National Justice Museum
Explore five centuries of crime, punishment, and justice in Nottingham's authentic Georgian gaol and Victorian courtroom.
Housed in Nottingham's Grade II* listed Shire Hall, the National Justice Museum explores crime, punishment, and social justice across five atmospheric floors. Visitors encounter costumed historical characters, explore a Georgian gaol with cells dating back centuries, and experience a Victorian courtroom. Daily performances include historical trial re-enactments and public execution dramatizations. Free exhibition spaces showcase modern justice themes. Located in the Lace Market near the train station and tram stop, it offers an immersive journey through England's legal and penal history.
A brief summary to National Justice Museum
- National Justice Museum, High Pavement, Nottingham, NG1 1HN, GB
- +441159520555
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to catch the daily trial re-enactment and execution performances, typically held at midday and mid-afternoon. These live performances are the highlight of most visits and require no additional ticket beyond general admission.
- Book tickets online in advance, especially during school holidays and weekends. Your ticket automatically becomes an Annual Pass, granting unlimited return visits for a full year from purchase date.
- Allow at least 2–3 hours for your visit to explore all five floors, interact with costumed characters, and enjoy the performances. Weekday visits tend to be quieter than weekends if you prefer a more intimate experience.
- Don't miss the free exhibition spaces on modern social justice themes—these require no admission ticket and offer thought-provoking perspectives on how ideas of justice have evolved.
- Engage directly with the costumed interpreters; they are exceptionally knowledgeable and often share fascinating anecdotes and details about daily life in the gaol that bring the exhibits to life.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Tram
Alight at the Lace Market tram stop. From there, it is a two-minute walk down the hill. Take the second left at the corner where you see Nottingham Contemporary, then walk straight up High Pavement. The museum is located on the right-hand side. This is the most direct and accessible approach.
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By Train
Nottingham Train Station is approximately 0.8 miles from the museum, a walk of 10–15 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the station if you prefer not to walk. Follow signs toward the city centre and the Lace Market area, or ask station staff for directions to High Pavement.
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By Car
From the M1 northbound, leave at Junction 26 and follow the A610 into the city centre. From the M1 southbound, leave at Junction 24 and follow the A453. Follow tourist signs for the museum once in the city centre. The museum is located on High Pavement, a one-way street with drop-off and pick-up points but no parking 8 am–8 pm, seven days a week. Use nearby multi-storey car parks on Stoney Street, approximately 2–3 minutes' walk away.
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On Foot from City Centre
The museum is centrally located in the Lace Market, approximately 5–10 minutes' walk from Nottingham city centre. From the Market Square, head toward the Lace Market area and follow signs to High Pavement. The route is relatively flat and well-signposted.
National Justice Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about National Justice Museum
A Building Steeped in Centuries of Justice
The National Justice Museum occupies the Grade II* listed Shire Hall on High Pavement in Nottingham's historic Lace Market. This remarkable building has served as the seat of justice for centuries, with courtrooms dating to the 14th century and the gaol established by at least 1449. Walking through its five floors, you encounter authentic spaces where real trials occurred, real prisoners were held, and real judgments were handed down. The Georgian gaol retains its original character, while cells scattered throughout the building offer tangible connections to those who were confined within these walls—from common criminals to those awaiting execution.Meeting History Through Living Performance
What distinguishes this museum from traditional exhibits is its commitment to bringing history alive through costumed interpreters and actors. As you explore, you'll encounter characters such as gaolers, matrons, judges, and prisoners, each ready to share authentic stories from Nottingham County Gaol's past. These performers are not merely decorative; they are knowledgeable historians who engage visitors in dialogue, answer questions, and provide context for the spaces around you. The museum stages daily historical trial re-enactments linked to current exhibitions, allowing visitors to witness how justice was administered in Georgian England. The most dramatic offering is the daily public execution performance in the exercise yard—a theatrical recreation of one of Georgian England's most popular public entertainments, presented with historical accuracy and theatrical flair.Interactive Exploration and Hands-On Learning
Beyond passive observation, the museum encourages active participation. Interactive displays throughout the five floors invite visitors to engage with the material—from virtual autopsy experiences in the Crime Gallery to safe-cracking challenges that test problem-solving skills. These elements transform the museum from a repository of artifacts into an experiential learning environment. The Victorian courtroom remains fully functional for demonstrations, allowing visitors to understand the judicial process firsthand. Children and adults alike find themselves absorbed in activities that make the history of crime and punishment both accessible and memorable.Modern Justice in Conversation with the Past
