The Guildhall’s recently refurbished exterior is a beautiful focal point of  Barnstaple High Street. The layout of the main chamber denotes the Guildhall’s previous use as a courtroom, with a Justices’ bench, a jury gallery, and tiered public seating. What draws the eye most in this room is the collection of oil paintings which cover most of the walls, some of which were painted by the famous painter Thomas Hudson (1701-1772). Portraits include those of William Rock, a Barnstaple benefactor, and John Gay, an 18th-century poet and playwright who was born in the town.