The Round House

The Round House is a three-story building with a circular floor plan, roughcast walls, and a brick chimney stack rising through its center. The entrance features a stone-framed doorway accessed by seven steps, creating a distinctive approach to the structure.

The building was constructed in the late 18th century to serve as a lock keeper's residence along the waterway. It was built during the period when canal transportation was essential for moving goods and materials through the region.

The building demonstrates an unusual architectural style rarely seen in rural homes of that era. Its circular form was an experimental approach to residential design that gained attention during the Georgian period.

The building sits at the junction of two waterways and is best reached via the canal network or footpaths along the water's edge. Keep in mind this is a private property viewable from exterior vantage points only.

The curved walls are punctuated by pointed arch windows distributed around each floor, offering unusual sightlines across the surrounding waters. This window placement was a practical design choice that allowed the occupant to monitor the junction from multiple angles.

Location: Lechlade

GPS coordinates: 51.68753,-1.70545

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:53