The museum extends beyond historical narrative to address contemporary themes. Free exhibition spaces explore modern social justice issues, drawing inspiration from the museum's extensive collection. The "30 Objects Representing Justice" exhibition showcases artifacts—some never previously displayed—to examine how concepts of law, power, and humanity have evolved over time. This curatorial approach acknowledges that justice is not a static historical topic but an ongoing conversation about rights, fairness, and human dignity. Visitors can access these free spaces without purchasing general admission, making the museum's contemporary perspective available to all.Atmosphere and Setting
The building itself creates an atmosphere of historical authenticity. Original stone walls, period furnishings, and the architectural integrity of the Shire Hall transport visitors into the past. Yet the museum avoids being oppressive or morbid; instead, it presents history with respect and nuance. The presence of knowledgeable staff and engaging performers ensures that even potentially dark subject matter—punishment, execution, imprisonment—is handled with educational purpose and human sensitivity. Visitors frequently note that the experience stays with them long after departure, prompting reflection on justice, mercy, and the evolution of legal systems.Accessibility and Practical Considerations
Located in the Lace Market, the museum benefits from excellent transport connections. The Lace Market tram stop is a two-minute walk away, Nottingham Train Station lies approximately 10–15 minutes on foot, and multiple car parks serve the city centre. The museum occupies a historic building with five floors, which may present challenges for those with mobility limitations, though staff can provide guidance on accessible routes. The experience typically requires 2–3 hours to fully appreciate the exhibitions and performances, though visitors can spend considerably longer if they wish to attend multiple daily performances or engage deeply with interactive elements.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Weekday Cross Monument
0.1 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
Citylife UK
0.2 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
16 Stoney Street
0.2 km
Discover 16 Stoney Street, a preserved Victorian lace warehouse in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market, echoing the city’s rich industrial heritage.
The Tokenhouse
0.3 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
The Hockley Arts Club
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
0.3 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
Watson Fothergill's Office
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant Gothic Revival office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic Victorian architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic homage.
Bunkers Hill
0.4 km
Discover Bunkers Hill, Nottingham's lively pub and restaurant, offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Right Lion
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
St Nic's Church
0.4 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
The Left Lion
0.5 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Speakers' Corner
0.5 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
King's Walk sign
0.6 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
0.6 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
Victoria Station Clock Tower
0.8 km
A towering 100-foot clock tower preserving the grandeur and history of Nottingham's lost Victoria railway station.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Mary’s Church Nottingham
0.1 km
Explore Nottingham’s grand medieval parish church, rich in Gothic architecture, historic tombs, and stained glass celebrating centuries of faith and community.
Nottingham Contemporary
0.1 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in Nottingham’s iconic sandstone gallery with free exhibitions, lively events, and a vibrant café.
City of Caves
0.1 km
Explore Nottingham’s hidden underground world: medieval tanneries, wartime shelters and centuries of history carved into sandstone beneath the city streets.
Lace Market
0.1 km
Explore Nottingham’s oldest district, the Lace Market, where industrial heritage meets vibrant creativity in a historic lace-making hub.
The Lacehouse
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Nottingham at The Lacehouse, where cocktails, brunch, and live music come together in a unique setting.
Lace Market Square
0.2 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s lace industry, blending Victorian charm with vibrant cultural life and creative energy.
Nottingham City Council
0.3 km
Central Nottingham’s modern civic heart, housing the City Council and vital public services in a contemporary landmark opposite the railway station.
Flying Horse Walk
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s elegant boutique arcade blending historic charm with artisanal shops and cozy cafes in a tranquil city-centre setting.
Inspired
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic boutique arcade blending timeless charm, independent shops, and elegant Georgian architecture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Hopkinson
0.4 km
A quirky blend of antiques, vintage treasures, and artisan café culture near Nottingham train station.
