National Justice Museum, Nottingham
Step into Nottingham’s historic Shire Hall to explore crime, punishment, and social justice through immersive exhibits and live reenactments.
Located in Nottingham’s historic Grade II* listed Shire Hall, the National Justice Museum offers a compelling journey through crime, punishment, and social justice across five floors. Visitors explore a Victorian courtroom, Georgian gaol, and ancient prison cells, brought to life by costumed actors and immersive reenactments of historical trials and executions. The museum also features free exhibitions on modern social justice themes, making it a rich cultural and educational experience.
A brief summary to National Justice Museum
- National Justice Museum, High Pavement, Nottingham, NG1 1HN, GB
- +441159520555
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 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
- Book tickets online in advance to secure entry and benefit from an annual pass allowing unlimited visits for a year.
- Plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours to fully experience the five floors, live performances, and interactive exhibits.
- Visit during weekdays if you prefer a quieter experience, as weekends and school holidays can be busier.
- Don’t miss the daily reenactments of Georgian trials and public executions, which are highlights of the museum.
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
Take the Nottingham tram to the Lace Market stop; from there, it is a 2-minute downhill walk to the museum. Trams run frequently, and the short walk is on paved streets suitable for most visitors.
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By Train
Nottingham Train Station is approximately 0.8 miles away, about a 10-15 minute walk. Taxis are readily available at the station for a quick 5-minute ride to the museum.
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By Car
Access the museum from the M1 motorway via junction 24 or 26, following city centre signs. Nearby multi-storey car parks on Stoney Street provide parking options. Note that High Pavement is a one-way street with no parking allowed from 8am to 8pm daily.
National Justice Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Justice Museum
A Living History of Justice in Nottingham
The National Justice Museum is housed in the iconic Shire Hall, a Grade II* listed building steeped in history. This remarkable structure encompasses five floors, including a Victorian courtroom and a Georgian gaol with prison cells dating back hundreds of years. Visitors walk through spaces where real trials were held and where prisoners were once confined, offering a tangible connection to England’s legal past. The building itself, perched on a rocky outcrop, adds dramatic atmosphere to the experience.Immersive Performances and Interactive Exhibits
The museum’s hallmark is its live performances and costumed characters who bring history vividly to life. Actors portray judges, gaolers, prisoners, and reformers such as Elizabeth Fry, sharing authentic stories from the gaol’s past. Visitors can participate in historical trial reenactments and witness Georgian-era public executions staged in the exercise yard. Interactive exhibits, including a virtual autopsy and safe-cracking challenges, engage visitors of all ages and deepen understanding of forensic and criminal justice themes.Exploring Crime, Punishment, and Social Justice
Beyond historical displays, the museum explores contemporary social justice issues in its free exhibition spaces. These areas feature artefacts and thought-provoking installations that do not require museum admission, inviting reflection on justice’s evolving role in society. The museum’s collection spans centuries, highlighting the human stories behind crime and punishment, from notorious criminals to reformers and everyday people affected by the justice system.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The Shire Hall’s architecture is a significant part of the museum’s appeal. The preserved courtrooms and underground cells provide an authentic setting rarely found in museums. The site’s history as an active courthouse until recent decades adds to its cultural importance. Visitors experience the weight of history in rooms where legal decisions shaped lives, and in the gaol’s austere cells and execution yard.A Welcoming and Educational Destination
The National Justice Museum is designed to be accessible and engaging for a wide audience. Its interactive approach and knowledgeable staff create an educational environment that is both informative and entertaining. The museum is suitable for families, history enthusiasts, and those interested in law and social justice. Tickets include unlimited entry for a year, encouraging repeat visits to explore changing exhibitions and performances.Location and Visitor Experience
Situated in Nottingham’s Lace Market area, the museum is close to the city center, tram stops, and car parks. Visitors can easily combine a visit with exploring Nottingham’s rich heritage. The museum’s atmosphere is enhanced by its historic surroundings and the dynamic presence of actors, making each visit unique and memorable.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
- Scenic
- Educational
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
