Devonport Guildhall

Devonport Guildhall is a Grade I listed town hall featuring Greek Doric architectural elements with a prominent entrance and symmetrical window arrangements on multiple levels. Inside, a converted courtroom and Mayor's Parlour retain their historical finishes and now accommodate modern conferences and exhibitions.

Built between 1821 and 1824 by architect John Foulston, this building originally served as a municipal hall, courthouse, mortuary, and police station. It survived World War II intact despite heavy bombing in Plymouth and was temporarily converted into a distribution center for gas masks.

The building now hosts the Real Ideas Campus and serves as a gathering place for community events, small businesses, and creative projects. Locals and visitors use it for workshops, exhibitions, and meetings, giving the space a contemporary cultural role.

Plan your visit during open hours, which should be checked in advance since the building is centrally located in Devonport and easily accessible by foot. Some areas may be accessible only during special events or exhibitions, so checking ahead helps avoid disappointment.

The building was one of the few structures in Plymouth to survive the intense bombing of World War II intact, while surrounding areas were heavily damaged. This survival made it a valuable testament to the city's wartime experience.

Location: City of Plymouth

GPS coordinates: 50.36900,-4.17628

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:02