[1] The first building on the site was an early 16th century "brewhouse" established by the Earl of Northumberland, as lord of the manor, before passing into private hands and then being acquired by the burgesses in 1585.

[2] By the late 17th century the building was in a dilapidated state and the burgesses decided to demolish it and to erect a bespoke town hall in its place.

[1] Internally, the principal room was the public hall, which was used for meetings of the common council, as well as quarter sessions hearings.

[2] In the early 19th century theatrical events took place in the town hall with Stephen Kemble playing Falstaff there.

[6] Its borough council, which met in the town hall, was abolished under the Municipal Corporations Act 1883.