Guildhall, Exeter, Devon

A familiar sight in Exeter's High Street, the Guildhall is one of the oldest municipal buildings in Britain and also reputed to be the oldest civic building still in use today, spanning a term of over 800 years. A Grade I listed building, it is also a scheduled ancient monument; the earliest reference to it in a deed of 1160. The present structure is mainly Mediaeval.

The pillared front portico was added in 1593, constructed with Beer Stone (taken from the quarry situated above Beer Village) as was the rest of the frontage. During recent renovation it was discovered that it was once painted in cream, the details coloured with typically Mediaeval red and blue, and the pillars in gilt.

The magnificent carved oak door is also dated 1593 and was made by local carpenter Nicholas Baggett. A short anteroom beyond it leads into the main hall, used as the city council chamber. 

The chamber is dated 1468-70 and still consists of the original arch-braced roof; its main trusses resting on corbels carved into grotesque animals of a dog/wolf-like nature. However, apart from the roof and chandelier, the rest of the interior was extensively refurbished in the Victorian era. The stained glass, stone floor, gallery and furnishings were all added circa 1863, and the Tudor panelling was heavily restored in 1887.

 

Wooden seating situated around the wall was centered before the bench for court trials, which the chamber was used for until recent times, and is positioned around the central table for current council meetings.

The chandelier was bought in 1789 from Thomas Pyke of Bridgwater, at a cost of £28.13s.

The walls were built using Heavitree Stone, a volcanic stone indigenous to the Heavitree area of Exeter. Those and the side windows were constructed around 1460, whereas the main window at the far end is Victorian.

The panelling contains the shields and names of past mayors, recorders and other civic dignitaries, some dating from the 12th century. Unfortunately my photo below couldn't quite pick up the name and date plate details - I'm not tall enough! The carving, however, is totally delightful and each panel varies in detail.

There are several portraits adorning the walls, one of which is Princess Henrietta Anne, daughter of Charles I. The Princess was born in Exeter's Bedford House in 1644, and the painting was presented to the city by her brother, Charles II.

The balcony at the entrance end, below.

Unfortunately, I neglected to take photos of the portraits as I was so engrossed with the architecture and other features, running out of time in the process. Because the Guildhall is still in use, finding it open to the public is a bit hit and miss. Therefore my mission of the day was to see if it was open, take photos, then get the film processed before catching the next bus home. I was delighted to eventually go inside though, as it's not only steeped in history, but is wonderful to see.

 
Above, more photos of the entrance hall. And finally, a couple more of the fabulous portico.