Royal Courts of Justice, Historic courthouse in City of Westminster, England
The Royal Courts of Justice is a Gothic Revival courthouse in the City of Westminster, marked by grey stone facades, pointed arches, and several towers. The complex extends along the Strand and includes a central hall with vaulted ceilings, as well as many courtrooms and side chambers across multiple levels.
Queen Victoria opened this building in 1882 after architect George Edmund Street designed the plans to unite the High Court and the Court of Appeal under one roof. Work began in the early 1870s and continued until the formal dedication nearly a decade later.
These courts carry the name of the Crown and house judges in traditional robes who walk daily through oak-paneled corridors. Visitors can often see lawyers in wigs consulting with clients in side rooms while hearings take place in chambers with high ceilings.
Access is possible on weekdays during morning and afternoon hours, with many hearings open to the public. It is advisable to arrive early as some chambers fill up quickly and entry depends on availability.
The architect died shortly before completion, never seeing his own work finished. His son took over the final months of supervision and ensured the original designs were respected.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
