Sometimes called Ty Mawr or Upper House, its association with the Nicholl family goes back to their first arrival in the parish in the Elizabethan period. The building originally consisted of a square central section to which a southern wing was added providing further accommodation, and a northern wing made up of a stable and dovecot. At the end of the nineteenth century the building fell into disrepair. After several half-hearted attempts at restoration the house became habitable again in the 1950’s.

This photo must date from before 1905 when the thatched roof on Downcross was replaced. The fine Tudor mansion, Great House, (Ty Mawr or Upper House ) can be seen in the centre. To the left, under the arch, is Samson or Nancy’s Well.