Guildhall, High Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme

Description:A view of the rear of the Guildhall, looking down the High Street. The Guildhall was built in 1713 and has undergone a number of changes. Originally the ground floor was open and was used for markets, until the Market Hall was built in 1854. In 1860, in order to provide more space, the ground floor arches were bricked up and clock tower with four clocks were added. The top rooms in the Guildhall were used for meetings by the Borough council and its committees, until 1860.

In front of the Guildhall can be seen the Market Cross, which originally stood in the centre of the High Street, opposite the end of the Ironmarket. The Market Cross has undergone some restoration in its time and in 1820 it was moved to its present location. At some point a Roman Doric column and lamp were added to the medieval steps.