Guildhall

Harwich Guildhall is a Grade I listed municipal building on Church Street in Harwich, Essex, on England's east coast. It is still in civic use today, as the home of Harwich Town Council, and makes a short but rewarding stop in the old part of this port town.

What is it and where is it?

The Guildhall stands in Harwich's historic centre on Church Street, a few minutes' walk from the quayside and the old lanes that recall the town's long role as a port and North Sea crossing point. It is built of red brick with stone dressings in the Georgian style, and its present form dates from 1769, although the site's story goes back much further. Its coordinates are roughly 51.946 N, 1.288 E.

A short history

The first building here was a public house called "The Bear", known from at least the mid-17th century. In 1673 Harwich Borough Council acquired it, moving from an earlier guildhall at St Austin's Gate. Sources describe the split between late 17th-century fabric and the 1769 additions in slightly different ways, but the building has served as both town hall and guildhall.

In 1974, after local government reorganisation, the Guildhall became the home of Harwich Town Council, which carried out a restoration. The work uncovered a medieval wall painting and a set of engravings. Records link the engravings to prisoners, since the building once held a lock-up, and later even housed the police station.

What can you see inside?

• The council chamber, an oak-panelled room hung with portraits and lit by a stained-glass window showing the town crest.
• The Carvings Room, once used to hold people awaiting trial or sentencing by a judge, where the engravings survive.
• Documents linking Harwich with Samuel Pepys, the Pilgrim Fathers and the settlement of Virginia.

Is it worth a visit?

Yes, if you enjoy local history, Georgian architecture or exploring Essex's port towns. It is not an all-day attraction, but it fits neatly into a walk around old Harwich alongside the waterfront and nearby historic streets. Because it is a working civic building, check opening and visiting arrangements with the town council or the local tourist information before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Harwich Guildhall? On Church Street in the historic centre of Harwich, Essex, United Kingdom.

How old is the building? Its present form dates from 1769 and is Georgian in style, while the site has been linked with the town since the 17th century.

Is it still in use? Yes. Since 1974 it has housed Harwich Town Council.

Why are there engravings inside? According to available accounts, they are linked to prisoners held in the building's former lock-up.

Is this the same as the Guildhall in Vermont? No. "Guildhall" is a common name; this one is in Harwich, England.