Down Farm Barn – 'Crimea' barn

Down Farm Barn, now known as Crimea Barn because it dates from the 1850s, is the prominent Sussex-flint L shaped building at the junction of Green Lane with Chalton Lane. Until fifty years or so ago, it was an isolated landmark, also visible from the Portsmouth to London Road and people travelling down Chalton Lane would have passed it, indicating they were nearing the tiny village of Clanfield.

Contemporary maps show a pond almost the length of the barn to the west of the building; probably used to water thirsty, travelled horses, as well as local farm animals.

Until very recently, the barn was in use as a livery stable and several hay-filled stalls remain. There is also evidence that various species of bat have used it.

This lovely barn, part of Clanfield's fast-disappearing heritage has now been saved from the wrecking ball but funds are now needed to renovate and secure the building.

There are many proposals to what the building will be used for the suggestions are part of it will be used as a parish office, village museum and general offices.

Amongst other displays, a village museum could tell the story of the village and pay tribute to those residents who served in two world and other wars, to whom the barn would have been a familiar site. There is also the opportunity for bats to be encouraged to roost and hibernate there.