Hambrook was designated as a conservation area on 30th July 1975. A copy of the full statutory conservation area leaflet and maps - the result of a public consultation process, can now be downloaded in Adobe Acrobat pdf format.
Setting
The village of Hambrook is situated to the north of Bristol close to the M4 and M32 motorways and the Avon Ring Road. The busy B4058 commuter route passes through the village, but despite the traffic, Hambrook retains its village character and contains a number of fine buildings set in an attractive wooded environment.
History
At the time of the Domesday Book, Hambrook was a separate manor but later joined with the manor of Winterbourne. Wood was the principal industry of the area and the village had its own wool factory. At the beginning of this century there was also an old mill used for corn grinding, but its ruins disappeared when the motorway was constructed.
Within the village there are a number of listed buildings, including Hambrook Grove, an 18th century house now a hotel. Hambrook House (grade II-listed) is of 17th century origin and was refaced in 1784. To the rear of this property is an icehouse (grade II-listed). This is a domed stone structure sunk into the ground and surmounted by the top 6 metres of the spire of Winterbourne Church which was damaged by lightning in 1871. This structure has recently been restored.
The 18th century Hambrook Court was once tenanted by Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas Brereton who commanded the troops during the Bristol Riots of 1831 and who unfortunately committed suicide because of the general condemnation over his lack of strong action against the rioters.
Character
A natural centre to the village is formed by the junction of Bristol Road and the B4427. The buildings around it form an important group and contribute to the overall character of the area. The short terrace of cottages and the detached house of Evan Coyd create a visual enclosure at the junction as well as providing architectural variety to the street scene.
Hambrook Court and Hambrook Grove are also strong and important features, with their impressive boundary walls and wooded grounds which make a significant contribution to the landscape.
To the south of Hambrook, Hambrook House and The Grange (grade II-listed) provide visual interest, grand in style and size. Their high stone walls and mature trees add to the street scene creating the effect of an imposing avenue leading up to the junction on the brow of the hill.
To the west of the village along the stream, varied and interesting houses are further enhanced by a reen flowing alongside the road. Picturesque white railings bordering the stream complete the tranquil setting.
At the end of the road the 17th century Faber Farm (grade II*-listed) and Hambrook Farm (grade II-listed) are prominent, their imposing size and gabled features adding variety and grandeur to the streetscape.