The Central Criminal Court of England and Wales, known the world over as the 'Old Bailey', is opening its doors to the public for out of hours guided tours .
It is the most famous court house in the world but from the 1100s it was a prison, the notorious Newgate, and a place of execution. The last public hanging there was in 1868 and the last one behind its firmly closed doors in 1902.
The iconic ‘Old Bailey’ is packed with secrets, history, famous trials, unexpected artworks and is also a busy, working building.
Please note:
The only way to reach the cells is by stairs. For other levels of the building there is a lift
This is a working court and even though the tours are on a Saturday:
- 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.
- Mobile phones are allowed on the tour but no photography is allowed in any Court rooms, Cells or the Judges Dining Room.
