National Justice Museum
Explore centuries of law and order in Nottingham's historic Shire Hall and Gaol, with captivating live performances and interactive exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better immersion
National Justice Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better immersion
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of law and order in Nottingham's historic Shire Hall and Gaol, with captivating live performances and interactive exhibits.
"An incredible museum, well worth the entrance fee, offering so much to learn and presented so well."
🎯 Catch the Live Shows!
Don't miss the Georgian trial and hanging reenactments; they're the highlight!
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
You'll need plenty of time to explore all five floors and enjoy the performances.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Georgian Trial Reenactment
Courtroom
Witness history unfold as actors perform a lively Georgian trial, often involving audience participation. Informative and entertaining!
The 'Hanging' Performance
Gallows
Experience a dramatic reenactment of a historical hanging, offering a stark look at past punishments. Hauntingly effective.
Interactive Crime Gallery
Crime Gallery
Engage with exhibits on crime and punishment, including a virtual autopsy. A morbidly fascinating look at justice.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Live Performances
Allow Ample Time for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Live Shows!
Don't miss the Georgian trial and hanging reenactments; they're the highlight!
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
You'll need plenty of time to explore all five floors and enjoy the performances.
🎟️ Joint Ticket with Caves
Consider a joint ticket for the National Justice Museum and City of Caves for a full day of history.
👻 Spooky Halloween Tours
Check for special Victorian Condemned tours in October/November for a frightfully fun experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Live Shows!
Don't miss the Georgian trial and hanging reenactments; they're the highlight!
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
You'll need plenty of time to explore all five floors and enjoy the performances.
🎟️ Joint Ticket with Caves
Consider a joint ticket for the National Justice Museum and City of Caves for a full day of history.
👻 Spooky Halloween Tours
Check for special Victorian Condemned tours in October/November for a frightfully fun experience.
🧠 Try the Safe Challenge
Test your skills with the museum's safe-cracking challenge – if you can manage it!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are highly impressed by the National Justice Museum, praising its informative exhibits and the exceptional live performances that bring history to life. The interactive elements and the actors' dedication are frequently highlighted as major strengths, making it a well-worthwhile visit for its educational and entertaining value.
"So impressed by this museum. Full of information and exhibits some of them interactive .But the highlight was the live performances of a Georgian trial in which members of the public took part and the "hanging" performance. Both were entertaining and informative. Could have stayed for hours. Highly recommend"
janice brown
"Very interesting, loved the people acting out scenes and hangings, interesting stories and a well laid out and facinating display. There are lots of interactive displays and fun things to do. Go on spoil yourself, have some fun, you deserve it!!!"
Sir Werner
"What an incredible museum and well worth the entrance fee. The history of the museum, along with details of the former inmates, was so interesting. There is just so much to learn about, and presented so well. I've visited so many old goals over the years, but this museum offers far more and definitely worth visiting."
Alice Goss
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Justice Museum is centrally located in Nottingham's Lace Market. It's easily accessible by public transport, with Nottingham train station a short walk away. Several bus routes also stop nearby. Parking is available in nearby city center car parks.
Yes, the National Justice Museum is located right next to the City of Caves. Many visitors opt for a joint ticket to experience both historical attractions on the same day.
The closest train station is Nottingham Station, which is about a 15-minute walk. Numerous bus routes serve the city center, with stops within easy walking distance of the museum.
While there isn't dedicated parking at the museum itself, there are several public car parks within a short walking distance in the city center. Consider Lace Market car park or St James's car park.
Absolutely! The National Justice Museum is in the heart of Nottingham's city center, making it very walkable from most hotels and attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are considered very reasonable for the experience offered. Check the official website for current admission fees, but expect good value for money.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially if you want to guarantee a spot for specific live performances or during peak times.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the museum's official website before your visit. They are typically open daily, but specific times may differ.
The museum often offers concessions for students, seniors, and families. Look out for potential joint ticket deals with other local attractions like the City of Caves.
Refund policies can vary. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions when booking your tickets or contact the museum directly for specific queries regarding cancellations or rescheduling.
🎫 ⚖️ Onsite Experience
Explore five floors of history, including old courtrooms and cells. Don't miss the live performances of Georgian trials and hangings, interactive exhibits like the virtual autopsy, and the chance to try cracking a safe.
Yes, the live performances, particularly the Georgian trial and hanging reenactments, are consistently praised for being entertaining, informative, and bringing history to life.
Yes, the museum offers interactive elements and engaging performances that can be fascinating for older children. However, some themes might be intense for very young children.
