Plymouth Guildhall
Plymouth Guildhall is located on Guildhall Square in the city centre of Plymouth, Devon, England. It is a Grade II listed building.[1]
| Plymouth Guildhall | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Location | Plymouth, Devon |
| Coordinates | 50.369791°N 4.141469°W |
| Built | 1874 |
| Architect | Norman and Hine |
| Architectural style(s) | Gothic Revival style |
Listed Building – Grade II | |
| Designated | 1 May 1975 |
| Reference no. | 1113280 |
  Location of Plymouth Guildhall in Devon | |
History
The building, which was designed by Norman and Hine of Plymouth with artistic direction by Edward William Godwin in the Gothic Revival style, was built between 1870 and 1874.[1] The Guildhall and the surrounding buildings were reduced to shells during the Plymouth Blitz of the Second World War.[1] Paton Watson and Patrick Abercombie envisaged a Beaux Arts city which would have involved the demolition of the Guildhall: their proposal was rejected by one council vote in 1951.[1] The restoration of the Guildhall, which involved a new roof, entrances and interior, was undertaken between 1951 and 1959.[1]
Description
Plymouth Guildhall is currently a multi-purpose venue, hosting a range of events throughout the year including graduations, award ceremonies, weddings and civil ceremonies.[2] Fourteen stained glass windows line the sides of the hall and depict notable moments in Plymouth’s history.[3] A large tapestry hangs at the front and depicts the 'Miraculous Drought of Fishes'.[3] It has hosted many famous performers including Status Quo, Queen and Julian Lloyd Webber.[4]
References
- Historic England. "Guildhall including Great Hall, Assize Courts and former City Treasury, City of Plymouth (1113280)". National Heritage List for England. Retrieved 26 August 2019.
- "Plymouth Guildhall". www.plymouth.gov.uk. Retrieved 2018-12-01.
- "Celebrate, Share, Love Your Guildhall" (PDF). Retrieved 26 August 2019.
- "The Great Hall". www.plymouth.gov.uk. Retrieved 26 August 2019.