The building was erected in 1684 by the mathematician and astronomer Bishop Seth Ward[1] who was born in the town.

[2] The building, located next to St Peter's Church, is built of brick around three sides of a courtyard.

The heritage listing describes the building as "[a] classical almshouses of 1684 of outstanding interest.

"[1] Having previously been used as the local hospital, the building is now run by a charity to provide accommodation for elderly people in the town.

This article about a Hertfordshire building or structure is a stub.