The Guildhall was built between 1849 – 51 and is the 5th Guildhall that Dartmouth has had. There were plans for a sixth to be built where the existing Old Market is but, this was considered too expensive.

The first, known as ‘Ye Yeldhall’ was located close to St Saviours Church cemetery, and was used between 1370 and 1480. The second was in the merchant John Hawley’s house after ownership was transferred in 1480, this was housed between Lower and Higher Street. When this building was demolished in 1864, a temporary arrangement was set up in the Old Assembly rooms in Duke Street/Mayors Avenue.

Between 1878 and 1902 The Bible Christian Chapel in Victoria Road was used until the current building, previously the Subscription rooms (a co-ed British school with meeting room over), was taken over in 1902, with an extension added in 1907.