National Justice Museum

Based at Nottingham’s old Shire Hall and County Gaol, where there has been a court on site since at least 1375, the National Justice Museum aims to inspire people of all ages to become active citizens, and to learn about their rights and responsibilities.

What to see

Explore the historic courtroom, where real trials once took place, or delve into the depths of the underground cells, once home to countless prisoners. Discover a wealth of artefacts relating to crime, punishment, and social justice. Hear stories from dressed-for-the-part characters from the country’s judicial history, who roam the museum’s five floors.

Take part in a mock trial

Learn about the different roles in a courtroom in one of the daily mock trials with costumed characters. You can also discover more about the public executions that used to take place in Nottingham in a daily performance that takes place in the Exercise Yard.

Head underground

The museum also looks after its sister venue, the City of Caves, a network of spaces beneath the streets of Nottingham dating back to the dark ages and including an underground tannery, air raid shelter and remnants of Victorian dwellings. Visitors can take a tour of the caves and learn about those who lived and worked there.

What’s nearby?

Looking for more things to see in Nottingham? Why not try Nottingham Castle with views across the city, or see new and innovative artworks at the 2019 Art Fund Museum of the Year finalist, Nottingham Contemporary.