This engraving of Marygate looking towards the Town Hall was published in 1799 but is a view of the building which is still recognisable today. There has been a building on this site for many centuries. However, the original structures were never as elaborate as the one we have today. The present Town Hall, built on the site of the Tollbooth, was constructed in two phases – the Portico, Guildhall and Goal (1750 – 1757) and then the back section containing the anteroom, Council Chamber and Mayor’s Parlour (1759 -1763). Although most of the construction work was completed by 1761, all work was not finished until 1763. Both phases of the work were carried out under the direction of Joseph Dodds, master carpenter and Freeman of the town. He was also the mastermind behind the design of the building.

The Town Hall is an iconic building in Berwick’s history, often mistaken for the town’s church because of its high spire. It is in the centre of the town and has been used for many purposes in the past – Guild meeting place; Gaol; Court House; Entertainment – and still plays an important role today hosting many events and meetings.