8 and 9 Cathedral Close

This attractive group of three buildings, with a central courtyard, next to the Devon and Exeter Institution, was constructed for the use of the Cathedral Canons and dates from about 1500.

It has a medieval hall, which was used for many years as a Law Library. Over the Tudor entrance are the arms of the Chancellor of the Cathedral. The fine hammer beam roof constructed from oak timbers bears some similarity to that of Westminster Hall in London. The two large arches that divide the roof into three are supported by ornamental stone corbels, carved into angels and lions. Some of the internal walls have surviving wall paintings and the hall retains some fine carvings. At the rear is an arched braced roof.

The northern end of the building, the rear section, was rebuilt around about 1700, and has a fine brick built façade. The front is timber framed over a red sandstone ground floor.

In 1897 the Law Library Society and Exeter Law Society occupied the buildings. By 1972 the premises were home to a firm of solicitors – the last occupiers were V A Donson, and Ford Simey in the rear, both solicitors. In 2008, Wetherspoon's, the pub chain applied for planning permission to turn the premises into a pub and restaurant, but were turned down. The building is Grade 1 listed.

Source: Exeter City Guide Books and trade directories..