The Exchange (Exchange Arcade)
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s oldest shopping arcade with exclusive boutiques beneath a stunning 200ft glass dome in the city centre.
Nottingham Council House
0.4 km
Historic Edwardian elegance in Nottingham's heart—where nine versatile rooms create unforgettable celebrations.
Nottingham Tourism Centre
0.4 km
Your welcoming gateway to Nottingham’s attractions, events, and local insights in the heart of the city.
Place
0.5 km
Empowering Nottingham communities through education, wellbeing, and creative engagement at the heart of Sneinton Market.
Old Market Square
0.5 km
Discover the bustling heart of Nottingham at Old Market Square, a historical landmark rich in culture, events, and captivating architecture.
Essential places to dine
Iberico World Tapas
0.0 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in Nottingham’s historic Shire Hall with refined flavors and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Pizzamisú
0.1 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and Italian charm in Nottingham’s historic High Pavement at Pizzamisú.
Piccolino Nottingham
0.1 km
Elegant Italian dining with classic flavors, a vibrant cocktail bar, and alfresco terrace in Nottingham’s city centre.
Annie's Burger Shack
0.2 km
Vibrant American diner in Nottingham’s Lace Market, serving over 30 creative burgers with vegan options and craft beers in a lively, casual setting.
ViDa by Lorentes
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in a cozy Lace Market basement with creative dishes, warm hospitality, and a rustic atmosphere.
Everyday People
0.2 km
MasterChef-inspired ramen with rich broths and creative fusion dishes in Nottingham’s stylish Byard Lane eatery.
The Pelican Club
0.2 km
Experience authentic Umbrian Italian cuisine, live jazz, and crafted cocktails in Nottingham’s elegant and intimate Pelican Club.
Bistro Live Nottingham
0.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife, delicious dining, and unforgettable celebrations all under one roof at Bistro Live Nottingham.
baresca
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in Nottingham’s lively Baresca, where Catalan flavours meet rustic charm.
Anoki Restaurant Nottingham
0.2 km
Experience refined Indian cuisine in Nottingham’s Gothic House, where tradition meets elegance in every flavorful dish.
Dino
0.3 km
Modern dining and lively bar in Nottingham city centre, known for juicy burgers, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Cosy Club
0.3 km
Historic charm meets eclectic British dining and vibrant bar culture in the heart of Nottingham city centre.
Paste Contemporary Thai Cuisine
0.3 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors with a contemporary twist in the heart of Nottingham’s vibrant Lace Market.
Mowgli Street Food Nottingham
0.3 km
Authentic Indian street food in a vibrant, eclectic setting with fresh flavors and a cozy atmosphere in Nottingham city centre.
Spice Cay Restaurant & Bar
0.3 km
Discover bold Caribbean flavors and vibrant vibes at Spice Cay, Nottingham’s premier tapas-style restaurant and bar on Pelham Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Debbie Bryan | Nottingham Lace Market
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s heritage through artisan crafts, exquisite lace, and delightful tearoom treats in the heart of the Lace Market.
Stick & Ribbon
0.2 km
Discover curated women’s fashion with a personal, sustainable touch in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate.
Mood Outfitters
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham's boldest independent fashion at Mood Outfitters, where local designers craft unique, wearable art in the heart of Hockley's creative scene.
Garms Nottingham
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage streetwear and stylish outerwear at Garms Nottingham, a vibrant boutique nestled in the historic heart of Bridlesmith Gate.
MAISON GB
0.3 km
Discover stylish clothing in Nottingham's Gothic House, a Victorian warehouse on historic Barker Gate amid Lace Market's tanneries, graveyards, and mail coach legacy.
White Stuff Nottingham
0.3 km
A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
0.3 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
0.3 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
Void Clothing
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s premier alternative fashion destination blending music culture, unique styles, and local creativity on Carlton Street.
Your Unique Day
0.3 km
Letterbox magic on Goose Gate: bespoke cakes that deliver joy through your mailbox in Nottingham's creative heart.
Cow
0.3 km
Discover timeless threads in Nottingham's coolest vintage haven—Cow curates retro gems with style and soul on Carlton Street.
