Two of the highest civil courts in the land sit in these imposing neo-Gothic buildings: the High Court and the Appeals Court, justice at its most bewigged and ermine-robed. Visitors are welcome to observe the process of law in any of the 88 courtrooms, but very little happens in August and September. There are also two-hour tours on the first and third Tuesday of the month (11am or 2pm; pre-book on 020 7947 7684 or rcjtours@btinternet.com). Cameras and children under 14 are not allowed on the premises.
For Open House London 2014 the Royal Courts of Justice will be open on Saturday September 20, 10am-4pm.