Described variously as “Rogue” or “Punchy” Scottish Baronial, this building is certainly distinctive. It was completed in 1879 according to designs by the Falkirk architect Alexander Black. The oriel bay resting on a squat flowering column looks like a pulpit – just right for the Provost of Falkirk. Perhaps the ironwork crown on the truncated pyramid roof is also symbolic. That this was the administrative building for the burgh of Falkirk is shown by the large coat-of-arms set high in the gable. A description of Falkirk published in 1879 aptly stated that “pains have been taken to produce a bold and effective exterior without any lavish expenditure.” The total cost was a little over £3,000.

As well as housing the Town Clerk’s office it contained the Fiscal’s office, the Collector’s rooms, the court room, witnesses’ room, committee room and council chamber. On the upper floor was a flat for the caretaker. Today the building is home to the Registrar, where births, marriages and deaths are recorded. The parts open to the public are the main hall and marriage rooms.

Open courtesy of the Chief Executive, Falkirk Council.

Wheelchair access to ground floor and lift to first floor. Parking in town centre.

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