The imposing exterior of the Council House is complemented by a sumptuous, sometimes opulent interior. The first impression, as you enter the foyer through the bronze doors sets the tone, with the columns, floor and staircase crafted from the finest Italian marble.

Inlaid in the floor of the entrance hall is a mosaic of the city’s Coat of Arms. The centrepiece, a green ragged cross on a red shield surrounded by three golden cornets, probably dates back to the reign of Richard II; when Parliament decreed that every "Clothing Town" should attach a coat of arms to every piece of cloth produced as a kind of trade mark and guarantee of quality. The motto ‘Vivit Post Funera Virtus’ means ‘Virtue Outlives Death’.

The painting above the grand staircase is a reminder of the commercial history which used to take place in the old Exchange building and shows local trade being conducted on the Council House steps in medieval times. It was painted by Denholm Davies, who also painted the four historic murals which can be seen under the dome, visible by looking upwards in the Exchange Arcade.

The cast bronze statue, which stands in a niche in the wall at the top of the first flight of stairs, is called ‘Lady of Welcome’. It was modelled by Sir William Reid Dick, sculptor of the Roosevelt memorial in Grosvenor Square, London and was a gift from benefactor Sir Julian Cahn. Sadly, Sir Cahn’s wife had died six months before the sculpture was commissioned and so, with the Lord Mayor’s permission, the face has the countenance of Lady Cahn who, in effect, has welcomed visitors to the Council House for over 70 years.