Todmorden Town Hall

About

Todmorden Town Hall straddles the Walsden Water and was situated in both Lancashire and Yorkshire until the county boundary was moved on January 1st 1888. Designed by John Gibson of Westminster, this Grade 1 listed building holds a strong place in the hearts of local people. Most iconic, from the outside, is the pediment. The carved stonework has two central female figures on a pedestal. The one on the left represents Lancashire (cotton spinning industry) and the one on the right Yorkshire (engineering and agriculture). Below the two figures are different friezes of the industries coming together to prosper on the border. Inside the building there is an old Magistrate’s Court which now serves as the Todmorden Town Council Chamber. The ballroom upstairs spans the length of the building and holds many memories for those who have attended the variety of events held in the Town Hall for over 140 years. The building has many stories to tell and is home to a HLF funded Heritage Centre. Guided ‘Teas and Tours’ are available for groups with fully trained volunteer tour guides. Tours cost £4.50 per person, with a minimum group charge of £45.00. All tours include tea, coffee and biscuits. Free ‘Taster Tours’ are available for individuals and couples on the first Sunday of the month (except January) and start at 2pm opposite the iconic pediment. There is no need to book a tour: you can just turn up on the day. For individuals and couples who would like to enjoy a more thorough tour there are also ‘Total Tours of Todmorden Town Hall’ available. These include access to the secret spaces of Todmorden Town Hall, including the former Caretaker’s Flat, bathroom in the attic and cellar. Total Tours of Todmorden Town Hall are charged at £6.50 per person and include tea, coffee and biscuits.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes