The Old Drill Hall – Philip Dix House
A former Territorial Army headquarters on Corporation Street, with more than a century of history.
A Little History of the Old Drill Hall
The old Drill Hall on Corporation Street dates from 1911, when it was built for the Staffordshire Territorial Force. Designed by architect G. C. Cowlishaw, it officially opened on 20 December that year and became the headquarters of ‘C’ Company, 6th Battalion, North Staffordshire Regiment. Inside were rooms for officers, a billiards room, a canteen and even a miniature rifle range. The building was renovated for public use in 1994 and renamed after Philip Dix, a former Mayor of Tamworth. After serving as a tourist information centre and Citizens Advice offices, it became the Tamworth Enterprise Centre in 2017.
I love how much of the original Edwardian frontage has survived, with its red brickwork, yellow brick detailing and grand central gable. The Drill Hall is recognised on Tamworth’s local heritage list, and its military past is an important part of the town’s story. It’s another historic building that could easily be missed while walking between the pubs.
Old Drill Hall Photo Gallery
Four photographs from my visit, showing the historic building and its architectural details.
