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900 Years of History
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Journey back through history in the most atmospheric building in Totnes.
The Guildhall, peacefully situated on Ramparts Walk, behind the Church in
the busy High Street, is full of fascinating objects and memories.
The Guildhall was originally the Refectory (dining room) of the
Benedictine Priory, founded in 1088. It was rebuilt as the meeting place of
the Merchant Guild, the body of leading citizens who ran the town, in 1553.
Since then it has been the home of the Town Council and over 600 mayors are
listed in gold leaf on the boards in the lower hall. |
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From 1624 to 1974 the building was used for the local magistrates’
court, and the Town Gaol was in use until 1887. See the original cells ,
where prisoners awaited trial and punishment, then climb the 17th century
stairs to the elegant Council Chamber, with its plaster frieze and the table
where Oliver Cromwell sat in 1646. Admire the ceremonial robes, most of them
still in use, in the Mayor’s Parlour.
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The Guildhall is behind St Mary's Church in the High Street, Totnes
Open 2nd April - 26th October, Monday to Friday, 10.30am - 4.30pm (last entry
4.00pm)
Tel: 01803 862147
e-mail:
office@totnestowncouncil.gov.uk
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