Discovering Much Wenlock - Guild Hall

I love sharing with you all the delights and discoveries of Shropshire. I hope that one day should you get the opportunity to visit my home county you will be tempted to explore some of my recommendations. Much Wenlock is a picturesque village, most famous for being home to Dr William Penny Brookes (1809-1895) responsibly for the revival of the Olympic Games.  
Today I spent some time explore the guildhall, it is located in the center of town at the end of the High Street.  Built in 1540 it was the administrative and judicial center for Much Wenlock for four and a half centuries. 

• It had been an active court of law up until 1985.
• In 1468 the town was granted a charter by Edward IV to hold markets.
• 1540 the town became responsible for administrating its own taxation and justice.

There were 4 types of court held in the Guildhall, Bailiff, Leet, Petty and most importantly Quarter Sessions. 

• Two felons were hanged on Wedlock Edge
• You can find the remains of shackles on a post, which was used to deliver the punishment of whipping.
• They even had a mobile stocks, which you can see in the Guildhall. 

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There is much to be seen inside the building, full of artifacts, historical documentation and period furniture. It is only a small building and you may not be in there too long but it makes for a fascinating visit.

Entry is free though I am sure you will want to make a contribution to the donations box. There is a flight of stairs to access the upper part of the building. 

There is a small car park in the center of town, although it is poorly sign posted. 
The tourist information center is opposite the Guild Hall, though it is not open every day. From here you can start the Olympian Trail, a walk around Much Wenlock with special focus on the part it played in launching the modern day Olympics. I have yet to do this, another excuse to visit and visit a tea room. You can find more information on the Much Wenlock Tourism website. For those of you that love knitting or crochet there is a wonderful wool shop on the High Street.

Other Much Wenlock articles you maybe interested inWenlock PrioryTea On the Square - Tea RoomShipton Hall
I am joining in with this weeks Five of Friday, hosted by Love Made My Home with my 5 favorite photos of the Guild Hall at Much Wenlock. See the link in my right hand side bar for the link.

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