It was designed by George Vialls in the Italianate style, built in rubble masonry and stucco, and was officially opened by the mayor, Zachery Edwards, on 21 January 1889.

To the right of the main frontage, there was a doorway giving access to the lock-up,[10] and, at the right-hand corner, a three-stage round tower with a conical roof.

A stone carved with the Royal coat of arms of King Charles II, which had been recovered from the first guildhall, was installed above the mayor's seat.

[11] The guildhall continued to serve as the local seat of government until the enlarged West Dorset District Council was formed in 1974.

[14] A plaque commemorating the life of Sir George Somers, who had served as mayor and local member of parliament in the 17th century, was unveiled by Princess Alexandra, as part of celebrations for the 700th anniversary of the granting of the town's charter, on 8 May 1984.