There are now semi-regular weekend tours of the exceptionally famous Old Bailey courthouse in the City of London.
Old Bailey Great Hall (c) ianVisits
In fact, anyone can already go into the Central Criminal Court of England and Wales, which is the official name for the Old Bailey, if they want to watch a court case, as most courtrooms are open to the public. Justice must be seen to be done, so they are public spaces, but you can only go in at the moment to watch a court case, not to wander around for a look.
The tours also take place on a Saturday when the courts are usually closed, so you get to see the building minus the crowds of lawyers and penitents.
Apart from the courtrooms themselves, there are also the magnificent central corridors, which are sumptuously decorated and look not unlike some of the grander rooms in the V&A Museum.
(c) ianVisits
As a courthouse, even one that is unlikely to be sitting on a Saturday, there’s rather more than the usual number of restrictions.
- Everyone has to go through the security check on arrival.
- You will need to bring photo ID with you.
- There is no admission for children aged under 14 and proof of age may be requested by security.
- No large bags or rucksacks are allowed in the building, though handbags are acceptable.
- No photography is allowed in any courtroom or in the cells — but should be allowed in the main corridors, so long as no one else in the photos (in case you photograph a court witness etc).
The tours cost £30.50 per person, take place on Saturdays and can be booked from here.
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