Renowned Victorian photographer Frederick Downer captured this image of a grand home in Watford that became a well-known club.

The Watford Observer is delighted to share pictures from the Watford Museum archive and this week's image is of Belmont House, now called Northbank House.

The museum’s volunteer archivist Christine Orchard said: “Belmont House was on the large corner plot at the junction of Clarendon Road and Woodford Road and included a library, nine bedrooms and extensive gardens.

Watford Observer: The club in April 1993The club in April 1993 (Image: Newsquest)

“It was originally built as a private house and in 1878 was listed to be sold at auction on behalf of the owner.

“By the 1920s it had become the home of the Watford Trade Unionist and Labour Club and from maps of the time, appears to have been extended.

Watford Observer: The site of Belmont House. Image: Google Street ViewThe site of Belmont House. Image: Google Street View (Image: Google Street View)

“Changes continued to be made and the site is now occupied by a modern block which fills the entire site.”

Watford Museum is open Thursday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm.