Working Mens Institute

On the north side of the Market Square is the former Working Men’s Institute, the ground floor of which is currently a general store. The Institute was built in 1877 as a reading room for the men of the town, paid for by subscription. It displays some elaborate stonework, a Dutch gable pediment and unusual columns. These start at the first-floor level and have a 16th century appearance. On either side of the window is a gabled dormer. The building proudly proclaims its name and date of construction on a parapet at the head of the columns. On the Dutch gable you will see a crested shield and banner carved in stone. In the ground floor — accessed by a door from the alleyway to the right — was a Brethren Meeting Room.

Behind the Institute, in what is now a car park and social housing, stood Egglers Castle where a merchant traded in eggs.

To the left end of this block you will see The White Swan Hotel.