Town Hall

Lynton Town Hall is a Grade II* listed building on Lee Road in Lynton, North Devon. Built at the very end of the 19th century, it combines a neo-Tudor look with Art Nouveau details, and it owes its existence to one of the town's best-known benefactors, the publisher Sir George Newnes.

What is Lynton Town Hall?

The building was constructed as the seat of local government. It was the meeting place of Lynton Urban District Council, and for decades it served as the civic centre of the town. Today it is protected as a listed structure, and the Grade II* status places it among the more significant historic buildings in the area.

Who paid for it?

Sir George Newnes, a publisher, financed the project. He also owned Hollerday House, which stood just behind the site, so the town hall was built practically in his own neighbourhood. Historic England describes him as a major benefactor to the town, and the local heritage record credits him with funding several public buildings in Lynton, including the Congregational Church. The town hall is the most visible reminder of that generosity.

When was it built?

The foundation stone was laid in 1898. Accounts give the date as 11 May 1898 and name Mrs Ada Medland Jeune as the person who laid it. The building was opened on 15 August 1900, and Newnes opened it himself. Historic England records the cost as £20,000, a considerable sum for a small coastal town at the time.

Who designed it?

The architects were Read and Macdonald of London, and the contractor was Bob Jones. Their design is described as neo-Tudor with Art Nouveau touches. Look for the mix of historic-revival styling and the more decorative details typical of the turn of the century.

What is it used for today?

The building is no longer the seat of a district council. A community bookshop now occupies one of the ground-floor rooms, which makes it easy to step inside and see a little of the interior while browsing.

Visiting tips

• Where: Lee Road, in the centre of Lynton.
• What to look at: the facade and its neo-Tudor and Art Nouveau details.
• Inside: the community bookshop on the ground floor is the simplest way in.
• Good to combine with: a walk around the rest of Lynton and a look for other buildings connected with Sir George Newnes.

Frequently asked questions

Is Lynton Town Hall listed? Yes, it is a Grade II* listed building.

Who opened it? Sir George Newnes opened the building on 15 August 1900.

Who were the architects? Read and Macdonald of London.

How much did it cost? Historic England gives the cost as £20,000.

Can I go inside? A community bookshop operates in one of the ground-floor rooms. Opening hours are best checked locally before your visit.