Guildhall Theatre

A moot hall was first established in the Market Place area in 1204. This was replaced by a timber and plaster guildhall in 1500 which, in turn, made way for a stone guildhall which was designed by Richard Jackson in the Classical style and completed in 1730. The next structure, which was designed by Matthew Habershon also in the Classical style, was built slightly to the south of the previous structures and was completed in 1828. (Whitehurst's clock, retained from the old guildhall, was installed within the pediment of the new building). On 21 October 1841, Habershon's guildhall was severely damaged by a fire, which left only the centre and outer walls standing. and was topped by a cupola…