UK Court Listings

Courts in London

Short answer: London has the largest concentration of courts in England and Wales, including the Central Criminal Court (the Old Bailey), several Crown Courts across the capital, magistrates' courts, county courts and the High Court. Check the exact building on your letter, because several courts have similar names, and allow extra travel time.

Courts in London at a glance

Type of courtVenues
County Court13
Crown Court10
Family Court6
High Court1
Magistrates' Court14
Tribunal6

Crown Courts in London

Courts in London

London is the busiest area for courts in England and Wales. The capital is home to the world-famous Central Criminal Court, usually called the Old Bailey, as well as many other Crown Courts, magistrates’ courts, county courts, family courts and tribunals. The High Court is based at the Royal Courts of Justice on the Strand.

Because London is so large, courts are spread across many boroughs, and several have similar names. Always check the building named on your letter, not just the town or borough.

Which court deals with your case?

If your case is… It is usually heard in…
A less serious criminal case A magistrates’ court
A serious criminal case, tried with a jury A Crown Court
A civil dispute, such as a debt or housing claim A county court
A very large or complex civil claim The High Court
A family or children matter A family court

Getting to court in London

London’s public transport network makes most courts reachable without a car.

  • Underground, Overground and DLR: check the station nearest your court, and plan your route before you leave.
  • Elizabeth line and national rail: useful for courts on the edge of the city.
  • Buses: often the best option for the last part of the journey.
  • Driving: parking is scarce, and the Congestion Charge or ULEZ may apply.

Allow extra time for delays and for security queues, which can be long at busy courts. Our hearing day planner suggests when to arrive.

Busy courts, long days

London courts handle a high volume of cases. Magistrates’ courts often list dozens of hearings in a morning, and Crown Courts may have several trials in one building. Expect waiting, and bring something to read. If you are a defendant, read going to court as a defendant. If you are visiting, read what to expect at a Crown Court and security checks at court.

Watching a hearing in London

Many Londoners and visitors choose to watch a trial at the Old Bailey or another Crown Court. Public galleries can be busy, so arrive early. Our public gallery guide explains the rules.

Places and boroughs covered

London has 32 boroughs plus the City of London, and courts sit in many of them, from Croydon and Kingston in the south to Harrow and Wood Green in the north, Snaresbrook in the north-east and Woolwich in the south-east. A defendant’s case is usually dealt with in the court covering the area where the offence is alleged to have happened, so the nearest building to your home is not always the right one. Check your letter, and if you are unsure, phone the court.

Practical tips for London courts

  • Plan two routes. Delays on one line should not make you late.
  • Know the entrance. Large buildings sometimes have separate entrances for the public, jurors and lawyers.
  • Travel light. Fewer bags make security quicker.
  • Allow for lunch. Facilities near some courts are limited, and queues at lunchtime can be long.
  • Keep your receipts if you are a witness who can claim travel costs.

Hearing lists

Crown Court and magistrates’ court lists for London venues appear on the court pages. See how to read the Crown Daily List and the Magistrates Public List. The official service is always the authority.

All 50 venues in London

County Court

Crown Court

Family Court

High Court

Magistrates' Court

Tribunal

Frequently asked questions

How many Crown Courts are there in London?

London has a number of Crown Court centres, spread across the capital, including the Central Criminal Court. The list above shows the ones in our directory. Always use the address on your letter.

Is there parking at London courts?

Parking is limited or unavailable at most London courts, and charges such as the Congestion Charge or ULEZ may apply if you drive. Public transport is usually the easier option.

Which London court is the Old Bailey?

The Old Bailey is the popular name of the Central Criminal Court in the City of London, which hears some of the most serious criminal cases.