[1] Following significant population growth, largely as a result of the status of Newcastle Emlyn as a market town, the area became an urban district in 1894.

The building was designed by David Jenkins of Llandeilo in the Jacobean style, built in rubble masonry and was completed in 1892.

The east end of the main block featured an external staircase leading to a round headed doorway on the first floor.

[8] However, it subsequently became the meeting place of Newcastle Emlyn Town Council,[9] as well as a permanent theatre for "The Attic Players".

[6] Following completion of an extensive programme of refurbishment works carried out by local contractors, Thomas MacRae, which involved the creation of artists' studios on the ground floor, the building was re-opened by Colin Campbell, 7th Earl Cawdor on 10 June 2015.