Published Friday, 24th August 2018

Visitors will get the chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at Reigate Town Hall on Saturday 15 September as it opens its doors for this year’s Heritage Open Days.

Old Council Chamber, Reigate Town HallThe Grade II Listed building, completed in 1901, is a stunning example of Arts & Crafts architecture that originally housed the Town Hall, Law Courts, Police and Fires stations. 

The building boasts ornate Art Nouveau features, beautiful stained glass windows, a collection of paintings by William Tatton Winter and many historic photographs.

Meet the Mayor

You’ll be able to meet the Mayor and see her Mayoral robes, mace and other historic regalia; learn more about local democracy from your local Councillors and Youth Council and find out about our “Be a councillor” campaign.  

A talk about Lady Henry Somerset, philanthropist, temperance leader, campaigner for women’s rights and a former resident of Reigate Priory, will be given by author Ros Black at 12 noon. 

If you get peckish on your visit, you can enjoy a delicious selection of homemade cakes and savouries in the beautiful surroundings of the Old Council Chamber. Proceeds will go to the Mayor’s charities, George and the Giant Pledge and Born Free.  

Outside in the Town Hall car park, George and the Giant Pledge is putting on a display of classic and modern cars, including a Maserati and a Ghost Busters School Bus.

Worth a visit

“I’m really looking forward to welcoming visitors to our beautiful Town Hall building”, says Cllr Dorothy Ross-Tomlin, Mayor of Reigate & Banstead. “Whether you’re fascinated by architecture or local history, want to know more about democracy in our borough or you are just curious to take a look inside your Town Hall, please come along, it’ll be well worth the visit!” 

Located on Castlefield Road, Reigate, RH2 0SH, the Town Hall will be open from 11am to 4pm on 15 September.

War Horse free screening

The Town Hall is just one of many FREE venues, walks and talks across the borough for Heritage Open Days, on 6-9 and 13-16 September 2018. 

A free showing of War Horse the movie is being hosted by the Harlequin Theatre on Sunday 16 September. The film will be preceded by a talk by leading military historian Andy Robertshaw, who was a technical adviser on the production and had a cameo in the film.

Some of the other highlights include: Gatton Park and Barron’s Cave, Reigate; All Saints Church, Banstead; Redhill Centre for Family History and Horley town centre and history walk.

More information

To find out what’s on near you, visit the Heritage Open Days website or pick up a brochure from public buildings and shops in the area.