The Royal Courts of Justice put on a splendid show for this year’s Open House Festival, but we can’t help feeling that some visitors left with a slightly misleading impression of what goes on inside the walls of George Edmund Street’s Gothic masterpiece.

Some of the younger Gazette offspring enjoyed trying out police riot shields and helmets (pictured), though alas they weren’t allowed to join the judicial robes try-on: too heavy for little shoulders, apparently. 

RCJ open day

A particular highlight was a visit to the cells, which are just down the corridor from the press room. As contemptuous litigants have discovered over the years, they are Spartan even by criminal justice standards. There are no sanitary facilities at all, just a panic button for summoning a tipstaff as an escort to the lavatories.

We especially enjoyed the opportunity to take photos on the premises, though the courtrooms themselves remained out of bounds to snappers.

Well done to all involved for a memorable and well-organised experience. We can only hope the riot gear will remain out of sight until this time next year.

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