Central Criminal Court

The Central Criminal Court, built between 1900 and 1907 by Mountford, is a large classical building made of Portland stone. It features three main storeys, with a rusticated ground storey that has round-arched openings and a central entrance adorned with carved figures above. There are two smaller entrances as well. The upper storeys are channelled and designed in the Ionic order. The main entablature is topped with a high blocking and balustrade. A central dome, covered in copper and resting on a square, rusticated base, is surrounded by an Ionic colonnade and topped with a stone lantern that bears a gilded figure of Justice. There is a short, bowed return to Newgate Street.

Inside, the court has large lower and upper halls, along with a central staircase finished in stone, marble, and alabaster. The interior features mosaic decoration and mural paintings by Gerald Moira, with sculptures by Pomeroy. The building houses an important collection of statues from various periods. Courts Nos 2 and 3 have been rebuilt since 1945, but the main original interiors have been carefully designed and preserved. There is also a modern extension to the south.