Taunton Shire Hall

Taunton Shire Hall, located in Taunton, Somerset, is a historic Grade II listed municipal building that serves as a Crown Court. Built in the Gothic style and completed in 1858, it features an asymmetrical facade with turrets and a prominent porch. The hall has a rich history, having replaced the inadequate facilities of Taunton Castle where significant legal proceedings, including the Bloody Assizes, were held. It has also served as the meeting place for Somerset County Council until 1935. Visitors can admire its architectural details and the notable busts of local figures, including Admiral Robert Blake and Colonel John Chard VC, which enhance its cultural significance. Recent refurbishments have preserved its historical integrity while ensuring its continued use in the justice system.