Faversham had 3 guildhalls in the Tudor period. Little other than location is known about the 2 earlier guildhalls but the 3rd, with timber arcades open at the ground level, is still located at the N end of the marketplace.
The Elizabethan hall was on the upper storey but the early 19th c. renovation removed all traces of the original.
As the seat of civic government and centre for festive occasions, Faversham's Guildhall was probably the venue for most performances by touring entertainers before the mayor and city officials between 1514 and 1624, the period during which relevant payments were recorded.
Extant and still in use for meetings of the Faversham Town Council.
1547 New guildhall built over the gaol on the E side of Court Street. A previous guildhall of uncertain date existed in Tanners Street.
1574 New market hall built in the marketplace.
1604 Market hall converted for use as the 3rd guildhall for Faversham.
1814 Fire destroyed the upper level of the guildhall. Upper storey rebuilt in Regency style and extended by 2 bays to the N, with the clock tower and cupola replaced.
REED Kent: Diocese of Canterbury 2.539--71
