The Cornhill has been at the centre of the town's life since Saxon times, witnessing markets, public meetings, civic ceremonies and fairs.
The Cornhill has also witnessed some disturbing events. The stocks and pillory stood here, where miscreant townsfolk were publicly humiliated. Nine people were burnt at the stake between 1538 and 1558.
The Cornhill is also the location of two of the most significant buildings in the town.
The Town Hall built in 1868 from yellowish Bath stone, red sandstone from Mansfield and Portland limestone. Figures (all female) that represent Commerce, Justice, Law & Learning are depicted on the Town Hall.
The Post Office, now converted to a bank, also has female figures representing the great Victorian achievements of Industry, Electricity, Steam and Commerce.
Two more female figures presiding over the Cornhill represent Genius and Science either side of the royal arms.
Opposite the Town Hall is an archway which was created in 1931 by cutting though existing buildings to give access to what is now Lloyds Avenue.