Charles G Johnson. It is now used as Sponne House shopping centre.
Source: Steve Turner
Listed building details:
Bank and shops, formerly inn. Mid C18, altered C20, with earlier origins. Red brick in Flemish bond, slate roof, brick ridge stack. L-plan. 2 storeys and attic; 5-window range. Central carriage arch with depressed-arched- ead and imposts. C20 canted bay window to right, C20 door to left with panelled reveals, reeded pilasters and cornice/hood. 12-pane sash window to far left with moulded stone sill, gauged brick lintel and keyblock. Similar windows to first floor except for central Venetian window with open pediment. Moulded stone eaves. Wing to rear right with many C20 alterations. Optician's shop in this wing has large open fireplace with cambered ogee-stop-chamfered bressumer inscribed TO 1707 GS with a central carving of a talbot dog. Until 1960 the Talbot Hotel. Before 1643 known as the Tabard, at least as early as 1440, when purchased by Archdeacon Sponne (q.v. Church of St. Lawrence) as part of the endowments of his charity. Remained in the ownership of Sponne charity until 1895.
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Other Photos
Picture source: Hania Franek
Date of photo: 2012		Photo © Jo Turner