A unique opportunity to visit this iconic building in London.
The Central Criminal Court of England and Wales, known the world over as the 'Old Bailey', is opening its doors to the public for out of hours guided tours.
It is the most famous court house in the world but from the 1100s it was a prison, the notorious Newgate, and a place of execution. The last public hanging there was in 1868 and the last one behind its firmly closed doors in 1902.
The iconic ‘Old Bailey’ is packed with secrets, history, famous trials, unexpected artworks and is also a busy, working building.
What's included
Guided tour of the 'Old Bailey' for 1.5 hours (includes stairs and not suitable for those with limited mobility).
See guidance and restrictions below concerning security check, ID requirements and age limits. All guidance must be followed or access could be denied.
Format of the day
1.45pm - Meet at the Lords Major Entrance on Warwick Square for the Old Bailey Guided Tour. Please do not be late as security measures are required to entry at the allotted tour time.
2.00pm - Guided Tour begins.
3.30pm - Approx. End of tour.
Price
CSSC Member: £10.00
Non-Members: £15.00 + £6 non-member event fee.
Buying a non member ticket?
An event fee is applied to each non-member ticket. Why not make use of the linked membership scheme and earn yourself £10 by joining them up to CSSC, they will save the non-member event fee, and purchase the ticket at the discounted members rate. Invite your non-member guests to join CSSC here.
Please note that non-member event fee is non-refundable
Notes and restrictions
Transportation to London for the tour is not included and cannot be claimed back against CSSC.
The only way to reach the cells is by stairs. For other levels of the building there is a lift.
Everyone has to go through the security check on arrival.
You will need to bring photo ID with you.
There is no admission for children aged under 14 and proof of age may be requested by security.
No large bags or rucksacks are allowed in the building, though handbags are acceptable.
Mobile phones are allowed on the tour but no photography is allowed in any Court rooms, Cells or the Judges Dining Room.
The closing date for applications is Friday, 14th August 2026 or when tickets sell out.