On the Strand in London, the Royal Courts of Justice houses the High Court and Court of Appeal of England and Wales. George Edmund Street designed this Victorian Gothic Revival building, completed in 1882. Pause outside to study its carved stonework, pointed arches, windows and spires, or check whether guided tours are available to see more of the interior. Court access can be affected by legal proceedings, so plan around the building’s working role as well as its architecture.
A Gothic Revival courthouse on the Strand
The Royal Courts of Justice stands on the Strand in London. Designed by George Edmund Street, the building was completed in 1882 and is home to the High Court and Court of Appeal of England and Wales.
Its Victorian Gothic Revival design gives the courthouse a cathedral-like profile. Pointed arches and spires draw the eye upward, while carved stonework and detailed windows reward a closer look. From the street, the scale and ornament make the building easy to distinguish from its surroundings.
What to look for outside
Take time to follow the façade from its arches to the upper towers and spires. The carved details and window tracery are among the most noticeable features, and the building’s broad frontage gives you several angles to observe. The steps provide a place to pause and watch people entering and leaving the courts.
The courthouse remains a working legal building, so the experience is shaped by its daily use. If you want to go inside, check online for guided tour availability first. Access to court areas can be limited while legal proceedings are taking place.
Visiting the interior
Some visitors enter to see the halls and courtrooms, but access depends on what is happening in the building. Guided tours are one way to look for an opportunity to see more of the interior. Photography inside is restricted, so be prepared to leave your camera unused in those areas.
The building’s public function is part of the visit: it is a place where legal work continues, not solely an architectural attraction. Follow any instructions given on site and allow court activity to take priority.
Perguntas frequentes
Where are the Royal Courts of Justice?
They are on the Strand in London, at WC2A 2LL.
Can you go inside the Royal Courts of Justice?
Interior access can be limited by ongoing legal proceedings. Check online for guided tour availability before your visit.
Can you take photographs inside?
Photography inside is restricted.
What is the Royal Courts of Justice?
It is the London courthouse housing the High Court and Court of Appeal of England and Wales. The Victorian Gothic Revival building was designed by George Edmund Street and completed in 1882.
