Leicester Guildhall

The Guildhall in Leicester is a Grade I listed timber framed building, with the earliest part dating from c1390. The Guildhall once acted as the town hall for the city until the current one was commissioned in 1876.

Although some parts are earlier, the majority of the building dates from the 15th century. It's located in the old walled city, on a street now known as Guildhall Lane. It was used first as the meeting place for the Guild of Corpus Christi and then later for the more formal Corporation of Leicester. The hall was used for many purposes, including council meetings, feasts, as a courtroom, and the ultimatum given to the city during English civil war was discussed and for theatrical performances.

History

The Great Hall was built around 1390 as the meeting place of the Guild of Corpus Christi; the guild was a group of businessmen and gentry who had religious connections. The Guildhall was used for banquets, festivals, and as a home for a priest who prayed for the souls of Guild members in the nearby St Martin's Church. The Corporation of Leicester bought the Guildhall by the end of the 14th century.

During the English civil war the Mayor and corporation received a demand from Prince Rupert a demand for £2000. The decision was made at the Guildhall to offer a loan of £500 and made an appeal to King Charles I. In May 1645 the King in attempt to divert attention away from Oxford...
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