On Parliament Square in Westminster, the UK Supreme Court is open to the public on weekdays. Its home is the former Middlesex Guildhall, a Gothic Revival building with carved stonework, towers and arched windows. Inside, you can see exhibits about the court and the UK legal system, and enter a courtroom when a hearing is in session. Admission is free. The building is also a worthwhile stop for its architecture and its place among Westminster’s major institutions, even if you do not attend a hearing.
The former Middlesex Guildhall
The Supreme Court occupies the former Middlesex Guildhall on Parliament Square. Completed in 1913, the building was designed by architect J.S. Its Gothic Revival exterior has towers, arched windows, elaborate stonework and sculpted details. The scale and decoration give the court a distinct presence among the institutions around the square.
Parliament Square brings together buildings associated with Parliament, government, the monarchy, religion and the judiciary. The Supreme Court’s setting makes it easy to place the judiciary within this wider civic landscape. Even a visit focused on the building itself gives you a chance to examine its architecture and carved details.
Inside the court
The public areas include displays about the Supreme Court’s history and the UK legal system. Exhibits, videos and objects gifted by other countries add detail to the court’s work and its place in the legal system. Visitors can also explore areas of the building across several levels.
Courtrooms may be open to visitors when hearings are taking place. Observing a case gives you a view of lawyers presenting arguments and justices considering them in a formal setting. Check what is accessible on the day, and allow time for security at the entrance. The court is a working institution, so access to hearings and rooms depends on what is taking place.
Facilities and access
A café inside the building serves cakes, sandwiches, coffee and soft drinks, and there is a small shop. Wheelchair access includes accessible entrances, seating and restrooms, with lifts inside. The Supreme Court is at Parliament Square, London SW1P 3BD.
Perguntas frequentes
Is the UK Supreme Court free to visit?
Yes. Admission to the building is free. Allow time for security checks at the entrance.
Can you watch a hearing at the Supreme Court?
Visitors may be able to enter a courtroom when a hearing is in session. Access depends on what is taking place on the day.
Where is the UK Supreme Court?
It is at Parliament Square in London, in the former Middlesex Guildhall.
Is the Supreme Court wheelchair accessible?
The building has wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating and restrooms, as well as lifts inside.
