The Grade II* listed Guildhall is situated in the centre of Barnstaple on the corner of the High Street and Butchers Row. The magnificent Main Council Chamber, previously the Town's Court Room, is the scene for many of Barnstaple's most important events, including Mayor Making and the annual Barnstaple Fair Proclamation Ceremony. The recently restored portraits of Councillors from days gone by cover the walls, while above the main bench are portraits of Barnstaple's great benefactor William Rock, and the Barnstaple born poet and playwright John Gay.