High Court and Administrative Court venues
Short answer: The High Court hears the most important and complex civil cases, and the Administrative Court hears judicial review claims against public bodies. It is not a criminal court. Choose a venue below for its address, then read your court letter for the room and time.
6 venues. Jump to the list of venues · About these courts · FAQs · Search every list by case reference
All 6 venues
London
- Royal Courts of Justice · WC2A 2LL
Other venues
About the High Court
The High Court deals with civil cases that are too large, too complex or too important for the county court. Judges here are senior, and hearings often involve experienced barristers. The main court buildings are the Royal Courts of Justice in London, with district registries in other cities, where hearings are heard locally.
The divisions of the High Court
The High Court is divided into three parts:
| Division | What it handles |
|---|---|
| King’s Bench | Large contract and personal injury claims, defamation and many other disputes. It includes the Administrative Court |
| Chancery | Business, property, insolvency, trusts and inheritance disputes |
| Family | The most complex family and children cases, including some involving international issues |
The Administrative Court
The Administrative Court is part of the King’s Bench Division. It hears judicial review claims, where someone argues that a public body, such as a government department, a council or an official, has acted unlawfully or unfairly. It does not decide whether a policy is good or bad, only whether it was lawful. It also hears some appeals on points of law.
Differences from other courts
- No jury in most cases, because a judge decides.
- Higher stakes, because cases often involve large sums or points of principle.
- More formal, with lawyers in court dress for many hearings.
- Strong public access, because most hearings are open.
What to expect on the day
Preparing for a High Court visit is much like attending any other court:
- Check your court letter for the building, court room and time.
- Allow time for security, which applies to everyone.
- Find your court using the lists on the screens. See finding your courtroom.
- Check in with the usher or the court clerk.
- Be prepared to wait, because lists can change.
Our security checks guide explains what to bring.
Parties and representatives
Many people in High Court cases are represented by solicitors and barristers because of the complexity. Some people do represent themselves, and the court will try to help them follow the process, although staff cannot give legal advice. If you are unrepresented, an advice charity or law centre may be able to help, and the court’s guidance for litigants in person can be useful.
Hearing lists
High Court hearings are listed in civil cause lists, published by HM Courts & Tribunals Service. Read about the Civil Daily Cause List. We link to the official service from each venue page, and we do not republish civil lists.
Watching and reporting
Most High Court hearings are open to the public, and journalists report on many of them. If you would like to watch, read the public gallery guide. Reporters should read our court reporting guide and check for reporting restrictions.
Other court directories
Smaller civil cases go to a county court. Serious criminal cases go to the Crown Court. Family cases may be heard in the Family Court. Use the court finder if you are not sure.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the High Court and a county court?
County courts deal with the majority of civil cases. The High Court deals with larger, more complex or more important claims and with some specialist work.
What is judicial review?
It is a type of case in which a court checks whether a public body, such as a government department or council, has acted lawfully. It is heard in the Administrative Court.
Can I watch a High Court hearing?
Most hearings are open to the public. Some are held in private, and seating may be limited. Ask the venue or check the list.
Where is the main High Court?
The Royal Courts of Justice on the Strand in London is the main home of the High Court, and the High Court also sits at district registries in other cities.