Looking for something unusual to do in London? Visitors are welcome to watch a criminal trial at the historic Old Bailey for free! It’s definitely not the typical tourist experience, and it offers a fascinating peek at the distinctive English legal system. I chose to watch a murder trial, but if that’s too macabre for your taste, choose any criminal matter currently before the court.
Daily Schedule at the Old Bailey
Old Bailey is the nickname for the Central Criminal Court of England and Wales. Visitors are welcome to watch the proceedings from public galleries overlooking the courtrooms. Courts are in session weekdays, excluding holidays, from 10:00 – 16:30 with a break from 13:00-14:00. Each day at 10:00 a schedule of the day’s activities is posted here.
English Legal Customs
I went for the high drama and chose a murder trial. To my surprise, the barristers really do wear the wigs and robes we’ve all seen on TV. I guess I didn’t trust Hollywood to give us an accurate depiction.
To an outsider, the traditional attire seemed a bit out of place for such serious proceedings. Still, the wigs and robes are authentically English, and when in Rome…
The two defendants on trial during my visit were in a glass enclosure called the dock. I assumed they were violent— it was a murder case, after all. But apparently all defendants sit in the dock. (Maybe it’s wise not to take chances.)
Having been a juror— and later a witness— at criminal trials in the States, it was interesting to compare courtroom procedures.
Strict Rules for the Gallery
The Old Bailey witnessed many high profile cases over the centuries and appeals to jurists and historians alike. Just keep your opinions to yourself. The defendants’ and victims’ friends and relatives are in the relatively small balcony with you!
It’s free to enter the galleries, but the rules are strictly enforced. “Smart casual dress” is required. No food or drink of any kind is permitted, and all electronic devices are banned. Bags, too, are off limits. Since there are no storage facilities onsite, you’ll need to make independent arrangements for your belongings. Once inside the gallery, strict silence is required.
Watching a Criminal Trial
The court sits at the corner of Newgate Street and Old Bailey, relatively near St. Paul’s Cathedral. The visitor entrance to the galleries is at Warwick Passage. Arrive early if you have your heart set on a high-profile case. Once you pass through security, you’ll be directed upstairs where staff will guide you to an available seat in one of the galleries. Be prepared to wait if you’re picky about which courtroom you want.
If watching murder trials doesn’t do much for you, I have another under-the-radar experience in London to share with you in a future post. Stay tuned!
In the meantime, learn how the Kemet Klub of Bristol, England, can help you visit the ancient sites of Egypt— virtually or in person! Already in the UK? Discover the single most important thing to do in Northern Ireland.
Heads up! Starting in 2024, there are new entry requirements for most visitors to the UK— learn about them here.
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