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Courtroom Trial

National Justice Museum, High Pavement, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG1 1HN

  • 13 Sep 2026
  • | In person
  • | Pre-booking preferred
  • | Performance

Our trial re-enactments are one of the highlights of our paid museum ticket. For Heritage Open Day, we’re delighted to open one of our rarely seen spaces to the public – our beautiful Civil Courtroom – for a family-friendly mock trial.

Our trial re-enactments in our Victorian Courtroom are one of the highlights of our paid museum ticket. For Heritage Open Day, we’re delighted to open one of our rarely seen spaces to the public – our beautiful Civil Courtroom – for a family-friendly mock trial.

In 1812, at the Nottingham Assizes, William Carnell and Joseph Maples were charged with burglary and entering a dwelling house, as well as for breaking stocking frames. At just 16 years old, Joseph Maples was one of the youngest people arrested for this offence.

Frame breaking occurred after the introduction of machinery known as stocking frames to the knitting industry left many skilled workers facing unemployment. The lack of support from industry and government resulted in many workers taking direct action and smashing stocking frames in protest.

This Heritage Open Day, take part in an interactive re-enactment of Maple’s trial, and find out for yourself how skilled labourers took the threat to their livelihood into their own hands – and how the justice system treated them.

Timings

Sunday 13 September:
1030, 1130, 1400 & 1500

Location & directions

National Justice Museum, High Pavement, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG1 1HN

Directions:
The National Justice Museum is located in the Lace Market area of Nottingham close to the train station, tram and bus stops, and city centre car parks. Visit our website for more information and directions.

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking preferred
Booking conditions:
Free, limited capacity so booking recommended
Booking telephone number:
+441159520555
Booking website:
https://www.nationaljusticemuseum.org.uk/museum/events/heritage-open-day-courtroom-trial

Accessibility details

We have made every effort to try and make our exhibitions, facilities and services as accessible as possible to all visitors. If you have specific access needs please ensure you contact us in advance so that we can help you make the most of your visit.

Additional information

Estimated duration:
30 hour(s)

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