Wakefield Town Hall

Wakefield Town Hall is a municipal building designed in Gothic Revival style with a balanced three-part facade, ornamental bay windows, and a tall clock tower that rises 59 meters above the street. The interior contains council chambers and ceremonial spaces along with basement areas that once served specific administrative functions.

Construction began in October 1877 under architect Thomas Edward Collcutt to replace an earlier town hall from 1800. Its completion in the late 1800s represented Wakefield's investment in a new symbol of municipal government and civic authority.

The building has served as the civic heart of Wakefield for generations and continues to host official ceremonies and community gatherings. Its rooms reflect the pride local people take in their municipal institutions and civic traditions.

The building is located on Wood Street, a short walk from Wakefield Westgate train station. Since it functions as a working government building, access to the interior may be restricted to specific public events or by prior arrangement.

A tunnel system in the basement connects the courtroom and police cells directly to the adjacent police station. This hidden infrastructure was built to streamline the movement of prisoners and maintain security during the Victorian era.

Location: Wakefield

GPS coordinates: 53.68380,-1.50143

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:03