Guildford Guildhall


The Guildford Guildhall is a Guildhall located on the High Street of the town of Guildford, Surrey. It is a Grade I listed building.

History

The Guildhall, which was initially used as a courtroom, was built around 1550. It was substantially refurbished with a new council chamber being installed at the front of the building in 1683. The facade, which features the iconic projecting clock, was also constructed at that time. The clock was presented to the council by a London clockmaker, John Aylward, in return for being allowed to trade in the borough. The panelling in the council chamber was taken from Stoughton Manor House shortly before it was demolished in the late 17th century.
The ornamental cupola is a replica erected in 1882. During much of the 20th century the town hall served as the meeting place of the Municipal Borough of Guildford but, since 1974, when the amalgamation of the municipal borough of Guildford and Guildford Rural District took place, the amalgamated council has met at Millmead House.

Present

Guided tours of the Guildhall are conducted bi-weekly. The Guildhall is also available for private hire.