The Grade II* listed Guildhall is situated in the centre of Barnstaple on the corner of the High Street and Butchers Row. The magnificent Main Council Chamber, previously the Town's Court Room, is the scene for many of Barnstaple's most important events, including Mayor Making and the annual Barnstaple Fair Proclamation Ceremony. The recently restored portraits of Councillors from days gone by cover the walls, while above the main bench are portraits of Barnstaple's great benefactor William Rock, and the Barnstaple born poet and playwright John Gay.
The paintings are all held at Barnstaple Guildhall. Not all of the paintings are openly available to the public so if you would like to view a specific work then please contact the collection to save disappointment. Guided Tours of Barnstaple Guildhall are available on most Saturdays during the summer season between 10am and 2 pm, or group tours can be booked all year round by calling Barnstaple Heritage Centre on 01271 373003.