White Rose Hockley WR2
0.3 km
Discover handpicked vintage treasures and sustainable style at this Hockley charity shop, where retro fashion supports noble causes in Nottingham's creative heart.
White Rose Hockley WR4
0.3 km
A hands‑on vintage shop in Nottingham’s Hockley where curated pre‑loved fashion and everyday treasures wait to be discovered.
Vivienne Westwood
0.3 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
Wild Clothing
0.4 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures at Wild Clothing, Nottingham’s iconic destination for unique, sustainable style since 1983.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pitcher & Piano Nottingham
0.0 km
Historic church turned buzzing bar: stained-glass cocktails, pub feasts, and electric nights in Nottingham's Lace Market heart.
Cock & Hoop
0.0 km
Cozy Lace Market pub pouring local ales and pub favorites in a historic nook, perfect for relaxed escapes amid Nottingham's creative buzz.
Brass Monkey
0.1 km
Late‑night Lace Market cocktail bar with a big rum selection, polished service and warm, low‑lit interiors — ideal for cocktails into the small hours.
Billy Bootleggers Nottingham (formerly Percy Picklebackers)
0.1 km
Dive into Nottingham's live music heartbeat at Billy Bootleggers, where nightly gigs, moonshine cocktails, and Lace Market history fuel epic nights until 3am.
The Blind Rabbit
0.1 km
New York-inspired Nottingham bar blending juicy burgers, wild cocktails, live sports on mega screens, arcade games, and casual vibes in a historic Lace Market gem.
All Bar One Nottingham
0.2 km
Sophisticated wine bar in Nottingham's Weekday Cross, perfect for after-work unwinds, bottomless brunches, and vibrant evenings with global wines and sharing plates.
Coco Tang -Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
Daytime Asian café and a theatrical underground cocktail bar — two distinct moods under one roof in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
Penny Lane
0.2 km
Step into Nottingham’s Penny Lane for nostalgic arcade fun, creative cocktails, and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of the Lace Market.
Bunk
0.3 km
Crispy wings, killer cocktails, and Lace Market vibes—Bunk delivers Nottingham's boldest bite in a historic street setting.
Pepper Rocks
0.3 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar blending quirky charm, great value drinks, and a vibrant two-floor atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Be At One - Nottingham
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant cocktail scene with over 100 expertly crafted drinks and a lively late-night atmosphere at Be At One.
Six Barrel Drafthouse
0.3 km
Hockley’s friendly craft-beer pub — six rotating taps, large bottle fridge and a relaxed, dog-welcoming atmosphere.
Pit & Pendulum
0.3 km
Descend into Poe-inspired gothic splendor at Nottingham's most haunting pub, where shadowy decor, themed cocktails, and rock anthems craft unforgettable nights.
The Curious Tavern
0.3 km
Discover shadowy nooks, bold ales, inventive cocktails, and live tunes in Nottingham's quirkiest Hockley bar—where curiosity meets comfort late into the night.
Lost Property
0.3 km
A secretive cocktail bar in the sandstone caves beneath Carlton Street — intimate, theatrical drinks in a subterranean setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Cell
0.2 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsing heart at The Cell, where affordable drinks, diverse beats, and Hockley's electric vibe fuel unforgettable nights of dance and discovery.
Tantra Night Clubs
0.3 km
Dive into Nottingham's electric nightlife at Tantra Night Clubs, where pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and stylish vibes create unforgettable nights of dance and discovery in the city center.
The Bodega Nottingham
0.3 km
Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.
Eleven
0.3 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
Popworld - Nottingham
0.4 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
Ocean Nightclub
0.4 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
NG-One
0.5 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
ICON
0.6 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Tunnel Club
0.6 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
The Brickworks
0.6 km
Nottingham's raw warehouse heartbeat: intimate DJ nights, killer cocktails, and pure underground energy in a brick-clad haven.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
0.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Unit 13
0.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
0.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's electrifying beats at Love Zoo, where house rhythms, dazzling lights, and cocktail-fueled nights create pure nightlife magic on Weekday Cross.
Stealth
0.8 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Rescue Rooms
0.9 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Lively
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