Most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours at the museum to fully experience the exhibits and catch the live performances.
The museum is housed in a historic building, which may present some accessibility challenges. It's recommended to contact the museum directly to inquire about specific accessibility features and any limitations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafe where you can grab a refreshment or a light bite. It's a convenient spot for a brief stop during your visit.
Generally, it's best to consume your own food and drinks in designated areas or outside the museum. The on-site cafe offers options for purchase.
The museum is located in Nottingham's city center, which offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and pubs catering to various tastes and budgets. You'll find plenty of choices just a short walk away.
The cafe typically offers a selection of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, cakes, and snacks. It's a good place for a quick refuel.
While specific options may vary, most museum cafes offer a range of choices. It's advisable to check with the cafe staff upon arrival regarding any dietary needs or preferences.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits. Always check for signage or ask staff if unsure.
While not explicitly stated, it's common practice in museums to avoid flash photography in areas with sensitive artifacts or displays. Be mindful of other visitors and any posted restrictions.
The historic courtrooms, the cells, and the exterior of the Shire Hall offer great photographic opportunities. The actors in costume also make for interesting shots. +1
Short videos for personal social media are usually fine, but commercial filming or extensive video production may require prior permission. Check the museum's policy or contact them directly.
The atmospheric courtrooms, the imposing architecture, and the costumed interpreters provide many visually interesting opportunities for social media content. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some themes might be intense, the museum generally presents them in an age-appropriate manner. The reenactments of trials can be particularly exciting for kids, offering a glimpse into historical court proceedings. Consider visiting during less busy periods to allow children more space to explore and interact. The joint ticket with the City of Caves also provides an extended adventure for a family day out.
👻 Ghost Hunters & Paranormal Enthusiasts
While the museum's primary focus is historical, the inherent nature of its past lends itself to ghost stories and spooky tales. Special Halloween tours, like the Victorian Condemned tour, are specifically designed to lean into this aspect, offering a frightfully fun experience. Even outside of these events, the atmospheric courtrooms and cells can evoke a sense of unease and intrigue for paranormal enthusiasts.
🏛️ History Buffs & Dark Tourists
The museum's embrace of dark tourism themes, exploring the grimmer aspects of justice, is particularly appealing to this audience. From tales of riots and executions to the daily lives of prisoners, the narratives are rich and thought-provoking. The opportunity to explore the former gaol and courtrooms adds a layer of authenticity that is hard to find elsewhere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Justice in Nottingham
Through its extensive collections and immersive exhibits, the museum delves into significant historical events and figures. From the stories of ordinary inmates to notorious criminals, the narratives presented are both compelling and educational. The interactive elements, such as the virtual autopsy and the safe-cracking challenge, further engage visitors, making the learning process dynamic and memorable. The museum's commitment to historical accuracy ensures that visitors receive an authentic glimpse into the penal system's past.
Beyond the factual displays, the museum excels at bringing history to life through its dedicated team of actors. These interpreters, often portraying historical figures like gaolers or prisoners, provide living history experiences that are central to the museum's appeal. Their performances in courtrooms and at the gallows are particularly impactful, offering a visceral connection to the past that resonates long after the visit.
Experiencing Living History
The most popular living history elements are the reenactments of Georgian trials and hangings. These performances are not merely dramatic displays but are designed to be educational, offering insights into the legal processes and social attitudes of the time. Visitors often find themselves drawn into the proceedings, sometimes even taking on roles themselves, which creates a truly memorable and interactive experience. The actors' dedication and skill are frequently highlighted in reviews, underscoring their importance to the museum's success.
Beyond these major performances, interpreters are often found throughout the museum, sharing anecdotes, answering questions, and offering glimpses into the daily lives of those who worked and were imprisoned there. This constant presence of historical characters ensures that every visit feels unique and personal. It’s this blend of historical accuracy and engaging performance that makes the National Justice Museum a standout destination for those interested in history and unique cultural experiences.
The Darker Side of Justice
One of the most striking elements is the exploration of capital punishment. The 'hanging' reenactments are particularly impactful, offering a visceral understanding of the finality and public nature of executions in past eras. These performances, alongside exhibits detailing the crimes that led to such sentences, create a powerful and often sobering experience. The museum aims to educate visitors about the evolution of justice, including how societal views on punishment have changed over time.
Even seemingly lighter elements, like the virtual autopsy in the Crime Gallery, contribute to this theme by delving into the forensic aspects of crime investigation. The museum's ability to present these challenging topics in an engaging and informative manner is a testament to its curatorial approach. It ensures that visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the complexities of justice and its historical impact.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit