The Guildhall

The Guildhall is a Grade I listed building located on the west side of Beverley Register Square. It dates back to the 15th century and underwent internal alterations between 1762 and 1764 by William Middleton. The front of the building features a portico designed by Charles Mountain Jnr in 1832, constructed from sandstone ashlar. This portico has a tetrastyle Greek mutular Doric design that reaches full height and is topped with a triangular pediment. The columns are fluted up to about 5 feet above the ground. The central doorway is adorned with an architrave, frieze, consoles, and cornice, while two windows on either side also have architraves and cornices. Above the first floor, there is a band and a large projecting tablet.

Inside, the Guildhall is particularly notable for its Court Room, which boasts a coved plaster ceiling intricately decorated by Guiseppe Cortese, featuring a bas-relief of Justice at its center. Cortese also created the impressive Royal and Town arms. Other original interior fittings include Chippendale chairs and stucco work on the walls. The small stair features Doric columns and matching balusters that were originally part of Hawksmoor's Minister galleries, removed in 1826. The richly carved frame of the Mayor's seat is inspired by the third edition of Chippendale's 'Director' by Edmund Foster of Hull. The Apsidal Jury Room has panelled walls and a fine chimney piece, along with a judgement seat dating back to 1604. The Mayor's parlour, added around 1836, is a top-lighted room. Photograph.