The 17th-century Old Amersham centrepiece
Built in 1682, the Market Hall (a Grade II listed building) was gifted by Sir William Drake to the people of Old Amersham to use for meetings (upper floor) and markets (ground floor). Over the years, the building has been used to house the local fire engine (1904), a public water pump and the town lock-up, and is now predominantly used for functions and the weekly Saturday market. The whole building was restored in 1911 by William Wykeham Tyrrwhitt-Drake and bore the family crest on the south wall.
The building comprises an old tiled roof and an octagonal wooden cupola with a clock face, the clock tower was restored in 2021/22. On the east side, mischief-makers (normally drunks) were held overnight in the lock-up, notable for its inscription “Commit No Nuisance” above the door. An ancient water pump dating 1785 can also be found on the east side, gifted by a local benefactor—many houses didn’t have their own wells and water mains did not reach Amersham until 1910.
Photo credits: Mark Roberts
Explore more of Amersham
Old Amersham Memorial Gardens
Old Amersham's award-winning gardens, with historical and environmental interest
Boot&Slipper
Historic pub with a modern dining menu and a family-friendly vibe.
Koyo
A Japanese tapasu bar that serves high-quality, fresh food based on a unique combination of traditional sushi, katsu, teriyaki and slurping noodles.
Jewellery Workshop Amersham
A fabulous range of jewellery and comprehensive repair service.
Sycamore
Independent neighbourhood café serving up great coffee and food.
The Record Shop
A large and diverse collection of vinyl records covering every genre of music.
The Potters Arms
A very aesthetically pleasing pub, whilst still keeping the traditional village pub feel
The Maltings
Explore the hidden history beyond The Grade II listed maltings
Ring’O’Roses
Luxury and hand-made toys in Old Amersham.
